Last Updated: 07 August 2026 | Job Source: Official ADA Notification (ADA:ADV-138:2026) | Published On: GovtJobDeck.com | Reading Time: 7 minutes
If you are an engineering graduate looking for a stable and respected career in India’s defence and aerospace sector, this is the opportunity you have been waiting for. The Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA), a premier defence R&D laboratory under the Ministry of Defence, has released a fresh recruitment notice for 111 Project Assistant-I positions. The notification invites online registration followed by offline written test and interview for posts across Computer Science, Electronics, Aeronautical, Electrical, Mechanical, Metallurgy, and Civil Engineering disciplines.
This recruitment falls under Advertisement No. ADA:ADV-138:2026. ADA is the backbone of India’s indigenous combat aircraft program. It designs, develops, and integrates fighter jets such as the LCA Tejas and its variants. Working here means you are directly contributing to the country’s defence capabilities while building a secure career in central government defence jobs.
Candidates from core engineering branches with a First Class degree can apply. GATE-qualified candidates get direct interview shortlisting, while others appear for a written test. If you want to explore more options in the engineering domain, you can also check our dedicated page for engineering government jobs. We also update all fresh openings daily on our latest government jobs 2026 page, so you never miss an update.
ADA Recruitment 2026 at a Glance
- Organization: Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA)
- Total Vacancies: 111
- Post: Project Assistant-I
- Qualification: First Class B.E./B.Tech / M.E./M.Tech / M.Sc (as applicable)
- Salary: Rs. 31,000–37,000 + HRA
- Selection: Written Test / Direct Interview
- Last Date: 13 August 2026
- Job Location: Bangalore
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Recruitment Organization | Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA), Ministry of Defence, Govt. of India |
| Advt. Number | ADA:ADV-138:2026 |
| Post Names | Project Assistant-I |
| Total Vacancies | 111 Posts |
| Job Type | Central Government (Defence R&D) |
| Application Mode | Online Registration + Offline Written Test / Interview |
| Online Application Starts | 03 August 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply | 13 August 2026 (1700 hrs) |
| Application Portal | ada.gov.in |
| Corrigendum/Updates | Only on ADA official website |
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Important Link
| Description | Link / Action |
|---|---|
| Official Website | www.ada.gov.in |
| Apply Online | Available on official website |
| Short Notification PDF | Download from DRDO website |
| Detailed Notification | Available on ada.gov.in |
About ADA
The Aeronautical Development Agency is a premier laboratory under the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). It spearheads the design and development of advanced combat aircraft, including the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas program. Joining ADA as a Project Assistant gives you hands-on exposure to cutting-edge aerospace and defence technology. It is an ideal launchpad for engineers aiming to build a long-term career in defence research and development.
Is ADA Recruitment 2026 Worth Applying For?
ADA Recruitment 2026 is an excellent opportunity for engineering graduates who want to work in India’s defence research sector. Candidates with strong academic records, GATE qualifications, or relevant technical experience can gain valuable exposure by working on advanced aerospace projects. Even though the engagement is project-based, the experience can strengthen future applications for DRDO, ISRO, HAL, BEL, PSUs, and higher research opportunities.
ADA Recruitment 2026 Important Dates
| Event | Date & Time |
|---|---|
| Short Notice Released | 03 August 2026 |
| Online Registration Starts | 03 August 2026 |
| Last Date to Register Online | 13 August 2026 (1700 hrs) |
| Written Test Date (Tentative) | 16 August 2026 / 23 August 2026 / 30 August 2026 |
| Interview Date | To be announced |
| Result Declaration | To be announced |
ADA Recruitment 2026 Vacancy Details
Post: Project Assistant-I (111 Vacancies)
| Discipline / Subject | Total Vacancies |
|---|---|
| Computer Science Engineering | 15 |
| Electronics & Communication Engineering | 20 |
| Aeronautical Engineering | 10 |
| Electrical & Electronics Engineering | 20 |
| Mechanical Engineering | 43 |
| Metallurgy Engineering | 1 |
| Civil Engineering | 2 |
| Total | 111 |
Abbreviations: SC – Scheduled Caste; ST – Scheduled Tribe; OBC (NCL) – Other Backward Classes (Non-Creamy Layer); EWS – Economically Weaker Sections; UR – Unreserved.
Key Observations:
- Mechanical Engineering dominates the recruitment with 43 vacancies, making it the highest intake discipline.
- Electronics & Communication and Electrical & Electronics together account for 40 posts.
- GATE-qualified B.E/B.Tech holders and IIT/NIT M.E/M.Tech graduates are exempt from the written test and shortlisted directly for interview.
- Metallurgy and Civil Engineering have the lowest intake with just 1 and 2 vacancies respectively.
- Candidates looking for core mechanical roles can explore more options on our government jobs for mechanical engineers 2026 page. Electronics aspirants should check government jobs for electronics engineers 2026. All B.Tech graduates can browse government jobs after B.Tech 2026.
ADA Recruitment 2026 Eligibility Criteria
Educational Qualification
| Post | Expected Qualification |
|---|---|
| Project Assistant-I | B.E/B.Tech (First Class) with valid GATE Score; OR M.E/M.Tech from IIT/NIT; OR B.Sc + M.Sc with valid GATE/NET Score; OR B.E/B.Tech with M.E/M.Tech; OR B.E/B.Tech with 2 years relevant experience; OR B.Sc + M.Sc with 2 years relevant experience; OR B.E/B.Tech (First Class) |
Important: Candidates must ensure their degree branch matches exactly with the discipline listed for the post. If your degree specialization is not listed under a particular post, your application may get rejected at any stage.
Age Limit (Expected)
| Category | Expected Upper Age Limit |
|---|---|
| General / EWS | 28 Years |
| OBC (Non-Creamy Layer) | 31 Years |
| SC / ST | 33 Years |
| PwBD | As per government norms |
The final age limit, cut-off date, and relaxation rules will be clearly mentioned in the detailed notification. Always cross-check with the official PDF before applying.
Who Should Apply for ADA Recruitment 2026?
This recruitment is suitable for:
- Mechanical Engineering graduates
- Electronics & Communication engineers
- Computer Science graduates
- Electrical Engineering candidates
- Aeronautical Engineering graduates
- Fresh B.Tech graduates with First Class
- Candidates holding valid GATE scores
- IIT and NIT M.Tech graduates
- Candidates looking for DRDO and Defence Research careers
ADA Project Assistant Salary 2026
ADA offers a competitive stipend for Project Assistant roles with House Rent Allowance.
- For B.E/B.Tech (First Class) only: Rs. 31,000 per month + HRA as per rules.
- For all other candidates: Rs. 37,000 per month + HRA as per rules.
- Tenure: Initially for a period of two years, which may be extended for a further two years (one year at a time) subject to satisfactory performance.
- Additional Benefits: HRA as per government norms, exposure to defence R&D projects, and potential career progression within DRDO labs.
Why Choose ADA as Your Career?
ADA is one of India’s premier defence research organisations responsible for developing advanced fighter aircraft such as the LCA Tejas. Working as a Project Assistant provides exposure to real defence research projects, experienced scientists, modern laboratories, and future career opportunities in DRDO laboratories, ISRO, HAL, BEL, and other government research organisations.
ADA vs DRDO vs ISRO Jobs
| Organisation | Salary | Selection | Nature |
|---|---|---|---|
| ADA | Rs.31,000–37,000 | Test/Interview | Project Research |
| DRDO | Level-10 | GATE + Interview | Permanent Scientist |
| ISRO | Level-10 | Written Test | Scientist/Engineer |
ADA Recruitment 2026 Selection Process
- Online Registration: Candidates must register on ada.gov.in by 13 August 2026. Registration is mandatory to plan logistics but is not the final application.
- Written Test: Candidates without GATE/NET or IIT/NIT degrees will appear for a written test. The syllabus is same as GATE and includes negative marking for wrong answers. Tentative dates are 16, 23, or 30 August 2026 in Bangalore.
- Interview: GATE-qualified candidates and IIT/NIT post-graduates are shortlisted directly for interview. Other candidates appear for interview after clearing the written test.
- Document Verification: Original certificates, GATE/NET scorecards, experience proof, caste certificate, and Aadhar Card must be produced.
- Medical Examination: As per ADA norms.
Candidates are advised to start preparing for the GATE-level syllabus immediately. Scientific calculators are permitted for the written test. Explore more technical government jobs 2026 to keep your options open.
How to Apply Online for ADA Recruitment 2026
Applications will be accepted only through online registration followed by offline document submission. No offline or email applications will be considered for initial registration.
Step 1: Visit the official website – ada.gov.in
Step 2: Click on the “Careers” or “Recruitment” section.
Step 3: Find and open the recruitment link for Advt. No. ADA:ADV-138:2026 – Project Assistant-I.
Step 4: Read the detailed advertisement completely before proceeding.
Step 5: Register online using a valid email ID and mobile number.
Step 6: Download and print the application format provided in the notification.
Step 7: Fill in the application form with your personal details, educational qualifications, and discipline preference.
Step 8: Attach self-attested copies of certificates, GATE/NET scorecard, experience proof, caste certificate, and Aadhar Card.
Step 9: Affix a recent passport size photograph on the right top corner of the first page.
Step 10: Report for the written test / interview at Bangalore with the duly filled form and all original documents.
Pro Tip: Do not wait until 13 August 2026 to register. Defence R&D portals often face heavy traffic on the last day. Complete your registration at least 2-3 days before the deadline.
Documents Required
- Recent Passport Size Photograph
- Aadhaar Card
- Engineering Degree Certificates
- Mark Sheets
- GATE/NET Scorecard (if applicable)
- Experience Certificate (if applicable)
- Caste Certificate
- PwBD Certificate (if applicable)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Waiting until the last date for registration.
- Choosing the wrong engineering discipline.
- Uploading incomplete documents.
- Ignoring GATE score details.
- Reporting without original certificates.
Quick Access Link
| Description | Link / Action |
|---|---|
| Official Website | www.ada.gov.in |
| Apply Online | Available on official website |
| Short Notification PDF | Download from DRDO website |
| Detailed Notification | Available on ada.gov.in |
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Get Instant Job Alerts →Related Opportunities You Should Not Miss
If you are targeting ADA, you should also explore these related defence and central government openings for engineering candidates:
- DRDO Scientist B Recruitment 2026 – Permanent scientific posts across DRDO labs for B.Tech and M.Tech holders.
- HAL Recruitment 2026 – Management Trainee and Design Trainee vacancies in India’s aerospace Maharatna.
- BEL Trainee Engineer Recruitment 2026 – Navratna PSU openings for electronics and mechanical engineers.
- ISRO Scientist Engineer Recruitment 2026 – Premier space research organization vacancies for engineering graduates.
- PSU Engineering Jobs 2026 – All current PSU openings for engineers in one place.
- Government Jobs After B.Tech 2026 – Core technical and administrative roles across government departments.
- Technical Government Jobs 2026 – Core technical roles across central and state government departments.
- Government Jobs Through GATE 2026 – PSU and research openings that accept valid GATE scores.
- DRDO Internship 2026 – Paid internship opportunities for engineering students at DRDO labs.
- Government Jobs for Mechanical Engineers 2026 – Dedicated page for mechanical engineering government vacancies.
ADA Recruitment 2026 – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the last date to apply for ADA Recruitment 2026?
The last date for online registration is 13 August 2026 up to 1700 hrs. No registrations will be accepted after this time.
How many vacancies are available in ADA Recruitment 2026?
There are 111 total vacancies for Project Assistant-I across seven engineering disciplines.
What is the advertisement number?
The advertisement number is ADA:ADV-138:2026.
Which branches are eligible for ADA Project Assistant?
Eligible branches include Computer Science, Electronics & Communication, Aeronautical, Electrical & Electronics, Mechanical, Metallurgy, and Civil Engineering. Equivalent branches are also acceptable as per Table-A.
What is the salary of ADA Project Assistant?
The stipend is Rs. 31,000 per month for B.E/B.Tech-only candidates and Rs. 37,000 per month for all other candidates, plus HRA as per rules.
What is the official website of ADA?
The official website is ada.gov.in.
How to apply online for ADA Project Assistant?
Register online on ada.gov.in, download the application form, fill it, attach documents, and report for the written test or interview in Bangalore with originals.
Where to download the ADA notification PDF?
You can download the official notification from the DRDO website direct link or from ada.gov.in.
Can Civil Engineering students apply for ADA Project Assistant?
Yes. Civil Engineering candidates can apply for the 2 vacancies under Structural Engineering equivalence.
Is GATE required for ADA Project Assistant?
GATE is not mandatory but highly beneficial. GATE-qualified candidates are shortlisted directly for interview without a written test.
Can final year students apply?
No. Candidates must have completed their degree and obtained a First Class qualification before the closing date of 13 August 2026.
What is the selection process?
The process includes online registration, followed by either a direct interview (for GATE/IIT/NIT candidates) or a written test followed by interview (for others), and document verification.
What is themaximum age limit for ADA Recruitment 2026?
The upper age limit is 28 years for General/EWS candidates, with relaxations for OBC, SC, ST, and PwBD as per government norms.
What documents are needed for ADA interview?
You need the duly filled application form, original and self-attested copies of educational certificates, GATE/NET scorecard, experience proof, caste certificate, Aadhar Card, and passport size photographs.
How long is the tenure?
The initial tenure is two years, extendable by another two years based on performance review.
Will accommodation be provided?
The notification does not mention accommodation. Candidates must make their own arrangements in Bangalore.
Can I edit the form after submission?
Online registration details may not be editable after submission. Ensure all details are correct before finalizing.
How to prepare for the ADA written test?
Prepare using GATE syllabus for your respective engineering discipline. Practice numerical problems and bring a scientific calculator. Negative marking applies.
Is there negative marking in the ADA written test?
Yes. The written exam has negative marking for wrong answers.
Where can I find more GATE-based government jobs?
Browse our complete list of government jobs through GATE 2026 for regular updates on PSU and research vacancies.
Is experience mandatory for ADA Project Assistant Recruitment 2026?
No. Experience is not mandatory for all candidates. Fresh engineering graduates with the required First Class qualification can also apply. However, candidates with relevant work experience may be eligible under the experience-based qualification criteria mentioned in the official notification.
Is ADA Project Assistant a permanent government job?
No. The Project Assistant-I position is contract-based. The initial tenure is two years, which may be extended for another two years based on project requirements and satisfactory performance.
Can diploma holders apply for ADA Recruitment 2026?
No. Diploma holders are not eligible for the Project Assistant-I post. Candidates must possess the educational qualifications specified in the official notification, such as First Class B.E./B.Tech, M.E./M.Tech, or other eligible qualifications.
Is there any application fee for ADA Recruitment 2026?
The official notification does not mention any application fee for online registration. Candidates should regularly check the official ADA website for any updates or corrigenda before completing the registration process.
Can candidates from private engineering colleges apply?
Yes. Candidates who have completed the required qualification from a recognized university or institution, including private engineering colleges approved by the competent authority, can apply if they satisfy all eligibility conditions mentioned in the notification.
Can candidates apply for more than one engineering discipline?
Candidates should apply only for the discipline that matches their educational qualification. If a candidate is eligible for multiple disciplines, they should follow the instructions provided in the official notification regarding multiple applications.
What career opportunities are available after working as an ADA Project Assistant?
Working at ADA provides valuable experience in India’s defence and aerospace research sector. The experience can strengthen future applications for DRDO, ISRO, HAL, BEL, PSUs, research laboratories, and higher technical studies, while also enhancing practical knowledge of advanced engineering projects.
