DRDO Scientist B Recruitment 2026: 152 Vacancies Through GATE, Salary Up to ₹1 Lakh Per Month

Last Updated: 16 June 2026

For thousands of engineering graduates, securing a Scientist position in DRDO is not just another government job—it’s an opportunity to contribute to India’s defence technologies, missile systems, fighter aircraft programmes, electronic warfare projects, artificial intelligence applications and next-generation military innovations.

If you possess a valid GATE score and a First Class Engineering or Science degree, the newly announced DRDO Scientist B Recruitment 2026 could be one of the biggest engineering recruitment opportunities of the year.

The Recruitment & Assessment Centre (RAC) has invited online applications for 152 Scientist B vacancies across the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA), Weapons & Electronics Systems Engineering Establishment (WESEE), College of Military Engineering (CME), Armed Forces Medical College (AFMC) and various defence establishments under the Ministry of Defence. Selected candidates will be appointed in Level-10 of the 7th CPC Pay Matrix with a basic pay of ₹56,100 and total monthly emoluments of approximately ₹1 lakh in metro cities.

The recruitment covers Electronics, Mechanical, Computer Science, Electrical, Aerospace, Chemical, Civil, Material Science, Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics and several other disciplines. Selection will be based on GATE score and Personal Interview, making it one of the most attractive opportunities currently available for engineering graduates.

Candidates preparing for GATE-based government jobs can also explore our Government Jobs Through GATE 2026 guide for similar opportunities.

Important Links

Important Dates

DRDO Scientist B Recruitment 2026 Overview

Graduates interested in banking careers may also explore SBI PO Recruitment 2026.

Why This DRDO Recruitment Is Special

Many engineering recruitment notifications offer attractive salaries. Very few offer the opportunity to work on projects that directly influence India’s defence capabilities.

DRDO is India’s premier defence research organisation and is responsible for developing technologies related to:

• Missile Systems
• Radar Technologies
• Electronic Warfare Systems
• Unmanned Aerial Vehicles
• Artificial Intelligence Applications
• Cyber Security
• Naval Systems
• Combat Vehicles
• Aerospace Technologies
• Advanced Materials

Similarly, the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) is responsible for major aircraft development programmes including the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) programme.

For candidates who want a research-oriented engineering career instead of a conventional corporate role, this recruitment deserves serious consideration.

Similar high-value engineering opportunities are regularly covered in our Government Jobs for Engineers 2026 and Technical Government Jobs 2026 guides.

Vacancy Details

A total of 152 vacancies have been announced across DRDO and other defence establishments.

Organization-Wise Vacancy Distribution

Electronics Engineering candidates should also read our detailed DRDO Scientist B Electronics Recruitment 2026 guide covering eligibility, GATE requirements and vacancy analysis.

Discipline-Wise Vacancy Details

The highest number of vacancies have been announced for core engineering disciplines.

Electronics engineers can also explore other opportunities listed in our Government Jobs for Electronics Engineers 2026 guide.

Which Branch Has the Highest Vacancies?

Candidates from the following branches have the strongest opportunities:

✅ Electronics & Communication Engineering

✅ Mechanical Engineering

✅ Computer Science Engineering

Together, these three disciplines account for more than 100 vacancies in the recruitment process.

Candidates from these branches may also find opportunities listed in our:

• Government Jobs for Electronics Engineers 2026
• Government Jobs for Mechanical Engineers 2026
• Government Jobs for Engineers 2026

guides.

Quick Eligibility Check

You are likely eligible for DRDO Scientist B Recruitment 2026 if:

✅ You possess a First Class Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering/Technology or a First Class Master’s Degree in Science in the relevant discipline.

✅ You have a valid GATE score from 2023, 2024 or 2025.

✅ You satisfy the prescribed age limit.

✅ Your degree discipline matches the discipline advertised in the notification.

If you meet these four conditions, this recruitment deserves serious consideration.

DRDO Scientist B Recruitment 2026 Eligibility Criteria

Before applying, candidates should carefully verify both the educational qualification and GATE requirements applicable to their discipline.

Educational Qualification

Candidates must possess at least a First Class Degree in the relevant discipline.

Accepted qualifications include:

• B.E.
• B.Tech.
• Engineering Degree in Relevant Discipline
• M.Sc. (For Science Disciplines)
• Equivalent Qualification Recognised by Government of India

Final year students awaiting results may also apply, subject to fulfilling the conditions specified in the notification.

GATE Requirement

One of the most important eligibility conditions is a valid GATE score.

Accepted GATE years:

• GATE 2023
• GATE 2024
• GATE 2025

Candidates must possess a GATE score corresponding to their discipline.

Major Eligible Disciplines

Candidates looking specifically for GATE-based opportunities can also explore our Government Jobs Through GATE 2026 guide.

Age Limit

The upper age limit is calculated as on the closing date of the application.

Additional Age Relaxation

Relaxation is also available for:

• Persons with Benchmark Disabilities (PwBD)
• Ex-Servicemen
• Central Government Employees

as per Government of India rules.

Application Fee

The application fee is non-refundable and must be paid online.

Salary and Benefits

One of the biggest attractions of this recruitment is the salary package.

Salary Structure

The approximate monthly salary can reach around ₹1 lakh per month in metro cities, making it one of the highest-paying government opportunities for fresh engineering graduates.

Selection Process

The selection process consists of two stages.

Stage 1: GATE-Based Shortlisting

Eligible candidates will be shortlisted based on their GATE scores.

Generally, candidates are shortlisted in the ratio of 1:10 against available vacancies.

Stage 2: Personal Interview

Shortlisted candidates will be invited for a Personal Interview.

The interview may be conducted in Delhi or any other location decided by RAC.

Final Selection Criteria

The final merit list is prepared using:

This means your GATE performance plays a major role in final selection.

Candidates must also secure the minimum qualifying marks prescribed in the interview stage.

Documents Required

Candidates should keep the following documents ready before filling the application form:

• Recent Passport Size Photograph
• Signature
• Class 10 Certificate (Date of Birth Proof)
• Degree Certificate
• Semester-wise Mark Sheets
• GATE Scorecard
• GATE Result Screenshot
• Category Certificate (if applicable)
• EWS Certificate (if applicable)
• PwBD Certificate (if applicable)
• Ex-Serviceman Certificate (if applicable)
• NOC / Intimation Letter (for Government Employees)

How to Apply for DRDO Scientist B Recruitment 2026

Eligible candidates can apply online through the RAC portal.

Step-by-Step Process

1. Visit the RAC official website.
2. Complete online registration.
3. Log in using your credentials.
4. Fill personal and educational details.
5. Enter GATE score details carefully.
6. Upload required documents.
7. Pay the application fee (if applicable).
8. Review all details carefully.
9. Lock and submit the application form.
10. Download and save the final application form for future reference.

Important Note

Only locked/finalised applications will be considered for recruitment. Candidates should verify all details carefully before final submission.

Why GATE Candidates Should Not Ignore This Recruitment

Every year, thousands of engineering graduates prepare for GATE with the hope of securing a PSU job or admission to prestigious institutes. However, many candidates overlook DRDO Scientist B recruitment despite it being one of the most rewarding career opportunities available through GATE.

Unlike many government jobs that focus on operations or administration, DRDO Scientist B positions allow candidates to work on:

• Missile and Defence Systems
• Aerospace Technologies
• Artificial Intelligence Applications
• Cyber Security Solutions
• Electronic Warfare Systems
• Radar Technologies
• Advanced Materials
• Naval Defence Projects
• Military Communication Systems

For candidates seeking a career that combines technology, research and national service, DRDO offers a unique opportunity.

Why DRDO Is Considered a Dream Organisation for Engineers

DRDO is India’s premier defence research organisation and plays a critical role in strengthening the country’s defence capabilities.

Some of India’s most important indigenous defence technologies have been developed with contributions from DRDO scientists.

Working as a Scientist B provides:

• Exposure to advanced technologies
• Research-oriented work environment
• Stable Government Career
• Opportunities for higher studies and research
• Competitive salary and allowances
• Career progression within DRDO

For engineering graduates who want to work on meaningful projects rather than routine corporate assignments, DRDO remains one of the most prestigious employers in India.

Career Growth After Joining as Scientist B

Many candidates focus only on the starting salary while ignoring long-term career growth.

A Scientist B can progress through multiple levels during service:

As responsibilities increase, salary and benefits also improve significantly.

Candidates interested in long-term defence research careers may also explore DRDO RAC Scientist Recruitment 2026.

Is This Recruitment Suitable for Freshers?

Yes.

This is one of the few high-paying government recruitments where fresh engineering graduates with valid GATE scores can directly compete for Group ‘A’ Gazetted Scientist positions.

Freshers possessing:

• Strong GATE Scores
• First Class Degree
• Good Technical Knowledge

have a realistic chance of selection.

Related Opportunities

Candidates interested in DRDO Scientist B Recruitment 2026 may also explore:

• Government Jobs Through GATE 2026
• Government Jobs for Engineers 2026
• Government Jobs After BTech 2026
• Technical Government Jobs 2026
• Government Jobs for Mechanical Engineers 2026
• Government Jobs for Electronics Engineers 2026
• Government Jobs for Electrical Engineers 2026
• Defence Jobs 2026

Quick Access Links

FAQs : DRDO RAC Recruitment 2026

What is the total number of vacancies in DRDO Scientist B Recruitment 2026?

A total of 152 vacancies have been announced across DRDO, ADA, WESEE, CME, AFMC and other defence establishments.

What is the salary of a DRDO Scientist B?

Selected candidates will be placed in Level-10 of the 7th CPC Pay Matrix with a basic pay of ₹56,100 and total monthly emoluments of approximately ₹1 lakh in metro cities.

Is GATE mandatory for DRDO Scientist B Recruitment 2026?

Yes. Candidates must possess a valid GATE score in the relevant discipline to be considered for recruitment.

Which GATE scores are accepted?

Valid GATE scores from:

• GATE 2023
• GATE 2024
• GATE 2025

are accepted.

Can final-year engineering students apply?

Yes. Candidates appearing in their final semester examinations may apply subject to the conditions mentioned in the notification.

What is the age limit for DRDO Scientist B Recruitment 2026?

The upper age limit is:

• 35 Years for UR/EWS
• 38 Years for OBC
• 40 Years for SC/ST

with additional relaxations as per Government rules.

What is the application fee?

General, EWS and OBC male candidates must pay ₹100.

SC, ST, PwBD and women candidates are exempted from payment of application fee.

How are candidates selected?

Selection is based on:

1. GATE-based shortlisting
2. Personal Interview

What is the weightage of GATE score in final selection?

The final merit is prepared using:

• 80% GATE Score
• 20% Interview Marks

Which engineering branches have the highest vacancies?

The highest vacancies have been announced for:

• Electronics & Communication Engineering
• Mechanical Engineering
• Computer Science Engineering

Computer Science graduates looking for public-sector technology careers should also check our Government Jobs After BTech 2026 guide.

Computer Science graduates should also read our detailed DRDO Scientist B Computer Science Recruitment 2026 guide covering eligibility, GATE CS requirements, interview topics and technology domains.

Can candidates from Electrical Engineering apply?

Yes. Separate vacancies have been announced for Electrical Engineering candidates.

Is DRDO Scientist B a permanent government job?

Yes. Scientist B is a Group ‘A’ Gazetted post under the Government of India and offers long-term career growth opportunities.

Candidates interested in similar opportunities can explore our guide on Top 10 Government Research Jobs in India 2026.

Final Thoughts

The DRDO Scientist B Recruitment 2026 is one of the most significant engineering recruitment drives currently open for GATE-qualified candidates. With 152 vacancies, a starting package of approximately ₹1 lakh per month, opportunities across multiple engineering disciplines and the chance to work on technologies critical to India’s defence capabilities, this recruitment stands out among government engineering jobs announced this year.

Candidates with strong GATE scores should not delay their applications. Given the prestige of DRDO and the attractive salary package, competition is expected to be intense. Ensure that your application is submitted well before the closing date and that all required documents are uploaded correctly.

For candidates aiming to build a research-oriented engineering career while contributing to national defence projects, this recruitment could be a career-defining opportunity.