Government Agricultural Engineer Jobs 2026: Key Highlights
| Job Role |
Agricultural Engineer |
|---|
| Recruiting Bodies |
Department of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, State Agriculture Departments, ICAR institutes, Agricultural Universities, State Irrigation Departments, PSUs (e.g., National Fertilizers Limited). |
|---|
| Usual Age Limit |
21-35 years (Relaxable for reserved categories as per government norms). |
|---|
| Salary Range |
Pay Level-6 to Pay Level-10 (Approx. Rs. 35,400 - Rs. 1,12,400 per month, plus allowances). |
|---|
Job Profile & Responsibilities
Government Agricultural Engineers are responsible for applying engineering principles to agriculture. Their duties often include:
- Design and development of farm machinery and equipment.
- Planning and supervising the construction of agricultural structures like irrigation systems, storage facilities, and farm buildings.
- Implementing soil and water conservation techniques.
- Developing and managing efficient irrigation and drainage systems.
- Advising farmers on the adoption of new technologies and sustainable farming practices.
- Ensuring compliance with environmental regulations in agricultural operations.
- Working on research and development projects related to agricultural mechanization and technology.
- Overseeing the procurement and maintenance of agricultural machinery.
Eligibility Criteria (Detailed)
Candidates aspiring for government Agricultural Engineer roles must meet specific criteria:
- Educational Qualification: A Bachelor's degree (B.Tech/B.E.) in Agricultural Engineering from a recognized university or institution. Some posts may require a Master's degree.
- Technical Skills: Proficiency in CAD software, knowledge of farm machinery, irrigation techniques, and understanding of agricultural economics.
- Age Limit: Typically between 21 to 35 years. Age relaxations are applicable for SC/ST, OBC, and PWD candidates as per government rules. For example, SC/ST candidates may get up to 5 years relaxation, and OBC candidates up to 3 years.
- Nationality: Must be a citizen of India.
Selection Process & Exam Pattern
The selection process typically involves multiple stages:
- Written Examination: This is usually the primary stage, comprising Objective-Type Multiple Choice Questions. The syllabus generally covers:
- Agricultural Engineering Basics: Farm Power and Machinery, Soil and Water Conservation Engineering, Irrigation and Drainage Engineering, Agricultural Processing and Storage Engineering.
- General Aptitude/Awareness: Reasoning, Quantitative Aptitude, English, and General Knowledge related to agriculture and socio-economic issues.
The exam pattern often includes sectional cut-offs and negative marking.
- Interview/Personality Test: Candidates who qualify in the written examination are shortlisted for an interview to assess their domain knowledge, communication skills, and suitability for the role.
Note: Some specific recruitment exams might include a Skill Test or a practical demonstration depending on the nature of the role.
Salary Structure & Allowances
Government Agricultural Engineers are typically appointed in Pay Levels set by the Central or State Government. For 2026, the salary structure is expected to be:
- Basic Pay: Ranges from approximately Rs. 35,400 (Pay Level-6) to Rs. 1,12,400 (Pay Level-10) per month, depending on the specific post and department.
- Allowances: In addition to basic pay, they receive Dearness Allowance (DA), House Rent Allowance (HRA), Travel Allowance (TA), and other applicable allowances as per government regulations.
- Grade Pay: Often factored into the basic pay structure.
How to Apply
Government Agricultural Engineer vacancies are announced through notifications released by various recruiting bodies. Candidates should regularly check the official websites of:
- Union Public Service Commission (UPSC): For central government posts.
- Staff Selection Commission (SSC): Though less common for specialized roles, it might advertise some general posts.
- Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR): For research and administrative positions in its institutes.
- State Public Service Commissions (SPSCs): For state-level agriculture department roles.
- State Agriculture Departments: Direct recruitment notifications are often posted on their respective official portals.
- Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs): Visit the 'Careers' section of their official websites.
The application process usually involves online registration, filling in personal and educational details, uploading documents, and paying the application fee.
Preparation Tips for Agricultural Engineer Exams
- Thoroughly study the syllabus: Focus on core Agricultural Engineering subjects.
- Refer to standard textbooks: Books by ISAE publications are highly recommended.
- Practice previous year papers: Understand the exam pattern and question types.
- Stay updated: Keep abreast of current developments in agricultural technology and government schemes related to agriculture.
- Mock Tests: Take online mock tests to improve time management and accuracy.