Central Administrative Tribunal (CAT) Recruitment 2026: Career Guide & Vacancy Details

Organization Overview

CAT operates through 19 Benches and 21 Circuit Benches across India, with its Principal Bench in New Delhi. It is headed by a Chairman (usually a retired High Court Judge) and consists of both Judicial and Administrative Members. Working at CAT offers a unique legal-administrative environment, as the tribunal handles cases for over 215 notified central government organizations and PSUs. The staff plays a critical role in case management, legal research, and the smooth execution of tribunal proceedings.

Key Job Profiles (2026)

• Assistant Section Officer (ASO): Recruited via SSC CGL. Handles administrative files and assists the Registrar. Requires a Bachelor’s degree.
• Private Secretary (PS) & Stenographer: Critical for recording court proceedings and drafting orders. Requires high-speed shorthand (100 w.p.m.) and computer proficiency.
• Court Master: Manages the daily cause list and court decorum. Requires a degree (Law preferred) and is often filled via promotion or deputation.
• Registrar / Joint Registrar: Senior roles responsible for the judicial administration of a bench. Typically filled by officers on deputation from the Central/State Government or High Courts.
• Administrative Member: High-level appointments for officers with Additional Secretary rank or equivalent experience.

Salary & Benefits

CAT staff are central government employees governed by the 7th CPC pay matrix:

• Group A (Registrar/Member): Pay Level 12 to 14 (₹78,800 – ₹2,18,200).
• Group B (ASO/Private Secretary): Pay Level 7 or 8 (₹44,900 – ₹1,51,100).
• Group C (Steno/MTS/Junior Assistant): Pay Level 2 to 4 (₹19,900 – ₹81,100).
• Contractual Consultants: Remuneration for retired staff is typically "Last Pay Drawn minus Basic Pension."

Selection Process

1. Direct Recruitment (SSC CGL): A two-tier Computer Based Examination followed by document verification for non-gazetted posts.
2. Deputation: Selection based on Bio-data, APAR scores (last 5 years), and personal interaction for officers from other departments.
3. Skill Tests: Mandatory shorthand and typing tests for Stenographer and Court Master categories (e.g., LDCE 2024/2026 cycles).

• Legal Terminology: For Court Master and PS roles, familiarize yourself with the Administrative Tribunals Act, 1985 and CAT (Procedure) Rules, 1987.
• Stenography Speed: Consistently practice shorthand at 100+ w.p.m. as the skill test is the primary eliminator for stenography-heavy roles.
• Administrative Proficiency: For ASO positions via SSC, focus on General Intelligence and Quantitative Aptitude, as cutoffs for "Other Ministries" (including CAT) are competitive.
• Internship Experience: Law students should consider the unpaid internship program at CAT benches to gain practical insights into administrative law, which is highly valued during interviews.