C-DAC Recruitment 2026: Career Guide & Vacancy Details

About C-DAC Careers

🏛️ Organization Overview

C-DAC is the heartbeat of India's high-end computing ecosystem. Established in 1988 to build indigenous supercomputers after India was denied access to foreign technology, it has since expanded its horizons into Multilingual Computing, Professional Electronics, VLSI Design, and Health Informatics. With its flagship PARAM supercomputing program, C-DAC is currently leading the National Supercomputing Mission (NSM), positioning India as a global leader in massive data processing and simulation.

Beyond research, C-DAC operates as a bridge between academia and industry. It has a massive regional presence with specialized centers in cities like Bengaluru (Real-time systems), Hyderabad (e-Security), and Thiruvananthapuram (Power Electronics). Working at C-DAC means contributing to "Digital India" initiatives that impact millions, from the Aadhaar search engine to the e-Sanjeevani teleconsultation platform.

💼 Key Job Profiles (Evergreen Roles)

• Scientist 'B' / 'C' (S&T Group): The core research profile responsible for designing algorithms, hardware architectures (like RISC-V), and AI models. These roles typically require a B.E./B.Tech or M.E./M.Tech.
• Project Engineer: Contract-based specialized roles focusing on time-bound mission-critical projects such as 5G testbeds or Quantum communication links.
• Technical Assistant: Provides crucial support in laboratory testing, hardware maintenance, and software deployment at various C-DAC data centers.
• Knowledge Associate: Focuses on the "Education & Training" wing, helping develop and deliver C-DAC’s world-renowned PG Diploma courses.

💰 Salary & Employee Benefits

C-DAC follows the 7th Central Pay Commission (CPC) structure for its regular scientific and administrative staff. With the anticipated discussions around the 8th Pay Commission in 2026, employees can expect significant revisions in basic pay and allowances.

• Pay Scales: Entry-level Scientists (Level-10) start with a basic pay of ₹56,100, while Senior positions (Level-13/14) can reach up to ₹2,18,200.
• Allowances: Standard Central Government perks including Dearness Allowance (DA), House Rent Allowance (HRA) ranging from 9% to 27% based on city category, and Transport Allowance.
• Other Perks: C-DAC provides excellent medical reimbursement (OPD/IPD), Leave Travel Concession (LTC), Children Education Allowance, and subsidized canteen facilities.

🎯 Selection Process

The recruitment at C-DAC is highly merit-based and varies depending on the nature of the post:

1. Screening: Applications are initially filtered based on academic consistency and relevance of the qualifying degree (usually 60% or above).
2. Written Test / C-CAT: For many technical roles, candidates must clear a written examination covering General Aptitude, Computing Fundamentals, and Domain Knowledge (OS, Data Structures, Networking).
3. Technical Interview: Shortlisted candidates face a panel of senior scientists to test deep technical expertise and problem-solving abilities.
4. Document Verification & Medical: Final stage involves verifying original credentials and a standard fitness check.

💡 Expert Tips: How to Crack C-DAC Exams

• Master the Fundamentals: C-DAC's tests (like Section B of C-CAT) focus heavily on C programming, Data Structures, and Operating Systems. Use standard textbooks like Galvin for OS and Kanetkar for C.
• GATE Alignment: If you are preparing for GATE 2026, you are already 80% ready for the C-DAC Scientist 'B' entrance. Focus on applying theoretical concepts to real-world R&D scenarios.
• Project Portfolio: During interviews, C-DAC panels highly value candidates who have worked on Linux kernels, Open Source software, or hardware prototyping. Be prepared to explain your final year project in microscopic detail.