CPWD Recruitment 2026: Latest Vacancies, Syllabus & Exam Pattern

The Central Public Works Department (CPWD) is a pivotal organization under the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, Government of India. It undertakes construction and maintenance projects nationwide, creating ample job opportunities. For those seeking government employment in 2026, understanding the recruitment for CPWD is essential.

Key Highlights for CPWD Recruitment 2026

Job Profile & Responsibilities

CPWD typically recruits for roles like Assistant Engineer (Civil/Electrical), Junior Engineer (Civil/Electrical), Assistant Director, Assistant Accounts Officer, Stenographer, and various support staff. The responsibilities vary significantly by role:

• Engineers: Planning, designing, executing, supervising, and managing construction and maintenance projects. Site inspection, material quality control, budget management, and adherence to safety standards.
• Administrative Staff: Handling official correspondence, record-keeping, managing files, assisting in administrative tasks, and operational support within departments.
• Stenographers/Clerical Staff: Dictation transcription, drafting letters, managing schedules, and providing secretarial support.

Eligibility Criteria (Detailed)

Eligibility varies based on the specific post, but general criteria include:

• Educational Qualification: Minimum 10th pass for Group 'D' posts; 12th pass for LDC/Stenographer; Diploma in Engineering for Junior Engineer posts; Bachelor's or Master's Degree in Civil/Electrical Engineering or relevant field for Assistant Engineer and higher technical posts. For Accounts posts, a degree in Commerce or equivalent is often required.
• Age Limit: Typically between 18 to 30 years for most posts. Age relaxation is provided for SC/ST (5 years), OBC (3 years), and other eligible categories as per government norms.
• Technical Skills: For specific roles, proficiency in relevant software (AutoCAD, MS Office), drafting, surveying, or knowledge of accounting principles might be necessary. For Stenographers, typing speed (English/Hindi) and shorthand skills are essential.

Selection Process & Exam Pattern

The selection process usually involves multiple stages:

• Written Examination: For Technical and Group 'A'/'B' posts often conducted by UPSC or SSC. This may include Objective type MCQs or Conventional type papers covering General Aptitude, English, Quantitative Aptitude, and specific Engineering disciplines (Civil/Electrical) or Accounts.
• Skill Test/Computer Proficiency Test (CPT): For posts like Stenographer or Data Entry Operator, testing typing speed, shorthand, and computer knowledge.
• Interview: For higher-level posts (e.g., Assistant Engineer, Accounts Officer), a personal interview assesses domain knowledge, communication skills, and suitability.
• Document Verification: Final stage to confirm eligibility and authenticity of submitted documents.

Typical Exam Topics: General Intelligence & Reasoning, Quantitative Aptitude, English Comprehension, General Awareness, Electrical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Accounts principles, and specific departmental knowledge.

Salary Structure & Allowances

CPWD offers competitive salaries aligned with the 7th Pay Commission guidelines. Pay scales depend on the post and level:

• Junior Engineer (JE): Typically starts at Pay Level-6 (Rs. 35,400 - 1,12,400).
• Assistant Engineer (AE): Generally starts at Pay Level-10 (Rs. 56,100 - 1,77,500).
• Other administrative and support staff roles fall into various Pay Levels from Level-1 upwards.

In addition to the basic pay, employees receive Dearness Allowance (DA), House Rent Allowance (HRA), Transport Allowance (TA), and other benefits as admissible to central government employees.

How to Apply

CPWD vacancies are primarily announced through:

• UPSC Notifications: For Group 'A' services (e.g., Assistant Engineer through Engineering Services Examination).
• SSC Notifications: For Junior Engineers (SSC JE) and some Group 'B' & 'C' posts.
• Direct Recruitment: Occasionally, CPWD may issue its own notifications for specific posts via its official website (cpwd.gov.in).

Candidates must regularly check the official websites of UPSC (upsc.gov.in), SSC (ssc.nic.in), and CPWD (cpwd.gov.in) for detailed advertisement releases and application links. The application process is entirely online, involving registration, filling application forms, uploading documents, and paying fees.