FDDI Recruitment 2026: Career Guide & Vacancy Details

About Footwear Design & Development Institute (FDDI) Careers

🏛️ Organization Overview

Established in 1986, the Footwear Design & Development Institute (FDDI) plays a pivotal role in the "Make in India" initiative. It serves as a bridge between the industry and academia, providing specialized human resources and technical services to the footwear, leather, and fashion sectors. With its status as an Institution of National Importance (granted in 2017), FDDI has expanded its footprint to 12 state-of-the-art campuses across India, including major hubs in Chennai, Kolkata, and Hyderabad.

The organization is not just a teaching institute; it houses world-class International Testing Centers (ITCs) and Centers of Excellence (CoE) that provide consultancy and quality testing for global brands. Working at FDDI means being part of a strategic mission to position India as a global leader in design and lifestyle product manufacturing.

💼 Key Job Profiles (Evergreen Roles)

• Teaching Faculty (Professor/Associate Professor/Assistant Professor): Responsible for imparting specialized knowledge in Footwear Design, Fashion Design, Retail Management, and Leather Goods. They lead R&D projects and industry-linked workshops.
• Technical Experts & Lab Assistants: These roles focus on the International Testing Centers, conducting material testing, quality control, and operating high-end CAD/CAM machinery.
• Administrative & Management Staff: Includes roles such as Managers (Placement/Admissions), Accountants, and Registrar office staff who handle the operational and corporate relations of the various campuses.

💰 Salary & Employee Benefits

FDDI follows the 7th Central Pay Commission (CPC) pay matrix for its permanent employees. While many entry-level or specialized project roles may be on a contract/consolidated pay basis, regular positions enjoy full government benefits.

• Pay Scales: Academic positions typically range from Level-10 to Level-14. Non-academic technical roles often start at Level-6 or Level-7.
• Perks: Employees are eligible for Dearness Allowance (DA), House Rent Allowance (HRA), and Transport Allowance.
• Benefits: Comprehensive medical facilities, Leave Travel Concession (LTC), and Gratuity as per institute norms.

🎯 Selection Process

The recruitment process at FDDI is designed to filter for both technical proficiency and creative aptitude.

1. Screening of Applications: Candidates are shortlisted based on their educational qualifications (typically from NIFT, NID, or top Engineering/Design colleges) and relevant industry experience.
2. Written Test/Skill Test: For technical and administrative roles, a competitive exam covering general aptitude and domain-specific knowledge is conducted.
3. Presentation/Interview: Faculty candidates are often required to give a "teaching demo" or presentation, followed by a final personal interview before a selection committee.

💡 Expert Tips: How to Crack FDDI Exams

• Master the Portfolio: For academic and design roles, your portfolio is your strongest asset. Ensure it showcases a blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern CAD/CAM skills.
• Stay Updated on Industry Trends: FDDI values candidates who understand the global leather and footwear market, including sustainable manufacturing and "Industry 4.0" integration.
• Focus on Teaching Pedagogy: If applying for faculty roles, practice explaining complex design concepts in simple terms. The interview panel frequently assesses your ability to mentor students.