ISRO Recruitment 2026: Career Guide & Vacancy Details

About ISRO Careers

🏛️ Organization Overview

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is the primary agency of the Government of India for space research and applications. Established with the vision to harness space technology for national development, it has evolved into one of the top six space agencies in the world. ISRO maintains a massive infrastructure including launch sites, tracking networks, and research centers spread across the Indian subcontinent.

Strategically, ISRO operates through various specialized centers such as the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC) in Thiruvananthapuram for rocket development, U R Rao Satellite Centre (URSC) in Bengaluru for satellite fabrication, and Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC) SHAR in Sriharikota as the primary launch base. A career here is not just a job but a contribution to India's global standing in the space economy.

💼 Key Job Profiles (Evergreen Roles)

• Scientist/Engineer 'SC' (Group A): The flagship entry-level role for B.E./B.Tech graduates. Responsibilities include designing spacecraft systems, launch vehicle propulsion, and mission control operations.
• Technical Assistant: A critical support role for Diploma holders. These professionals manage laboratory testing, assembly line operations, and high-precision manufacturing.
• Technician 'B': Aimed at ITI certificate holders, focusing on the fabrication, wiring, and hardware maintenance of satellite and rocket components.
• Administrative & Support Staff: Includes roles like Assistants (Finance/Purchase), Stenographers, and Junior Personal Assistants who handle the logistical and administrative framework of the centers.

💰 Salary & Employee Benefits

ISRO employees are compensated under the 7th Central Pay Commission (CPC) guidelines, featuring high entry-level basic pay and generous allowances.

• Scientist/Engineer 'SC': Placed in Level-10 with a starting basic pay of ₹56,100. Gross monthly salary (including HRA/DA) in 2026 is approximately ₹85,000 - ₹90,000 in Metro cities.
• Technical Assistant: Placed in Level-7 with a starting basic pay of ₹44,900.
• Technician 'B': Placed in Level-3 with a starting basic pay of ₹21,700.
• Core Benefits:
  • HRA: Based on city category (Class X, Y, Z).
  • PRIS: Performance Related Incentive Scheme (Variable pay based on achievement).
  • Medical: Comprehensive coverage under the Contributory Health Service Scheme (CHSS).
  • Housing: Well-maintained residential quarters in ISRO townships.

🎯 Selection Process

The hiring process at ISRO is merit-driven and transparent, usually following these stages:

1. Screening (Shortlisting): For Scientists, this is often done via GATE 2026 scores or an initial screening of academic records (minimum 65% aggregate).
2. Written Test: Conducted by the ICRB (ISRO Centralised Recruitment Board). It tests domain-specific technical knowledge and basic aptitude.
3. Skill Test (Qualifying): For Technical Assistants and Technicians to evaluate practical hands-on proficiency.
4. Personal Interview: The final deciding factor for Scientist/Engineer roles. It focuses on conceptual clarity, problem-solving, and academic achievements.

💡 Expert Tips: How to Crack ISRO Exams

• Focus on Technical Core: Unlike other competitive exams, ISRO's written test is 80-90% technical. Master the core subjects of your engineering branch (e.g., SOM, Thermodynamics for Mechanical; Network Theory for Electronics).
• Speed and Accuracy: You often have to solve 80-100 questions in 90-120 minutes. Practice previous year papers to improve your calculation speed without a calculator.
• The "Why" in Interviews: ISRO interviewers often pick a simple topic and dig deep into the "first principles." Be prepared to explain the physical significance of mathematical equations.