NIT Karnataka (NITK Surathkal) Recruitment 2026: Career Guide & Vacancy Details

About NIT Karnataka Careers

🏛️ Organization Overview

National Institute of Technology Karnataka, Surathkal, formerly known as Karnataka Regional Engineering College (KREC), is a central government-funded technical university under the Ministry of Education. Established in 1960, the institute has evolved into a powerhouse of innovation, contributing significantly to India's technological and industrial growth. Its strategic location on the shores of the Arabian Sea in Mangaluru provides a unique and inspiring work environment.

The institute operates with a high degree of autonomy, governed by the NITSER Act. Its workforce is divided into two primary wings: the Academic Faculty, who drive research and teaching across 14 departments, and the Non-Teaching Staff, who manage the extensive administrative, technical, and estate operations. With a strong emphasis on "Socially Relevant Research," working at NITK means being at the forefront of national development.

💼 Key Job Profiles (Evergreen Roles)

• Assistant Professor (Grade I & II): Responsible for delivering high-quality education, mentoring research scholars, and securing external research funding. These roles are the backbone of the academic departments.
• Technical Officer / Scientific Officer: These professionals manage the Institute's sophisticated labs (like the Central Research Facility) and IT infrastructure, ensuring seamless support for research and experimental activities.
• Superintendent / Junior Assistant: Part of the administrative cadre, these roles handle the day-to-day operations of the Registrar’s office, academic sections, and financial accounting.
• Technician / Senior Technician: Tasked with the maintenance of laboratory equipment, workshop operations, and providing practical assistance during student lab sessions.

💰 Salary & Employee Benefits

NIT Karnataka follows the 7th Central Pay Commission (CPC) structure. Most permanent positions are categorized under Group A, B, or C.

• Faculty Pay Scales: Typically start from Level-10 (Assistant Professor Grade II) to Level-14A (Professor).
• Non-Teaching Group A: Scales such as Level-10 for Executive Engineers or Medical Officers.
• Group B & C: Scales ranging from Level-3 to Level-7.

Standard Perks include:

• Dearness Allowance (DA) & HRA: Revised semi-annually as per Central Government norms.
• Campus Housing: Availability of residential quarters within the beautiful Surathkal campus.
• Health Benefits: Comprehensive medical coverage for employees and their dependents at the Institute Health Centre and empanelled hospitals.
• Professional Development: Cumulative Professional Development Allowance (CPDA) for faculty to attend international conferences.

🎯 Selection Process

The recruitment process at NITK is rigorous and transparent, generally following these stages:

1. Shortlisting: Applications are screened based on the "Recruitment Rules" (RRs) which specify the minimum credit points (for faculty) or educational percentages (for staff).
2. Written/CBT Test: For non-teaching roles, a Computer Based Test (CBT) often conducted by the NTA or Samarth portal tests domain knowledge and aptitude.
3. Skill/Trade Test: Technical roles require a qualifying skill test (e.g., laboratory handling or typing tests).
4. Personal Interview: Group A and Faculty positions conclude with a presentation and a final interview before a selection committee.

💡 Expert Tips (How to Crack NIT Karnataka Exams)

• Focus on the NIT Recruitment Rules (RR): Unlike general PSUs, NITs follow specific "Recruitment Rules" published by the Ministry of Education. Ensure your "Credit Points" (for faculty) or "Experience years" align perfectly before applying.
• Master the Gateways: For technical and officer roles, having a valid GATE score is often a preferred qualification, even if not mandatory. It adds significant weight to your profile during shortlisting.
• Prepare for the "Surathkal Culture": During interviews, highlight your ability to contribute to the institute's administrative committees (like the Estate office or Student Affairs), as NITK values multi-faceted staff.