Naval Science and Technological Laboratory (NSTL) Recruitment 2026: Career Guide & Vacancy Details

Explore NSTL DRDO Recruitment 2026. Official guide for Scientists, JRFs, and Technicians. Details on GATE 2026 entry, 7th CPC salary, and walk-in interviews.

Last updated on: Jan 29, 2026 | Data sourced from official notifications
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The Naval Science and Technological Laboratory (NSTL), a premier laboratory under the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), offers elite career opportunities in naval weaponry and underwater systems. General eligibility for scientific roles typically requires a First Class B.E./B.Tech or M.E./M.Tech in Mechanical, Electronics, or Naval Architecture, often validated through GATE 2026. For technical and research positions, candidates must possess a strong aptitude for maritime technology and the physical standards required for defense research environments.

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About Naval Science and Technological Laboratory

Naval Science and Technological Laboratory Logo

Naval Science and Technological Laboratory (NSTL) is an esteemed research and development organization dedicated to advancing science and technology for naval applications. Our primary focus is on providing innovative solutions and technical expertise to strengthen the Indian Navy's capabilities.

Established in 1969, NSTL operates under the purview of the Indian Ministry of Defence and is located in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, India. We have earned a reputation as a premier institution for conducting research, development, testing, and evaluation (RDT&E) activities related to naval systems.

At NSTL, our multidisciplinary team comprises scientists, engineers, technicians, and support staff who work collaboratively to address the evolving needs of the Indian Navy. We undertake cutting-edge research in various domains, including underwater technology, shipbuilding, weapons systems, sensors, materials science, and naval propulsion.

Our state-of-the-art facilities and laboratories are equipped with advanced instrumentation and testing infrastructure to carry out comprehensive evaluations and validations of naval systems. We also collaborate with academic institutions, defense agencies, and industries both nationally and internationally to foster knowledge sharing and technology transfer.


Official Address
Naval Science & Technological Laboratory Vigyan Nagar Visakhapatnam-530027
Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh - 530027
Contact Information

This organization has released 6 recruitment notifications in the last 3 years.


Organization Overview

Located in Visakhapatnam, NSTL is DRDO's nodal laboratory for the design and development of underwater weapons, including torpedoes, mines, and decoys. It is also a global leader in warship hull form design and underwater signatures. Working at NSTL provides professionals the opportunity to contribute to India's blue-water naval capabilities through cutting-edge research in hydrodynamics and structural engineering.

About NSTL-DRDO Careers

DetailInformation
Organization TypeDefence R&D Lab (Ministry of Defence)
LocationVisakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh
Primary Entry GateRAC (Scientist B), CEPTAM (Technical), Walk-in (JRF)
Salary Range₹37,000 - ₹2,15,900 (7th CPC / Stipend)
Key Research AreasUnderwater Weapons, Hydrodynamics, Naval Materials

Key Job Profiles

  • Scientist 'B': Direct entry (Group A Gazetted) for engineers and scientists via GATE scores and descriptive tests.
  • Junior Research Fellow (JRF): Specialized research roles for post-graduates focusing on specific naval projects like Torpedo propulsion or CFD.
  • Senior Technical Assistant (STA-B): Technical support roles (Group B) managed through the CEPTAM entry, requiring a Diploma or B.Sc.
  • Technician 'A': Entry-level roles for ITI holders to assist in the fabrication and maintenance of naval prototypes.
  • Research Associate (RA): High-level research positions for Ph.D. holders or experienced M.Tech graduates.

Salary & Benefits

NSTL employees receive competitive compensation under the 7th Pay Commission. A Scientist 'B' starts at Level-10 with a basic pay of ₹56,100 and gross emoluments exceeding ₹1,00,000 (including DA, HRA, and Transport Allowance). Junior Research Fellows (JRF) receive a stipend of ₹37,000 + HRA. Benefits include Canteen Facilities, Leave Travel Concession (LTC), and medical coverage under the Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS). Scientists also receive a unique Professional Update Allowance ranging from ₹22,500 upwards annually.

Selection Process

The recruitment process at NSTL varies by the nature of the vacancy:

  1. Scientist 'B' (RAC): Shortlisting based on GATE 2026 scores, followed by a Descriptive Examination and a Personal Interview.
  2. JRF/RA Selection: Primarily via Walk-in-Interviews (e.g., scheduled for Feb 26, 2026) where a written screening test may be held if candidate volume is high.
  3. Technical Staff (CEPTAM): A two-tier Computer Based Test (CBT) assessing mental ability and subject-specific knowledge.
  4. Apprenticeship: Merit-based selection based on marks obtained in ITI or Diploma courses.

How to Crack NSTL-DRDO Interviews

  • Core Subject Depth: For JRF roles, master core engineering concepts (Fluid Mechanics for Mechanical, Signal Processing for Electronics).
  • Naval Awareness: Familiarize yourself with current Indian Navy projects and the strategic importance of underwater defense.
  • NET/GATE Consistency: Maintain a valid NET/GATE scorecard as it is a mandatory prerequisite for most JRF and Scientist B entries.
  • Field Experience: Highlight any projects related to CAD/CAM, CFD, or embedded systems during your walk-in interview.


Mandatory Disclaimer: All details are sourced from official notifications. MySarkariNaukri.com provides informational guidance only and is not affiliated with any government agency.

Verification Source: Official NSTL-DRDO Website

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

The next major walk-in interview for JRF positions (Mechanical, ECE, CSE, Instrumentation) is scheduled for February 26, 2026, at Visakhapatnam.

Yes, a valid NET/GATE score is essential for B.E./B.Tech candidates. It is not mandatory for M.E./M.Tech candidates provided they have first division at both UG and PG levels.

The upper age limit is 28 years as on the date of the interview, with a 5-year relaxation for SC/ST and 3 years for OBC candidates.

Candidates must bring their Bio-Data, original certificates (10th, Degree, NET/GATE), caste certificate, photo ID, and two passport-size photos.

No, the award of a fellowship is temporary and does not confer any right for permanent absorption into DRDO.

General/OBC candidates usually pay a nominal fee of ₹10/- via Indian Postal Order or Demand Draft; SC/ST and Women are exempted.

Yes, final-year students can apply provided they have their final results and valid GATE scores by the crucial date of eligibility specified in the RAC notification.

As a defense lab, it typically follows a 5-day week with standard government hours, though project deadlines may require extended shifts.