DRDO RAC Scientist Recruitment 2026 Notification Out for 36 Vacancies

The Recruitment & Assessment Centre (RAC) of the Defence Research and Development Organisation published a notification under Advertisement Number 157. This lateral entry recruitment drive aims to onboard experienced professionals permanently for the prestigious Defence Research & Development Service (DRDS) cadre. 

Experienced engineers and scientists seeking a rewarding career in national defence innovation can register online at the portal DRDO RAC Official Website (rac.gov.in). The selection environment focuses entirely on qualifications and professional merit, completely bypassing traditional written examinations.

DRDO Recruitment 2026: Important Dates

Post-Wise Vacancy & Pay Matrix Details

The basic pay scale ranges from INR 67,700 to INR 1,23,100 per month, along with standard Central Government perks:

• Scientist 'C' (Level 11): 23 Vacancies | Basic Pay: INR 67,700/month

• Scientist 'D' (Level 12): 11 Vacancies | Basic Pay: INR 78,800/month

• Scientist 'E' (Level 13): 2 Vacancies | Basic Pay: INR 1,23,100/month

Strict Eligibility Criteria & Requirements

Educational Qualification

• Engineering / Tech Categories: A continuous First Class Bachelor's Degree (Minimum 60% marks or 6.75 CGPA) in relevant engineering streams from an AICTE-approved institution.

• Science Categories: A mandatory First Class Master’s Degree in relevant natural or physical sciences.

Mandatory Post-Qualification Experience

• Scientist C: Minimum 3 years of active research or design experience.

• Scientist D: Minimum 7 years of industrial or development experience.

• Scientist E: Minimum 10 years of expert domain experience.

Upper Age Limits

• Scientist C: 35 Years maximum.

• Scientist D & E: 45 Years maximum.

• Standard age relaxations apply for SC, ST, OBC, PwD, and serving defence personnel as per government policy.