The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has officially announced a new recruitment notification for 188 administrative and accounts-related positions under the Ministry of Defence. This recruitment drive offers an excellent opportunity for experienced government officers looking to work in one of India’s most prestigious defence research organizations.
The vacancies include positions such as Accounts Officer, Private Secretary, Administrative Officer, Stores Officer, Joint Director, and Senior Accounts Officer. Interested and eligible candidates can apply offline through the prescribed application format starting from 12 February 2026. The application must reach the department within 45 days from the publication of the circular in Employment News, which is approximately 29 March 2026.
Candidates must submit their application forms through the proper channel along with the required documents as mentioned in the official notification.
Applicants who wish to apply must visit the official website for notification and application details.
DRDO Recruitment 2026 Overview
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Organization | Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) |
| Recruitment Name | DRDO Various Posts Recruitment 2026 |
| Total Vacancies | 188 Posts |
| Posts | Accounts Officer, Private Secretary & Others |
| Application Mode | Offline |
| Job Location | All India |
| Start Date to Apply | 12 February 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply | 29 March 2026 (Approx.) |
| Official Website | https://www.drdo.gov.in |
DRDO is the research and development wing of the Ministry of Defence and is responsible for developing advanced defence technologies for India’s armed forces. Working with DRDO offers candidates a chance to contribute to national security while building a stable government career.
DRDO Vacancy 2026 Details
The recruitment drive includes 188 vacancies distributed across multiple administrative and accounts posts.
| Post Name | Vacancies |
|---|---|
| Joint Director (Administration) | 4 |
| Joint Director (Accounts) | 1 |
| Additional Chief Construction Engineer | 1 |
| Senior Accounts Officer Grade-II | 1 |
| Administrative Officer | 46 |
| Stores Officer | 34 |
| Accounts Officer | 16 |
| Private Secretary | 85 |
| Total | 188 Posts |
These posts will be filled on deputation or absorption basis from eligible officers currently working in government departments or organizations.
DRDO Recruitment 2026 Important Dates
Candidates must keep track of the following important dates to avoid missing the application deadline.
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Notification Release Date | 12 February 2026 |
| Application Start Date | 12 February 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply | 29 March 2026 (Approx., within 45 days) |
Applications received after the closing date will not be considered by the authorities.
Educational Qualification
Candidates applying for the DRDO recruitment must fulfill the educational qualifications and experience requirements depending on the post.
General Qualification Requirements:
- Bachelor’s Degree from a recognized university or institute
- Engineering degree (for technical posts such as Additional CCE)
- Relevant experience in administration, accounts, finance, stores management, or stenography depending on the role
For example:
- Accounts Officer: Degree with Subordinate Accounts Service qualification and experience in accounts/budget work.
- Private Secretary: Officers holding stenographer positions in government departments.
- Administrative Officer: Degree with experience in administration or establishment work.
Applicants should carefully review the official notification to confirm post-specific eligibility criteria.
Age Limit
The maximum age limit for appointment through deputation is:
- Maximum Age: 56 years
Age will be calculated based on the closing date for submission of applications. Age relaxation rules may apply according to government norms.
DRDO Salary Structure
Selected candidates will receive salary according to the 7th Pay Commission Pay Matrix.
| Post | Pay Level |
|---|---|
| Joint Director / Additional CCE | Level 13 |
| Senior Accounts Officer | Level 10 |
| Administrative Officer / Stores Officer | Level 7 |
| Accounts Officer | Level 7 |
| Private Secretary | Level 7 |
The salary range can go from approximately ₹44,900 to ₹2,09,200 per month depending on the post and pay level.
Employees will also receive additional government benefits such as:
- Dearness Allowance (DA)
- House Rent Allowance (HRA)
- Medical facilities
- Pension benefits
Selection Process
The selection process for DRDO Recruitment 2026 is relatively straightforward.
Candidates will be selected based on:
- Scrutiny of application and eligibility
- Verification of service records
- Interview or departmental assessment
Unlike many government recruitments, no written examination is required for these posts since the recruitment is based on deputation from government services.
How to Apply for DRDO Recruitment 2026
Candidates interested in applying must follow the offline application process carefully.
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Visit the official website: https://www.drdo.gov.in
- Go to the Vacancies / Careers section.
- Download the official notification and application form.
- Fill out the application form with accurate personal and professional details.
- Attach required documents such as:
- Educational certificates
- Service records
- APARs of last 5 years
- Identity proof
- Get the application forwarded through the proper channel by the parent department.
- Send the completed application to the following address:
Deputy Director, Directorate of Personnel (Pers-AA1)
Room No. 266, 2nd Floor
DRDO Bhawan, Rajaji Marg
New Delhi – 110105
The application must reach the department on or before 29 March 2026.
Why Apply for DRDO Jobs?
Working at DRDO offers several benefits and career advantages:
✔ Stable central government job
✔ Opportunity to work in India’s top defence research organization
✔ Attractive salary under 7th Pay Commission
✔ All India service exposure
✔ Pension and retirement benefits
Professionals in administrative, accounts, and engineering fields can significantly enhance their careers by working in a high-profile organization like DRDO.
Final Words
The DRDO Recruitment 2026 for 188 Accounts Officer, Private Secretary and Other Posts is a great opportunity for experienced government officers seeking deputation roles in a prestigious defence organization. With a wide range of administrative and financial positions available, eligible candidates should not miss this chance.
Since the application process is offline, applicants must carefully fill out the form and submit it before the deadline of 29 March 2026.
