DRDO CEPTAM-11 Recruitment 2025: Bumper Vacancies for 764 STA-B & Technician Posts
A Golden Opportunity to Join DRDO with Pride and Serve the Nation. Online Applications Expected to Start from December 9, 2025.
India's premier defense research and development organization, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), has announced a major recruitment drive through its Centre for Personnel Talent Management (CEPTAM). An indicative advertisement, CEPTAM-11, has been released for the recruitment of 764 posts of Senior Technical Assistant-B (STA-B) and Technician-A (Tech-A). This is heralded as a "golden opportunity to join DRDO with pride and serve the nation" for young individuals aspiring to build a career in the field of science and technology.
This DRDO CEPTAM Recruitment campaign opens a prestigious pathway for talented diploma holders, science graduates, and ITI-certified candidates from across the country to contribute directly to the advancement of Indian defense technology. Selected candidates will have the privilege of working in various DRDO laboratories and establishments spread across the nation, where they will be involved in cutting-edge defense systems and technologies. The application process will be entirely online, tentatively expected to commence on December 9, 2025. This article provides all the available information, expected eligibility criteria, and a preparation strategy for this highly anticipated DRDO Recruitment.
DRDO CEPTAM-11 Recruitment 2025 Important Points
Here is a concise overview of the key details regarding this recruitment drive. Aspirants are advised to keep these points in mind for future reference.
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Recruiting Organization | Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) |
| Recruitment Agency | Centre for Personnel Talent Management (CEPTAM) |
| Advertisement Number | CEPTAM-11 |
| Post Names | Senior Technical Assistant-B (STA-B) & Technician-A (Tech-A) |
| Total Vacancies | 764 |
| Job Location | All India (in various DRDO labs/establishments) |
| Application Mode | Online |
| Tentative Application Start Date | December 9, 2025 |
Vacancy Details and Post-wise Breakdown
Under the CEPTAM-11 recruitment, a total of 764 posts have been announced, which are divided into two main categories. These posts form a crucial part of DRDO's technical cadre, providing vital support to the organization's research and development activities.
| Sr. No. | Post Name | Number of Vacancies |
|---|---|---|
| 01 | Senior Technical Assistant-B (STA-B) | 561 |
| 02 | Technician-A (Tech-A) | 203 |
| Grand Total | 764 | |
Application Fee (Expected)
- General (UR), OBC, and EWS Male Candidates: ₹ 100/-
- All Female Candidates, SC, ST, PwBD, and Ex-Servicemen: NIL (Fee Exempted)
The application fee details will be confirmed in the detailed notification. Payment will be accepted through online modes only.
Eligibility Criteria: Education and Age Limit
Disclaimer: The detailed educational qualifications will be available in the official notification. The information below is indicative and based on previous DRDO CEPTAM recruitment patterns.
Educational Qualification (Expected)
| Post Name | Expected Educational Qualification |
|---|---|
| Senior Technical Assistant-B (STA-B) |
A Diploma in Engineering or Technology in the relevant subject from a recognized institute. OR A Bachelor's Degree in Science (B.Sc.) in the relevant subject from a recognized university. (Relevant subjects may include Mechanical, Electrical, Electronics, Computer Science, Civil, Chemical Engineering, Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, Library Science, etc.) |
| Technician-A (Tech-A) |
Passed 10th Class from a recognized board. AND A certificate from a recognized Industrial Training Institute (ITI) in the relevant trade. (Potential trades may include Fitter, Turner, Machinist, Electrician, Electronics Mechanic, Welder, COPA, Carpenter, etc.) |
Age Limit (Expected)
The age limit for both posts is expected to be uniform, with relaxations provided to reserved category candidates as per Government of India norms.
| Post Name | Minimum Age | Maximum Age (UR) |
|---|---|---|
| STA-B and Tech-A | 18 years | 28 years |
Upper Age Limit Relaxation:
- SC/ST: 5 years
- OBC (Non-Creamy Layer): 3 years
- Persons with Benchmark Disabilities (PwBD): 10 years (UR), 13 years (OBC), 15 years (SC/ST)
- Ex-Servicemen (ESM): 3 years after deduction of the military service rendered from the actual age.
Selection Process
The DRDO CEPTAM selection process is a multi-tiered, computer-based testing (CBT) system designed to ensure fairness and meritocracy.
- Tier-I (CBT) - Screening Test:
- This is likely to be a common screening test for both STA-B and Tech-A posts.
- It is a qualifying examination, and its marks are not typically used for the final merit list of STA-B but are used for Tech-A.
- Candidates who clear this stage will be shortlisted for Tier-II in a specified ratio.
- Tier-II - Final Selection Stage:
- For Senior Technical Assistant-B (STA-B): This will be a CBT that tests the candidate's knowledge in their specific discipline (e.g., Mechanical Engineering, Physics, etc.). The final merit list will be prepared based solely on the marks obtained in this Tier-II exam.
- For Technician-A (Tech-A): This stage will be a practical Trade Test. It will assess the hands-on skills of the candidate in their respective ITI trade. This test is qualifying in nature (Pass/Fail). The final merit list for Tech-A will be prepared based on the marks obtained in the Tier-I CBT.
- Document Verification and Medical Examination: Finally selected candidates will have to undergo document verification and a medical examination as per DRDO standards before the final appointment.
DRDO CEPTAM-11 Exam Pattern and Syllabus (Expected)
Understanding the exam pattern and syllabus is the first step toward a successful preparation strategy.
Tier-I CBT Exam Pattern (Common for STA-B & Tech-A)
| Subject | Number of Questions | Maximum Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Quantitative Ability/Aptitude | 120 | 120 | 90 Minutes |
| General Intelligence & Reasoning Ability | |||
| General Awareness | |||
| English Language (Basic Knowledge) | |||
| General Science |
Tier-II CBT Exam Pattern (For STA-B only)
| Subject | Number of Questions | Maximum Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Test specific to the subject of post-code (Diploma/B.Sc. Level) | 100 | 100 | 90 Minutes |
Syllabus for Tier-I (Common)
- Quantitative Aptitude: Number System, HCF, LCM, Simplification, Decimals, Fractions, Ratio & Proportion, Percentage, Profit & Loss, Simple & Compound Interest, Time & Work, Time & Distance, Mensuration.
- Reasoning Ability: Analogies, Similarities and Differences, Space Visualization, Problem Solving, Analysis, Judgment, Decision Making, Visual Memory, Coding and Decoding, Number Series, Non-Verbal Series.
- General Awareness: Current events of national and international importance, History, Culture, Geography, Economic Scene, General Polity, Scientific Research, Defence related news.
- English Language: Vocabulary, Grammar, Sentence Structure, Synonyms, Antonyms, Comprehension, Error Detection, Fill in the Blanks.
- General Science: Physics, Chemistry, and Biology (up to 10th standard level).
Syllabus for Tier-II (STA-B)
The syllabus will be based on the essential qualification required for the post. For example, for Mechanical Engineering, topics will include Thermodynamics, Fluid Mechanics, Theory of Machines, Machine Design, Production Technology, etc. For Physics, topics would cover Mechanics, Optics, Electromagnetism, Modern Physics, etc.
Physical Efficiency Test (PET)
There is no Physical Efficiency Test (PET) or Physical Standard Test (PST) for the posts of STA-B and Tech-A in DRDO CEPTAM recruitment. The selection is based entirely on performance in the written/trade tests.
How to Prepare for the DRDO CEPTAM-11 Exam
The DRDO CEPTAM exam is highly competitive. A disciplined and strategic approach is essential for success.
- Understand the Syllabus and Pattern: Thoroughly analyze the exam pattern and syllabus. Identify your strong and weak areas.
- Build a Strong Foundation (Tier-I):
- Strengthen your fundamental concepts in General Science, Mathematics, and Reasoning up to the 10th-grade level using NCERT books.
- Practice quantitative aptitude and reasoning questions regularly. Solving previous years' papers is highly beneficial.
- For General Awareness, stay updated with the last 6-8 months of national and international events, with a special focus on news related to science, technology, and defense.
- Master Your Domain (Tier-II):
- For STA-B: Conduct an in-depth study of your Diploma or B.Sc. curriculum. Focus on core principles and their practical applications. Practice solving objective-type questions from standard textbooks.
- For Tech-A: Reinforce both the theoretical and practical aspects of your ITI trade. Pay special attention to workshop safety rules and the correct use of tools and equipment.
- Practice with Mock Tests: Regularly take online mock tests to assess your preparation level, improve time management, and get accustomed to the exam environment. Analyze your performance after each test to work on your weak spots.
Best Books for Preparation
Here is a list of recommended books that can aid your preparation:
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How to Apply for DRDO CEPTAM Recruitment
The application process will be conducted exclusively in online mode through the official DRDO website.
- Visit the official DRDO website: www.drdo.gov.in.
- Navigate to the "Careers" or "What's New" section and find the link for the CEPTAM advertisement board.
- Carefully read the detailed notification for "CEPTAM-11" to understand all eligibility criteria and instructions.
- Click on the "Apply Online" link (This link will be activated tentatively on December 9, 2025).
- Register by providing your basic details, a valid email ID, and a mobile number.
- Fill out the application form with accurate personal, educational, and other details.
- Upload scanned copies of your recent passport-size photograph, signature, and necessary educational and category certificates in the prescribed format.
- Pay the application fee, if applicable, through the online payment gateway.
- Review all the filled details before final submission. After submitting, take a printout of the application form for future reference.
Documents Needed to Apply
You will need the following documents while applying online and during document verification:
- 10th Class Marksheet and Certificate (for proof of date of birth).
- All Marksheets and Final Certificate of ITI / Diploma / B.Sc.
- Recent passport-size color photograph.
- Scanned copy of your signature.
- Reserved category certificate (SC/ST/OBC-NCL/EWS/PwBD) in the format prescribed by the Government of India.
- A valid photo ID proof (such as Aadhaar Card, Voter ID, Passport).
- Discharge certificate for Ex-Servicemen (if applicable).
Important Links
| Link Type | Link |
|---|---|
| Download Detailed Notification | Click Here (Link will be active soon) |
| Apply Online | Click Here (Tentatively from 09.12.2025) |
| Official Website | https://www.drdo.gov.in |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Question 1: When will the online application for DRDO CEPTAM-11 start?
As per the indicative advertisement, the online application link is tentatively expected to be activated on the DRDO website on December 9, 2025.
- Question 2: What are the total vacancies for STA-B and Tech-A?
There are 561 vacancies for STA-B and 203 vacancies for Tech-A, making a total of 764 vacancies.
- Question 3: Can final-year students apply for these posts?
Typically, candidates must have completed their essential educational qualification by the closing date of the application. Final-year students are usually not eligible unless specified otherwise in the detailed notification.
- Question 4: What is the selection process for these posts?
The selection process is expected to have two tiers. For STA-B, both tiers will be computer-based tests. For Tech-A, Tier-I will be a CBT, and Tier-II will be a practical trade test.
- Question 5: Is there an interview for DRDO CEPTAM recruitment?
Based on previous CEPTAM patterns, there is no interview for the posts of STA-B and Tech-A. The selection is based purely on the performance in the written examination and/or trade test.
