DRDO ADA Recruitment 2026 for 111 Project Assistant-I Positions
🕒 Updated On: 20 August 2026 | 07:56 AM 📄 Category: Result

DRDO ADA Recruitment 2026 for 111 Project Assistant-I Positions

The Aeronautical Development Agency (DRDO ADA) has officially announced the recruitment notification for the position of Project Assistant-I for the year 2026. This recruitment drive has an allocation of 111 vacancies across various engineering disciplines. The online application window will open from 6 August 2026 and remain accessible until 13 August 2026. Interested candidates can apply for these positions by visiting the official website at ada.gov.in.

Note: This job posting has expired.

Overview

In a formal notification (Advertisement No. ADA:ADV-138:2026) dated 03.08.2026, the ADA has outlined its requirement for qualified Indian nationals to fill Project Assistant-I roles on a temporary basis. The vacancies are distributed across seven engineering disciplines, including Computer Science, Electronics & Communication, Aeronautical, Electrical & Electronics, Mechanical, Metallurgy, and Civil Engineering.

Candidates who possess a first-class engineering degree (or equivalent based on applicable qualification pathways for each discipline) can register online until 13th August 2026, at 1700 hrs. Selection will be determined through either an interview or through a combination of a written test and an interview, depending on the selected qualification pathway. Both the written test and the interview will take place in Bangalore, with selected candidates being appointed for an initial period of two years.

ADA Project Assistant-I Recruitment 2026 Overview

Particulars Details
Organisation Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA), Ministry of Defence, Govt. of India
Advertisement Number ADA:ADV-138:2026
Notification Date 03.08.2026
Post Name Project Assistant-I
Total Tentative Vacancies 111
Nature of Engagement Tenure basis (initially 2 years, extendable)
Mode of Registration Online
Registration Closing Date 13.08.2026, 1700 hrs
Written Test/Interview Location Bangalore
Official Website https://ada.gov.in

ADA Project Assistant-I Vacancy 2026

There are 111 tentative vacancies for Project Assistant-I available across seven engineering disciplines, detailed in the following table:

S. No. Post Name (Engineering Discipline) No. of Vacancies
1 Project Assistant-I – Computer Science Engineering (Equivalent: Information Science / Information Technology) 15
2 Project Assistant-I – Electronics & Communication Engineering (Equivalent: Electronics/Telecommunication/Electronics & Instrumentation) 20
3 Project Assistant-I – Aeronautical Engineering (Equivalent: Aerospace) 10
4 Project Assistant-I – Electrical & Electronics Engineering (Equivalent: Electrical/Electrical & Instrumentation/Power Electronics) 20
5 Project Assistant-I – Mechanical Engineering (Equivalent: Production/Industrial Production) 43
6 Project Assistant-I – Metallurgy Engineering (Equivalent: Material Science) 1
7 Project Assistant-I – Civil Engineering (Equivalent: Structural) 2
Total - 111

The announcement does not provide a reservation breakdown by category (SC/ST/OBC) for the vacancies. The ADA retains the right to adjust the selection panel across different disciplines for both current and expected vacancies for a duration of six months, based on requirements.

ADA Project Assistant-I Eligibility Criteria

Only Indian Nationals are eligible to apply for the ADA Project Assistant-I roles. Candidates must possess the educational qualifications from a recognized university pertinent to their selected engineering discipline and qualification pathway, as specified below. All eligibility criteria regarding qualifications and age must be evaluated as of the closing date for registration, 13th August 2026.

ADA Project Assistant-I Qualification

There are varied qualification pathways for each discipline, with the selection process (either through interview alone or via shortlisting followed by an interview) determined by the pathway a candidate qualifies under. All qualifications must be of First Class standard.

Discipline Qualification Pathways – Interview Only Qualification Pathways – Written Test + Interview
Computer Science Engineering (a) B.E/B.Tech with a valid GATE score
(b) M.E/M.Tech from IIT/NIT
(c) B.Sc + M.Sc with a valid GATE/NET score
(d) B.E/B.Tech with M.E/M.Tech
(e) B.E/B.Tech with 2 years relevant experience
(f) B.Sc + M.Sc with 2 years relevant experience
(g) B.E/B.Tech
(a) B.E/B.Tech with a valid GATE score
(b) M.E/M.Tech from IIT/NIT
(c) B.Sc + M.Sc with a valid GATE/NET score
(d) B.E/B.Tech with M.E/M.Tech
(e) B.E/B.Tech with 2 years relevant experience
(f) B.Sc + M.Sc with 2 years relevant experience
(g) B.E/B.Tech
Electronics & Communication Engineering (a) B.E/B.Tech with a valid GATE score
(b) M.E/M.Tech from IIT/NIT
(c) B.Sc + M.Sc with a valid GATE/NET score
(d) B.E/B.Tech with M.E/M.Tech
(e) B.E/B.Tech with 2 years relevant experience
(f) B.Sc + M.Sc with 2 years relevant experience
(g) B.E/B.Tech
(a) B.E/B.Tech with a valid GATE score
(b) M.E/M.Tech from IIT/NIT
(c) B.Sc + M.Sc with a valid GATE/NET score
(d) B.E/B.Tech with M.E/M.Tech
(e) B.E/B.Tech with 2 years relevant experience
(f) B.Sc + M.Sc with 2 years relevant experience
(g) B.E/B.Tech
Aeronautical Engineering (a) B.E/B.Tech with a valid GATE score
(b) M.E/M.Tech from IIT/NIT
(c) B.E/B.Tech with M.E/M.Tech
(d) B.E/B.Tech with 2 years relevant experience
(e) B.E/B.Tech
(a) B.E/B.Tech with a valid GATE score
(b) M.E/M.Tech from IIT/NIT
(c) B.E/B.Tech with M.E/M.Tech
(d) B.E/B.Tech with 2 years relevant experience
(e) B.E/B.Tech
Electrical & Electronics Engineering (a) B.E/B.Tech with a valid GATE score
(b) M.E/M.Tech from IIT/NIT
(c) B.E/B.Tech with M.E/M.Tech
(d) B.E/B.Tech with 2 years relevant experience
(e) B.E/B.Tech
(a) B.E/B.Tech with a valid GATE score
(b) M.E/M.Tech from IIT/NIT
(c) B.E/B.Tech with M.E/M.Tech
(d) B.E/B.Tech with 2 years relevant experience
(e) B.E/B.Tech
Mechanical Engineering (a) B.E/B.Tech with a valid GATE score
(b) M.E/M.Tech from IIT/NIT
(c) B.E/B.Tech with M.E/M.Tech
(d) B.E/B.Tech with 2 years relevant experience
(e) B.E/B.Tech
(a) B.E/B.Tech with a valid GATE score
(b) M.E/M.Tech from IIT/NIT
(c) B.E/B.Tech with M.E/M.Tech
(d) B.E/B.Tech with 2 years relevant experience
(e) B.E/B.Tech
Metallurgy Engineering (a) B.E/B.Tech with a valid GATE score
(b) M.E/M.Tech from IIT/NIT
(c) B.E/B.Tech with M.E/M.Tech
(d) B.E/B.Tech with 2 years relevant experience
(e) B.E/B.Tech
(a) B.E/B.Tech with a valid GATE score
(b) M.E/M.Tech from IIT/NIT
(c) B.E/B.Tech with M.E/M.Tech
(d) B.E/B.Tech with 2 years relevant experience
(e) B.E/B.Tech
Civil Engineering (a) B.E/B.Tech with a valid GATE score
(b) M.E/M.Tech from IIT/NIT
(c) B.E/B.Tech with M.E/M.Tech
(d) B.E/B.Tech with 2 years relevant experience
(e) B.E/B.Tech
(a) B.E/B.Tech with a valid GATE score
(b) M.E/M.Tech from IIT/NIT
(c) B.E/B.Tech with M.E/M.Tech
(d) B.E/B.Tech with 2 years relevant experience
(e) B.E/B.Tech

According to the notification, experience gained from part-time roles, apprenticeship, teaching, or trainee experiences will not be counted as relevant experience.

ADA Project Assistant-I Age Limit

Maximum Age Reckoning Date Age Relaxation
28 years 13.08.2026 (closing date of registration) Relaxation is available as per rules for SC/ST/OBC (Non-Creamy Layer) candidates

The specific duration of age relaxation for SC/ST/OBC-NCL candidates is not provided in the announcement. Candidates are encouraged to consult the applicable Government of India guidelines or contact the ADA for further clarification.

Before submitting an application, candidates should confirm their compliance with the age requirements. Utilize our age calculator for accurate age determination as per the official cut-off date.

ADA Project Assistant-I Stipend

Selected candidates will receive a monthly stipend as delineated below, along with a House Rent Allowance (HRA) in accordance with the relevant regulations.

Candidate Category Monthly Stipend
Candidates with only B.E/B.Tech (First Class) Rs. 31,000/- per month + HRA according to rules
All other candidates (higher qualification/experience pathways) Rs. 37,000/- per month + HRA according to rules

ADA Project Assistant-I Tenure

The selected candidates will be engaged initially for a duration of two years, with the opportunity to extend for an additional two years (one year at a time), contingent on satisfactory performance as assessed by a Review Committee. This engagement is tenure-based and does not confer any rights to ongoing placement, absorption, or regularization within the ADA.

ADA Project Assistant-I Application Fee

According to the official notification, there is no application or registration fee necessary for this recruitment.

ADA Project Assistant-I Important Dates

Event Date
Notification Release Date 03.08.2026
Online Registration Closing Date 13.08.2026, 1700 hrs
Cut-off Date for Qualification & Age 13.08.2026
Tentative Written Test Dates 16.08.2026, 23.08.2026, or 30.08.2026 (dates may change based on candidate registrations; final dates will be updated on the ADA website)

ADA Project Assistant-I Selection Process

The selection approach is based on the qualification pathway under which a candidate qualifies:

  • Interview Only: This option is available for candidates possessing a valid GATE score, those with an M.E/M.Tech from an IIT/NIT, or candidates from Computer Science and Electronics & Communication Engineering who have a B.Sc + M.Sc with a valid GATE/NET score.
  • Shortlisting by Written Test followed by Interview: This applies to candidates qualifying through other pathways such as B.E/B.Tech with an M.E/M.Tech, B.E/B.Tech with two years of relevant experience, or candidates with purely B.E/B.Tech qualifications.

The written test will follow a syllabus similar to GATE for the relevant discipline and will implement negative marking for incorrect responses. Candidates should bring a scientific calculator to the test. Both assessments will occur in Bangalore, on dates to be confirmed based on the number of registered applicants.

ADA Project Assistant-I Documents Required

  • Completed application form (in the prescribed format) with a recent passport-size photograph affixed to the first page's upper right corner.
  • Original and self-attested copies of relevant certificates/documents for qualifications, experience, and caste (if applicable).
  • Self-attested English transcripts for any documents in languages other than English.
  • Original Aadhaar Card.
  • No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the current employer for candidates presently working with Government departments/PSUs/Autonomous Bodies.
  • Proof of relevant experience if claimed.
  • Verification of valid GATE/NET score where applicable.

How to Apply for ADA Project Assistant-I Recruitment 2026

  1. Visit the official ADA website at https://ada.gov.in to register for the Project Assistant-I positions, selecting the appropriate Engineering Discipline and qualification criteria.
  2. Complete the online registration by 13th August 2026, 1700 hrs.
  3. Fill out the application form in the required format, affixing a recent passport-size photograph in the designated area, and gather all supporting documents in original and self-attested formats.
  4. Regularly check the ADA website for updates regarding the confirmed dates for the written test/interview, as the preliminary dates (16th, 23rd, or 30th August 2026) may be reshuffled based on registration numbers.
  5. Attend the written test/interview in Bangalore on the specified date, armed with the completed application form, originals and self-attested documents, Aadhaar card, scientific calculator for the test, and NOC if currently employed in a Government department/PSU/Autonomous Body.

Please note: Merely registering online does not complete your application. Candidates must present a duly filled application form along with all required documents when showing up for the written test/interview.

ADA Project Assistant-I Important Instructions

  • Applications are open only to Indian nationals.
  • Engagement is temporary and does not guarantee continuation, absorption, or regularization within ADA.
  • ADA holds the right to adjust the selection panel across disciplines for existing and projected vacancies for six months, as needed.
  • Age and qualifications will be considered as of 13th August 2026.
  • Possession of electronic gadgets such as mobile phones, pen drives, or smartwatches is strictly forbidden at ADA venues for the written test.
  • Travel allowance or daily allowances will not be paid for attending the interview/written test.
  • Any misrepresentation or misconduct detected at any stage of the selection process may lead to immediate cancellation of candidature and may result in legal consequences.
  • Experience from part-time roles and apprenticeships will not be considered relevant.
  • Only registered candidates will be eligible to attend the written test/interview, but registration must be complemented by submitting a complete application.

ADA Project Assistant-I Important Links

Individuals with an engineering degree are encouraged to explore additional Engineering Government Jobs and Defence PSU openings throughout India. Candidates holding a valid GATE score should also check for the latest job opportunities that specifically utilize GATE scores for screening. Applicants residing in the Bangalore area may find relevant Karnataka Government Jobs. Those with an M.E/M.Tech from an IIT/NIT or applicable industry experience can look into more M.Tech Government Jobs and roles related to Research and Project Assistance.

DRDO ADA Project Assistant I Recruitment 2026 - FAQs

What is the ADA Project Assistant-I Recruitment 2026?

This is a recruitment notification (Advt No. ADA:ADV-138:2026) issued by the Aeronautical Development Agency, Ministry of Defence, to engage 111 Project Assistant-I positions on a temporary basis across seven engineering disciplines.

How many Project Assistant-I vacancies are available?

There are a total of 111 tentative vacancies, which include 15 positions in Computer Science Engineering, 20 in Electronics & Communication Engineering, 10 in Aeronautical Engineering, 20 in Electrical & Electronics Engineering, 43 in Mechanical Engineering, 1 in Metallurgy Engineering, and 2 in Civil Engineering.

What is the last date for registration in the ADA Project Assistant-I Recruitment 2026?

Online registration will close on 13th August 2026 at 1700 hrs.

What is the age limit for the ADA Project Assistant-I position?

The maximum age limit is 28 years as of 13th August 2026. Age relaxation is available for SC/ST/OBC (Non-Creamy Layer) candidates according to existing rules.

What qualifications are required for the ADA Project Assistant-I position?

Candidates must possess a First Class B.E/B.Tech (or its equivalent, relevant to the discipline) from a recognized university, with alternatives that include a valid GATE/NET score, M.E/M.Tech from an IIT/NIT, or relevant experience based on the discipline.

What stipend can ADA Project Assistant-I candidates expect?

Candidates with solely a B.E/B.Tech (First Class) will receive ₹31,000/- per month plus HRA, whereas those with higher qualifications or relevant experience will receive ₹37,000/- per month plus HRA, following rules.

What is the tenure of the ADA Project Assistant-I engagement?

The initial engagement lasts for two years, with the option of extending for up to two additional years based on performance evaluations by a Review Committee.

What is the selection process for the ADA Project Assistant-I Recruitment 2026?

The selection process is determined by the qualification pathway a candidate falls under, involving either an interview or a combination of a written test followed by an interview.

Where will the ADA written test/interview take place?

Both the written test and the interview will be conducted in Bangalore, with specific dates to be announced on the ADA website based on the number of candidates.

Is there any application fee for the ADA Project Assistant-I Recruitment 2026?

No application or registration fee is mentioned in the official notification.

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