CSIR NML Recruitment 2026: Walk-in for 48 Project Assistant & Associate Posts

CSIR NML Recruitment 2026: Overview & Key Opportunities

The CSIR-National Metallurgical Laboratory (CSIR NML), Jamshedpur, has issued Advertisement No. T/PS/04/2026 dated 22 September 2026, inviting eligible candidates for a walk-in recruitment drive to fill 48 project staff positions across 32 time-bound research projects. This is a significant opportunity for candidates with qualifications ranging from 10th + ITI to Ph.D., offering roles such as Project Assistant-I, Project Assistant-II, Scientific Administrative Assistant, Project Associate-I, Project Associate-II, Project-JRF, and Project Scientist-I. The engagement is purely temporary and contractual, co-terminus with the respective project, and is not a regular CSIR appointment. The walk-in interviews will be held from 06 to 09 October 2026 at CSIR-NML, Burmamines, Jamshedpur. Candidates must appear in person with a filled application form, original certificates, and self-attested photocopies. There is no online or postal application mode. This recruitment is ideal for fresh graduates, diploma holders, ITI certificate holders, and experienced researchers looking to gain valuable R&D experience in a premier national laboratory. The emoluments range from ₹18,000 to ₹77,000 plus HRA, depending on the position and project. With a wide spectrum of disciplines—metallurgy, mechanical, chemical, electronics, instrumentation, geology, chemistry, and IT—this drive offers diverse opportunities for technical and scientific talent. Interested candidates should carefully review the project-wise eligibility and interview schedule to ensure they attend the correct group on the designated date.

CSIR NML Notification Highlights 2026

• Organization: CSIR-National Metallurgical Laboratory (CSIR NML), Jamshedpur
• Advertisement No.: T/PS/04/2026 (File No. 2-NML(199)/2026-E.I)
• Notification Date: 22 September 2026
• Total Positions: 48 across 32 projects
• Posts: Project Assistant-I (PA-I), Project Assistant-II (PA-II), Scientific Administrative Assistant (SAA), Project Associate-I (PAT-I), Project Associate-II (PAT-II), Project-JRF, Project Scientist-I (PS-I)
• Nature of Engagement: Purely temporary, contract basis, co-terminus with project
• Selection Mode: Walk-in Interview/Test (written screening if candidate volume is high)
• Interview Dates: 06–09 October 2026 (group-wise)
• Reporting Time: 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
• Venue: CSIR-NML, Burmamines, Jamshedpur-831007, Jharkhand
• Emoluments: ₹18,000 – ₹77,000 + HRA (post-wise)
• Upper Age Limit: 28–50 years (post-wise, relaxable as per rules)
• Application Mode: Walk-in only; no online or postal applications accepted

About National Metallurgical Laboratory (CSIR NML)

The National Metallurgical Laboratory (CSIR NML) is a premier constituent laboratory of the Council of Scientific & Industrial Research (CSIR), Government of India. Established in 1950, it is located in Burmamines, Jamshedpur, Jharkhand. CSIR-NML is dedicated to research and development in metallurgy, materials science, and allied engineering fields. The laboratory conducts cutting-edge research in areas such as mineral processing, extractive metallurgy, advanced materials, corrosion, and environmental science. It also provides technical services and consultancy to industries. Working at CSIR-NML offers a dynamic research environment with state-of-the-art facilities, experienced mentors, and opportunities to contribute to national projects. The project staff positions are ideal for those seeking hands-on R&D experience in a reputed national laboratory. The engagement is project-based and temporary, but it provides a valuable platform for skill development and career advancement in the scientific and technical domains.

CSIR NML Vacancy Details & Post Breakdown 2026

The recruitment covers 48 positions distributed across 32 projects. The posts are categorized into different levels based on qualifications and responsibilities. Below is a detailed breakdown of the positions, their total vacancies, and the essential qualifications. Candidates must ensure they meet the exact requirements for the project they wish to apply for.

Note: The above vacancy numbers are indicative and derived from the project-wise list. The exact number of positions per post may vary. Candidates should refer to the official notification for the precise project-wise distribution.

Category-Wise Vacancy Reservation for CSIR NML 2026

The official notification does not provide a detailed category-wise break-up of the 48 positions. As per government norms, reservation rules apply to project staff recruitment in CSIR laboratories. Candidates belonging to SC/ST/OBC/PwBD categories are encouraged to apply and will be given age relaxation as per rules. For specific reservation details, candidates should refer to the official notification or contact the CSIR-NML administration.

Educational Qualification & Eligibility Criteria for CSIR NML 2026

The essential qualifications vary by post and project. Candidates must possess the required degree/diploma/ITI certificate from a recognized institution. The qualifications are summarized below:

Project Assistant-I (PA-I)

10th pass with ITI certificate in relevant trade such as Fitter, Turner, or Electrician. The ITI trade must be relevant to the project requirements.

Project Assistant-II (PA-II)

Three-year Diploma in Engineering (Mechanical, Metallurgical, Materials, Electronics) or Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in Chemistry, Geology, IT, or BCA. Some projects may accept alternate qualifications as specified.

Scientific Administrative Assistant (SAA)

B.Sc. in IT or BCA. Proficiency in MS Office and DBMS is desirable.

Project Associate-I (PAT-I)

B.Tech in Metallurgical, Materials, Mechanical, Chemical, Electronics, Electrical Engineering, or M.Sc. in Chemistry, Geology, Environmental Science. For some projects, NET/GATE qualification is preferred.

Project Associate-II (PAT-II)

M.Sc. or M.Tech in relevant discipline with at least 2 years of research and development experience. Candidates with NET/GATE may receive higher emoluments.

Project-JRF

B.Tech in Metallurgical, Chemical, Mechanical Engineering with valid NET/GATE qualification.

Project Scientist-I (PS-I)

Ph.D. in Geology with 2 years of experience and at least 2 SCI publications.

Experience: For PAT-II and PS-I, relevant R&D experience is mandatory. Desirable experience may include MATLAB, finite element analysis, Eddy Current/Ultrasonic NDE, DIY kit development, etc. Candidates should check the official notification for project-specific requirements.

Age Limit & Category Relaxations

The upper age limit varies by post and is reckoned as on the scheduled date of interview for the respective group. The age limits are as follows:

• Project Assistant-I (PA-I): 35 years
• Project Assistant-II (PA-II): 35 years
• Scientific Administrative Assistant (SAA): 50 years
• Project-JRF: 28 years
• Project Associate-I (PAT-I): 35 years (50 years for ANRF project)
• Project Associate-II (PAT-II): 35 years
• Project Scientist-I (PS-I): 50 years

Age Relaxation: Upper age limit is relaxable by 5 years for SC/ST/PwBD/Women and 3 years for OBC candidates. The cut-off date for age and qualification is the scheduled date of interview for that group.

Salary Details, Pay Scale & Perks

The emoluments are consolidated and vary by position. The pay structure is as follows:

In addition to the consolidated pay, HRA is applicable as per rules. The engagement does not include other benefits like DA, TA, or medical allowances unless specified. The positions are temporary and do not confer any right to regular employment.

CSIR NML Selection Process & Examination Phases 2026

The selection process for CSIR NML project staff is primarily through a walk-in interview. The steps are as follows:

1. Walk-in Interview/Test: Candidates must appear in person at the venue on the scheduled date and time. There is no separate written examination unless the number of candidates is very high.
2. Screening (if applicable): If a large number of candidates turn up for a project, a screening committee may shortlist candidates via a written test or other criteria. Only shortlisted candidates will be interviewed.
3. Document Verification: Candidates must bring all original certificates and self-attested photocopies for verification.
4. Final Selection: Based on interview performance and eligibility, the competent authority will make the final selection. The decision is final and binding.
5. Medical Examination: Selected candidates may need to undergo a medical examination as per CSIR norms.

There is no application fee for this recruitment. Candidates are advised to reach the venue well before the reporting time.

Application Fee Details

There is no application fee for any category. Candidates are not required to pay any amount for attending the walk-in interview. This applies to all candidates regardless of category.

Important Dates & Schedule

Required Documents for CSIR NML Application 2026

Candidates must bring the following documents to the walk-in interview:

• Filled application form (as per format in official notification)
• Original and self-attested photocopies of educational certificates (10th, 12th, Diploma, Degree, PG, Ph.D.)
• Original and self-attested photocopies of experience certificates (if applicable)
• Proof of date of birth (10th certificate or birth certificate)
• Valid ID proof (Aadhaar, PAN, Passport, etc.)
• Passport-size photographs (recent)
• Caste certificate (SC/ST/OBC) if applicable
• PwBD certificate if applicable
• NET/GATE scorecard if applicable
• Any other relevant documents as specified in the notification

How to Apply Online

There is no online application process for this recruitment. Candidates must attend the walk-in interview in person. Follow these steps:

1. Download the official notification and application form from the CSIR-NML website (nml.res.in).
2. Fill the application form completely and accurately.
3. Attach recent passport-size photograph and self-attested copies of all required documents.
4. Check the group-wise schedule and identify the correct date and time for your project.
5. Report to the venue: CSIR-NML, Burmamines, Jamshedpur-831007, Jharkhand, on the scheduled date between 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM.
6. Carry all original documents for verification.
7. Attend the interview/test as per the selection process.

Important Instructions & Guidelines for CSIR NML Applicants

• Candidates must ensure they meet the eligibility criteria for the project they are applying for. Qualifications and age will be reckoned as on the date of interview.
• No TA/DA will be paid for attending the walk-in interview.
• Candidates should bring all original documents and self-attested photocopies. Failure to produce documents may lead to disqualification.
• The engagement is purely temporary and co-terminus with the project. It does not confer any right to regular employment.
• Canvassing in any form will lead to disqualification.
• The decision of the competent authority is final and binding.
• Candidates should regularly check the CSIR-NML website for updates.

Job Location & Posting Details

The job location is CSIR-National Metallurgical Laboratory, Burmamines, Jamshedpur-831007, Jharkhand. The selected candidates will be posted at this location for the duration of the project. There is no provision for remote work or posting at other locations. The walk-in interview will also be held at the same venue.

Final Summary & Advice for Candidates

The CSIR NML Recruitment 2026 offers a valuable opportunity for candidates with diverse qualifications to work on research projects at a premier national laboratory. With 48 positions across 32 projects, there is a role for ITI holders, diploma holders, graduates, postgraduates, and Ph.D. holders. The selection is through a walk-in interview, so candidates must prepare well and attend the correct group on the scheduled date. Ensure you carry all required documents and reach the venue on time. Since the engagement is temporary, it is ideal for those seeking short-term research experience. Prepare for the interview by reviewing your subject knowledge and project requirements. Good luck!

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This article has been manually researched, cross-referenced with the official notification, and structured to provide verified, candidate-centric information.

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