Welcome to the comprehensive job description for the CSIR – Central Mechanical Engineering Research Institute (CSIR CMERI) Project Staff Recruitment 2026. This document provides detailed information about the available vacancies, eligibility criteria, selection process, application procedure, salary structure, and other essential guidelines to help candidates understand the opportunities and requirements for these temporary research positions. Interested candidates are encouraged to review this information thoroughly and prepare accordingly for the walk-in interviews scheduled on 16th and 17th March 2026.
CSIR CMERI Project Staff Recruitment 2026 – Overview and Basic Details
The CSIR – Central Mechanical Engineering Research Institute located in Durgapur has announced a recruitment drive for various project-based positions under multiple sponsored research projects. This initiative aims to engage talented and qualified individuals in cutting-edge research in disciplines such as robotics, digital manufacturing, electric mobility, clean energy, and hydrogen technologies.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Organization | CSIR – Central Mechanical Engineering Research Institute (CSIR CMERI), Durgapur |
| Official Advertisement Number | PRCT/01/2026 |
| Recruitment Year | 2026 |
| Total Vacancies | 42 project staff posts |
| Mode of Application | Walk-in Interview |
| Interview Venue | CSIR CMERI, Mahatma Gandhi Avenue, Durgapur – 713209, West Bengal |
| Job Type | Temporary, project-based, co-terminous with the specific project duration |
| Application Window | Walk-in interviews scheduled on 16th and 17th March 2026 |
| Website for Details | Official CSIR CMERI Website |
Research Focus Areas at CSIR CMERI
CSIR CMERI’s research extends across an array of innovative fields, providing practical R&D exposure to young engineers and researchers. These areas include:
- Intelligent autonomous systems and robotics
- Digital manufacturing processes
- Smart farm machinery
- Electric mobility and vehicle systems
- Clean energy technologies including hydrogen systems
- Development of electric vehicles and associated power electronics
Vacancy Details – Post-wise Breakdown
The following table summarizes the available posts, their codes, the total number of vacancies, and the projected tenure of each position based on the official recruitment notification.
| Post Name | Indicative Post Codes | Total Posts | Project Duration (Up to) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Project Assistant-II | P-2609 to P-2615 (various) | 42 | 30.06.2026 – 31.03.2028 |
| Project Associate-I | P-2616 to P-2624, others | Varies (project-wise) | 2026–2028 |
| Project Associate-II | P-2627, P-2636, P-2637, P-2640, etc. | Varies | up to 2027–2029 |
| Project JRF / Project SRF | P-2625, P-2626, P-2629, P-2630, etc. | Varies | up to 2027 |
| Senior Project Associate | P-2628, P-2635, P-2638 to P-2644, etc. | Varies | generally up to 2027 |
| Project Scientist / Project Research Scientist | P-2628, P-2631, P-2632, etc. | Varies | generally up to 2026–2027 |
Exact distribution of vacancies across different disciplines and post codes can be found in the official advertisement PDF linked here: Download CSIR CMERI Recruitment 2026 PDF.
Eligibility Criteria for CSIR CMERI 2026
Educational Qualifications
| Post | Minimum Qualification |
|---|---|
| Project Assistant-II | 3-year Diploma in Engineering/Technology in relevant branches (Mechanical, Electrical, Electronics, Agricultural, Manufacturing, Automobile, etc.) OR B.Sc. in Physics/Chemistry (for specific posts) |
| Project Associate-I | Bachelor’s degree in Engineering/Technology or Master’s degree in Physics/Electronics/Computer Science/Data Science, as specified |
| Project Associate-II | B.E./B.Tech/M.E./M.Tech with minimum 2 years’ R&D experience or higher qualification with equivalent experience |
| Project JRF / SRF | Graduate/Postgraduate degree in relevant Engineering/Science with CSIR-UGC NET/GATE or similar; SRF must have at least 2 years research experience post-qualification |
| Senior Project Associate / Project Scientist | B.E./B.Tech with 3–6 years’ R&D experience or M.E./M.Tech with 2–4 years, or PhD in relevant disciplines |
Age Limits
- Project Assistant, Associate I & II, JRF, Research Scientist: Up to 35 years
- SRF: Up to 32 years
- Senior Project Associate / Principal Project Associate / Project Scientist-I: Up to 40 years (some posts may have age limits of 35 years)
Age relaxation is applicable as per government norms: 5 years for SC/ST/PwBD/Women candidates and 3 years for OBC candidates.
Experience Requirements
The experience criteria vary based on the post:
- Fresher posts (e.g., Project Assistant-II, Associate-I): No prior experience required; exposure to relevant tools/software is desirable.
- Experienced posts (e.g., Associate-II, SRF, Scientist): 2–6 years of relevant R&D experience in academic, industrial, or research settings.
Desirable Skills and Domain Knowledge
Candidates with proficiency in CAD/CAE tools such as AutoCAD, SolidWorks, CATIA, ANSYS, Abaqus, MATLAB/Simulink, programming languages like Python, and expertise in areas like robotics, machine learning, electric mobility, hydrogen energy, CFD, FEA, embedded systems, and image/signal processing will have an added advantage during shortlisting and interviews.
Selection Process at CSIR CMERI 2026
The selection process is entirely walk-in based. No written examination or online test will be conducted. The process includes:
- Screening: Based on eligibility, educational qualifications, experience, and possessive skills.
- Personal Interview: Technical knowledge assessment, research aptitude, communication skills, and overall suitability evaluation.
- Document Verification: Original certificates, mark sheets, experience letters, category certificates, and identity proofs.
Final merit will be determined considering interview performance and overall criteria. Results will be published on the official website and communicated via email. No negative marking or online testing is involved.
How to Apply for CSIR CMERI 2026 – Application Process
Step-by-step Application Procedure
- Visit the official CSIR CMERI website at https://www.cmeri.res.in and navigate to the Recruitment or Career section.
- Download the prescribed Application Form for the relevant posts as per Advertisement No. PRCT/01/2026.
- Fill in all personal details, educational qualifications, experience, and clearly mention the post code(s).
- Attach self-attested photocopies of all required documents including age proof, educational certificates, experience certificates, category certificates, and a recent passport-sized photograph.
- Affix a fresh passport-size photograph in the form, carry additional photographs for the interview, and prepare all original documents for verification.
- Attend the walk-in interview at the specified venue on 16th or 17th March 2026, with the completed application form, original documents, and photocopies.
Note: No online submissions are required, and no TA/DA will be paid for attending the interview.
Important Dates for CSIR CMERI 2026 Recruitment
| Event | Date | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Walk-in Interview – Day 1 | 16 March 2026 | Interview for posts P-2609 to P-2615 and others; reporting as per schedule |
| Walk-in Interview – Day 2 | 17 March 2026 | Remaining post codes; candidates should check exact reporting time |
Salary Structure and Job Profile
The remuneration offered varies depending on the post and qualification, with consolidated monthly stipends as follows:
| Post | Monthly Salary (Rs.) | Additional Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Project Assistant-II | 20,000 (with 15% increment after 3 years) | Consolidated; tailored for diploma holders |
| Project Associate-I | 25,000 / 31,000 (NET/GATE qualified) | Depending on qualification and qualification exam |
| Project Associate-II | 28,000 / 35,000 (NET/GATE qualified) | Experience enhances salary |
| Project JRF | 31,000 – 37,000 approx. | Based on project norms |
| Project SRF & Senior Project Associate | Rs. 42,000 | Fixed stipend |
| Project Scientist / Research Scientist | Rs. 56,000 | Project-based engagement |
Conditions and General Guidelines
The engagement under CSIR CMERI is purely temporary, limited to project duration, and does not guarantee permanent employment. Candidates should note the following:
- Positions are co-terminous with project tenures; extension depends on project progress.
- Numerical variations in vacancies may occur at the time of interview.
- Candidates who have completed or will complete six years in CSIR projects are not eligible for further engagement.
- No TA/DA is provided for attending the interview; candidates should plan accordingly.
- Proper NOC must be obtained from current employers if employed elsewhere.
- Final decisions on eligibility, selection, and tenure rest with CSIR CMERI authorities and are final.
Relevant Links and References
For detailed information, official notification, and application forms, visit the following link: CSIR CMERI Recruitment 2026 PDF.
Stay updated on all recruitment notices and announcements by visiting the CSIR CMERI official website regularly.