Are you an experienced civil engineering professional seeking a senior management role in the infrastructure sector? The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has announced the recruitment of 6 Chief General Managers (Technical) under Group-A (Senior Management) positions. This comprehensive job opportunity offers a prestigious platform to lead major highway and infrastructure projects across India, with competitive pay, recognition, and significant responsibilities. Read on to understand all the details regarding eligibility, application procedures, selection process, and more.
National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) Chief General Manager (Technical) Recruitment 2026
Overview of the NHAI Recruitment
The NHAI, under the Ministry of Road Transport & Highways, invites applications for 6 positions of Chief General Manager (Technical). These posts are classified as Group-A (Senior Management) positions, offering a pay level of Level-14 in the Pay Matrix, ranging from Rs. 144,200 to Rs. 218,200 per month. The appointment process will be through promotion or deputation via a Search-cum-Selection Committee (SCSC).
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Organization | National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) |
| Ministry | Ministry of Road Transport & Highways |
| Post Name | Chief General Manager (Technical) |
| Number of Posts | 6 (may increase/decrease) |
| Pay Band | Level-14 in Pay Matrix (Rs. 144,200 – 218,200) |
| Application Opening Date | 07-02-2026 (10:00 AM) |
| Last Date to Apply | 06-03-2026 (6:00 PM) |
| Last Date for Printout Submission | 21-03-2026 |
| Official Website | www.nhai.gov.in |
Vacancy Details
The vacancies are open to qualified candidates from relevant backgrounds, with the following details:
| Post Name | Number of Posts | Classification |
|---|---|---|
| Chief General Manager (Technical) | 6 | Group-A |
Eligibility Criteria
Essential Qualifications & Experience (Applicable to Both Promotion & Deputation)
Candidates must meet the following educational and professional experience criteria:
- Educational Qualification: Bachelor’s Degree in Civil Engineering from a recognized University or Institute.
- Service Experience: At least 17 years of regular service in a post carrying a substantive pay scale of Level 10 of the Pay Matrix (Rs. 56,100 – 177,500) or an equivalent level or higher.
- Infrastructure Sector Experience: Out of the 17 years, minimum of 10 years should be in the implementation of infrastructure projects related to highways, roads, or bridges.
Desirable Qualifications
- Experience in handling Public Private Partnership (PPP) projects.
- Experience in mega highway and infrastructure development projects.
- Strong project management and execution skills.
Recruitment Routes
Route 1: Promotion (Internal NHAI Candidates)
Eligibility conditions include:
- Holding the post of General Manager (Technical) on a regular basis at NHAI.
- Minimum 3 years of regular service in the post of General Manager (Technical).
- Total 17 years of regular service in Level 10 or higher-level posts, with at least 10 years in highway/road/bridge infrastructure projects.
- One-time relaxation may be granted for counting deputation service as regular service as per NHAI regulations.
Route 2: Deputation (Government/PSUs/Institutions)
Eligibility includes:
From Central Government, State Governments, or Recognized Bodies
- Holding an analogous post at Level 14 (Rs. 144,200 to Rs. 218,200), or
- Possessing 3+ years in Level 13 (Rs. 123,100 to Rs. 215,900) with requisite experience.
From State PWD
- Bachelor’s Degree in Civil Engineering.
- Holding the post of Chief Engineer or at least 3 years as Superintending Engineer.
- 17 years of regular service in Level 10 or higher, with at least 10 years on infrastructure projects.
Age Limit
- For Deputation: Not exceeding 58 years as of 06-03-2026.
- Remaining Service: Candidates must have more than 2 years of service remaining before superannuation as of the application deadline.
Salary Structure and Benefits
| Component | Details |
|---|---|
| Pay Level | Level-14 (Rs. 144,200 – 218,200) |
| Basic Pay Range | Rs. 144,200 to Rs. 218,200/month |
| Dearness Allowance (DA) | As per Government of India norms |
| Other Allowances | Applicable as per Group-A central government posts |
| Pension & Benefits | According to Government of India rules |
Deputation Terms & Conditions
- Initial deputation period: 1 to 5 years (subject to approval).
- Extensions possible: 6th and 7th years with approvals from the Secretary or the Hon’ble Minister.
- Maximum deputation duration for officers from Central Engineering Service (Roads): Up to 10 years, ending on 31.12.2026; thereafter, up to 7 years.
- Deputation tenure already served will be credited towards total deputation period.
Selection Process
Role of Search-cum-Selection Committee (SCSC)
Selection will be conducted by a committee comprising senior government officials and NHAI representatives, ensuring a fair and merit-based process.
Evaluation Criteria
- Academic qualifications
- Professional experience
- Project management skills
- Track record in highway or infrastructure projects
- Overall suitability for the role
Interview & Final Selection
Shortlisted candidates may be called for interviews or interactions with the SCSC. The final selection will be purely merit-based.
Selected candidates must produce a fresh vigilance clearance before joining the position.
How to Apply
Step-by-Step Guide
- Visit the official NHAI website: www.nhai.gov.in.
- Navigate to the ‘Careers’ or ‘Recruitment’ section.
- Register or login to the portal.
- Fill in all required personal and professional information accurately, including:
- Personal details
- Educational qualifications
- Employment history
- Experience details in highway/infrastructure projects
- Current pay scale and designation
- Upload scanned copies of documents (preferably PDFs):
- Recent passport-sized photograph
- Degree certificates
- Service certificates
- Experience proofs
- Character and vigilance clearances
- Submit your application before the deadline: 06-03-2026 at 6:00 PM.
- Print a copy of the submitted application and send it through proper channel along with requisite documents from the parent department by 21-03-2026.
Documents Required
- Online application printout
- Service certificates showing total service, designations, and pay scales
- Educational certificates (B.Tech Civil Engineering)
- Proof of experience in infrastructure/highway projects
- Current pay proof
- Character certificate
- Vigilance clearance
- Medical fitness certificate (if applicable)
Important Instructions & Miscellaneous
- All-India Service Liability: Candidates willing to serve anywhere in India should apply.
- No Withdrawal: Once submitted, applications cannot be withdrawn. Acceptance of appointment is mandatory upon selection; refusal will restrict future NHAI appointments for 2 years.
- Age & Service Eligibility: Eligibility is based on the date 06-03-2026.
- Deputation Duration: Candidates must have over 2 years of service left before superannuation at the time of application.
- Previous Applicants: Those who applied under the previous notification (dated 03-07-2025) need not reapply; their candidature remains valid.
- Reservation & Disabilities: Candidates from SC/ST/OBC/EWS, women, and persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply. PwBD candidates with ≥40% disability will be considered on merit.
Important Links & Resources
Further Assistance
For queries and updates, candidates are advised to regularly check the official NHAI website and the recruitment notification. Stay connected with official channels for any date or process amendments.
This is an excellent opportunity for experienced civil engineers to take a significant leadership position in India’s highway infrastructure development. Prepare your application carefully by ensuring compliance with eligibility criteria and submitting all required documents within the stipulated deadlines.