The CSIR CFTRI Technician 1 Selection Process 2026 helps the institute choose suitable candidates for technical posts. Candidates should check the eligibility criteria, exam pattern, syllabus, and other important details before applying. Knowing these details will help them prepare for the exam and avoid mistakes while filling out the application form.
The Council of Scientific and Industrial Research–Central Food Technological Research Institute (CSIR-CFTRI) is a research institute located in Mysuru, Karnataka. It works under the Ministry of Science and Technology, Government of India, and conducts research on food technology.
CSIR-CFTRI Technician Recruitment Overview
The CSIR-CFTRI Technician Recruitment 2026 overview highlights key recruitment details.
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Organization | CSIR – Central Food Technological Research Institute (CFTRI) |
| Post Name | Technician (1) |
| Pay Level | Pay Level 2 (₹19,900 – ₹63,200) as per 7th CPC |
| Initial Gross Emoluments | Approx. ₹34,000 – ₹38,000 per month (including HRA, DA, TA) |
| Total Vacancies | 28 Posts (Subject to official notification updates) |
| Job Location | Mysuru, Karnataka (or any CSIR-CFTRI campus/resource centre) |
| Selection Mode | Trade Test / Skill Test followed by a Written Examination |
| Starting Date | 19-10-2026 (from 10:00 A.M.) |
| Last Date for Submission of Online Applications | 18-11-2026 (up to 11:59 P.M.) |
| Last Date for Receipt of Hard Copy | 26-11-2026 |
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the Technician (1) post, candidates must meet the general eligibility standards as well as trade-specific educational qualifications.
| Post Code | Trade Name | Total Posts | Category Breakdown & Reservations | Essential Qualification (Any ONE of the following) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| TE01 | Fitter | 6 | UR: 2; EWS: 1; SC: 1; OBC(NCL): 2. (01 post reserved for ESM) | Option A: SSC / 10th Standard (or equivalent) with Science subjects (min. 55% marks) + ITI / National / State Trade Certificate in Fitter. Option B: SSC / 10th Standard (or equivalent) with Science subjects (min. 55% marks) + 2 years full-time experience as an apprentice trainee from a recognized institution as a Fitter. Option C: SSC / 10th Standard (or equivalent) with Science subjects (min. 55% marks) + 3 years’ work experience as a Fitter in a Govt. Ministry / Dept / PSU / Autonomous Body. |
| TE02 | Electronics Mechanic | 7 | UR: 4; EWS: 1; SC: 1; OBC(NCL): 1. (01 post each reserved for ESM & PwBD-Category “c”) | Option A: SSC / 10th Standard (or equivalent) with Science subjects (min. 55% marks) + ITI / National / State Trade Certificate in Electronics Mechanic. Option B: SSC / 10th Standard (or equivalent) with Science subjects (min. 55% marks) + 2 years of full-time experience as an apprentice trainee from a recognized institution in Electronics Mechanic. Option C: SSC / 10th Standard (or equivalent) with Science subjects (min. 55% marks) + 3 years’ work experience as an Electronics Mechanic in a Govt. Ministry / Dept / PSU / Autonomous Body. |
| TE03 | Instrument Mechanic | 1 | OBC(NCL): 1 | Option A: SSC / 10th Standard (or equivalent) with Science subjects (min. 55% marks) + ITI / National / State Trade Certificate in Instrument Mechanic. Option B: SSC / 10th Standard (or equivalent) with Science subjects (min. 55% marks) + 2 years full-time experience as an apprentice trainee from a recognized institution in Instrument Mechanic. Option C: SSC / 10th Standard (or equivalent) with Science subjects (min. 55% marks) + 3 years work experience in Instrument Mechanic in a Govt. Ministry / Dept / PSU / Autonomous Body. |
| TE04 | Laboratory Assistant (Chemical Plant) | 2 | UR: 1; SC: 1 | Option A: SSC / 10th Standard (or equivalent) with Science subjects (min. 55% marks) + ITI / National / State Trade Certificate in Laboratory Assistant (Chemical Plant). Option B: SSC / 10th Standard (or equivalent) with Science subjects (min. 55% marks) + 2 years full-time experience as an apprentice trainee from a recognized institution in Laboratory Assistant (Chemical Plant). Option C: SSC / 10th Standard (or equivalent) with Science subjects (min. 55% marks) + 3 years work experience in Laboratory Assistant (Chemical Plant) in a Govt. Ministry / Dept / PSU / Autonomous Body. |
| TE05 | Computer Operator and Programming Assistant (COPA) | 2 | UR: 1; OBC(NCL): 1. (01 post reserved for PwBD-Category “b”) | Option A: SSC / 10th Standard (or equivalent) with Science subjects (min. 55% marks) + ITI / National / State Trade Certificate in COPA. Option B: SSC / 10th Standard (or equivalent) with Science subjects (min. 55% marks) + 2 years full-time experience as an apprentice trainee from a recognized institution in COPA. Option C: SSC / 10th Standard (or equivalent) with Science subjects (min. 55% marks) + 3 years work experience in COPA in a Govt. Ministry / Dept / PSU / Autonomous Body. |
| TE06 | Information & Communication Technology System Maintenance | 1 | OBC(NCL): 1 | Option A: SSC / 10th Standard (or equivalent) with Science subjects (min. 55% marks) + ITI / National / State Trade Certificate in ICTSM. Option B: SSC / 10th Standard (or equivalent) with Science subjects (min. 55% marks) + 2 years full-time experience as an apprentice trainee from a recognized institution in ICTSM. Option C: SSC / 10th Standard (or equivalent) with Science subjects (min. 55% marks) + 3 years work experience in ICTSM in a Govt. Ministry / Dept / PSU / Autonomous Body. |
| TE07 | Refrigeration & Air Conditioning Technician | 2 | SC: 1; OBC(NCL): 1 | Option A: SSC / 10th Standard (or equivalent) with Science subjects (min. 55% marks) + ITI / National / State Trade Certificate in RAC Technician. Option B: SSC / 10th Standard (or equivalent) with Science subjects (min. 55% marks) + 2 years full-time experience as an apprentice trainee from a recognized institution in RAC Technician. Option C: SSC / 10th Standard (or equivalent) with Science subjects (min. 55% marks) + 3 years work experience in RAC Technician in a Govt. Ministry / Dept / PSU / Autonomous Body. |
| TE08 | Electrician | 2 | EWS: 1; ST: 1 | Option A: SSC / 10th Standard (or equivalent) with Science subjects (min. 55% marks) + ITI / National / State Trade Certificate in Electrician. Option B: SSC / 10th Standard (or equivalent) with Science subjects (min. 55% marks) + 2 years full-time experience as an apprentice trainee from a recognized institution in Electrician. Option C: SSC / 10th Standard (or equivalent) with Science subjects (min. 55% marks) + 3 years’ work experience as an electrician in a Govt. Ministry / Dept / PSU / Autonomous Body. |
| TE09 | Carpenter | 1 | UR: 1 | Option A: SSC / 10th Standard (or equivalent) with Science subjects (min. 55% marks) + ITI / National / State Trade Certificate in Carpenter. Option B: SSC / 10th Standard (or equivalent) with Science subjects (min. 55% marks) + 2 years full-time experience as an apprentice trainee from a recognized institution in Carpenter. Option C: SSC / 10th Standard (or equivalent) with Science subjects (min. 55% marks) + 3 years work experience in Carpenter in a Govt. Ministry / Dept / PSU / Autonomous Body. |
| TE10 | Plumber | 1 | EWS: 1 | Option A: SSC / 10th Standard (or equivalent) with Science subjects (min. 55% marks) + ITI / National / State Trade Certificate in Plumber. Option B: SSC / 10th Standard (or equivalent) with Science subjects (min. 55% marks) + 2 years full-time experience as an apprentice trainee from a recognized institution in Plumber. Option C: SSC / 10th Standard (or equivalent) with Science subjects (min. 55% marks) + 3 years work experience in Plumber in a Govt. Ministry / Dept / PSU / Autonomous Body. |
| TE11 | Sheet Metal Worker | 1 | OBC(NCL): 1 | Option A: SSC / 10th Standard (or equivalent) with Science subjects (min. 55% marks) + ITI / National / State Trade Certificate in Sheet Metal Worker. Option B: SSC / 10th Standard (or equivalent) with Science subjects (min. 55% marks) + 2 years full-time experience as an apprentice trainee from a recognized institution in Sheet Metal Worker. Option C: SSC / 10th Standard (or equivalent) with Science subjects (min. 55% marks) + 3 years work experience in Sheet Metal Worker in a Govt. Ministry / Dept / PSU / Autonomous Body. |
| TE12 | Turner | 1 | EWS: 1 | Option A: SSC / 10th Standard (or equivalent) with Science subjects (min. 55% marks) + ITI / National / State Trade Certificate in Turner. Option B: SSC / 10th Standard (or equivalent) with Science subjects (min. 55% marks) + 2 years full-time experience as an apprentice trainee from a recognized institution in Turner. Option C: SSC / 10th Standard (or equivalent) with Science subjects (min. 55% marks) + 3 years work experience in Turner in a Govt. Ministry / Dept / PSU / Autonomous Body. |
| TE13 | Welder | 1 | OBC(NCL): 1 | Option A: SSC / 10th Standard (or equivalent) with Science subjects (min. 55% marks) + ITI / National / State Trade Certificate in Welder. Option B: SSC / 10th Standard (or equivalent) with Science subjects (min. 55% marks) + 2 years full-time experience as an apprentice trainee from a recognized institution in Welder. Option C: SSC / 10th Standard (or equivalent) with Science subjects (min. 55% marks) + 3 years work experience in Welder in a Govt. Ministry / Dept / PSU / Autonomous Body. |
Job Role: Selected candidates will provide technical support to scientific and technical staff and perform other duties assigned by the competent authority.
CSIR CFTRI Technician 1 Selection Process 2026
The CSIR CFTRI Technician 1 Selection Process 2026 is strictly merit-based and transparent. Candidates must pass both screening stages to be considered for final selection.
Selection Process at a Glance
- Stage 1: Screening and Trade Test — Qualifying in nature
- Stage 2: Written Examination — Merit-based ranking
- Final Stage: Selection List and Document Verification
Stage 1: Trade Test / Skill Test (Qualifying)
- Objective: To assess the practical competency, hands-on skill, and technical familiarity of the candidate in their respective ITI trade.
- Format: Practical performance test in laboratory or workshop settings.
- Nature: Qualifying only. Marks obtained in the Trade Test are not added to the final merit list, but candidates must pass the trade test to be shortlisted for Stage 2.
Stage 2: Competitive Written Examination
Candidates who qualify in the Trade Test are invited to appear for the Written Examination.
- Mode of Exam: OMR-Based / Computer-Based Objective Multiple Choice Examination.
- Medium of Exam: Hindi and English (except for the English Language section).
- Total Questions: 150 Questions.
- Total Time Duration: 2 Hours 30 Minutes (150 Minutes).
Written Exam Breakdown & Marking Scheme
The exam consists of three distinct papers conducted on the same day.
| Paper | Subject / Section | No. of Questions | Max Marks | Duration | Negative Marking |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paper-I | Mental Ability Test | 50 | 100 (2 marks per qn) | 1 Hour (60 mins) | NO negative marking |
| Paper-II | General Awareness | 25 | 75 (3 marks per qn) | 30 Minutes | 1 mark deduction per wrong answer |
| Paper-II | English Language | 25 | 75 (3 marks per qn) | — | 1 mark deduction per wrong answer |
| Paper-III | Trade Related Subject | 50 | 150 (3 marks per qn) | 1 Hour (60 mins) | 1 mark deduction per wrong answer |
Crucial Note on Paper Evaluation
- Paper-I is qualifying/screening in nature.
- Paper-II and Paper-III will only be evaluated for those candidates who secure the minimum qualifying benchmark set by the screening committee in Paper-I.
- The Final Merit List is prepared strictly based on the combined marks scored in Paper-II and Paper-III.
Comprehensive Syllabus & Pattern Breakdown
Paper-I: Mental Ability Test
Includes questions on general intelligence and analytical capabilities:
- General Intelligence & Reasoning
- Spatial Visualization & Orientation
- Arithmetical Reasoning & Problem Solving
- Coding-Decoding & Series Completion
- Visual Memory, Similarities & Differences
- Data Interpretation & Logical Deduction
Paper-II: General Awareness & English Language
- General Awareness: Current Affairs (National & International), General Science, History, Culture, Indian Geography, Indian Polity, Basic Indian Economy, and Scientific Research developments in India.
- English Language: Grammar, Vocabulary, Synonyms & Antonyms, Sentence Correction, Reading Comprehension, Idioms & Phrases, and Fill in the Blanks.
Paper-III: Subject / Trade Specific
This paper tests core theoretical knowledge based on the standard syllabus prescribed by the Directorate General of Training (DGT) / NCVT for the respective ITI trades:
- Electrician/Wireman: Circuit theories, Transformers, AC/DC Machines, Wiring, Safety measures, Measuring instruments.
- Fitter/Machinist: Workshop safety, Precision measuring instruments, Lathe operations, Milling, Tolerances, Fits & Limits.
- Electronics/COPA: Fundamentals of Electronics, Programming concepts, Hardware troubleshooting, Networking basics, OS.
- RAC: Principles of refrigeration, Compressors, Condensers, Leak testing, Gas charging.
How to Apply: Step-by-Step Guide
Applications for the CSIR CFTRI Technician 1 Selection Process 2026 are submitted through the official portal.
- Step 1: Online Registration
- Step 2: Fill in Personal and Educational Details
- Step 3: Upload Required Documents
- Step 4: Pay the Application Fee
- Step 5: Submit the Form and Send a Hard Copy, if Required
Steps to Submit Online Application
- Visit Official Website: Go to the recruitment portal at cftri.res.in.
- Registration: Click on “Recruitment / Careers” and register using a valid email ID and mobile number.
- Fill Application Details: Input personal particulars, educational qualifications, trade details, category details, and work experience.
Upload Scanned Documents:
- Recent passport-size photograph (JPG/PNG).
- Signature.
- 10th Class Mark Sheet / Birth Certificate (Age Proof).
- ITI Certificate / NTC / STC / National Apprenticeship Certificate.
- Caste / Category / EWS / PwBD / Ex-Servicemen Certificate (if applicable).
- Experience Certificates (if applicable).
- Fee Payment: Pay the application fee of ₹500/- (Online mode).
- Exemption: SC/ST/PwBD/Women/CSIR Departmental Candidates are exempted from paying the application fee.
- Final Submission: Review all entries and submit the online application form.
- Hard Copy Submission (Important): Check the detailed advertisement notification—if hard-copy submission is mandated, print the submitted application form, attach self-attested document copies, write “Application for the post of Technician (1) – Trade: [Your Trade]” on the envelope, and send it to the Controller of Administration, CSIR-CFTRI, Mysuru – 570020 before the stipulated deadline.
Salary, Allowances, and Career Progression
Monthly Remuneration
Selected Technicians join under Pay Level 2 of the 7th Central Pay Commission (CPC) Pay Matrix.
- Pay Scale: ₹19,900 – ₹63,200
- Basic Pay: ₹19,900
Allowances Included:
- Dearness Allowance (DA)
- House Rent Allowance (HRA) as applicable for Mysuru (Y-Class City)
- Transport Allowance (TA)
- Medical Reimbursement & Benefits under CGHS/CSIR Medical Rules
- Pension Benefits under the National Pension System (NPS)
Total initial gross emoluments are approximately ₹34,000 – ₹38,000/month.
Promotional Avenues
CSIR provides a well-structured Assessment Promotion Scheme (MANAS) for technical staff:
- Technician (1) [Pay Level 2]
- Technician (2) [Pay Level 4]
- Senior Technician (1) [Pay Level 5]
- Senior Technician (2) [Pay Level 6]
- Technical Assistant / Technical Officer (Through merit and internal assessments)
Conclusion
The CSIR-CFTRI Technician (1) Recruitment 2026 is an opportunity for eligible ITI-qualified candidates to work in a government research institute. Before applying, candidates should check the required qualifications, age limit, and selection procedure to ensure they meet the eligibility conditions. The selection process includes application screening, a Trade Test, and a written examination.
Applicants should also pay attention to the educational requirements and relevant trade qualifications or experience specified in the notification. The CSIR CFTRI Technician 1 Selection Process 2026 requires candidates to submit the online form and send a signed hard copy along with the necessary self-attested documents by 26 November 2026. Candidates should complete both steps on time and prepare well for the Trade Test and written examination to improve their readiness for the selection process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Is there any negative marking in the CSIR-CFTRI Technician exam?
Answer: Yes, but only in Paper-II and Paper-III. Each wrong answer in Paper-II and Paper-III results in a deduction of 1 mark. There is no negative marking in Paper-I (Mental Ability Test).
Q2: Can candidates with a Diploma in Engineering apply for the Technician post?
Answer: Higher qualifications like a Diploma or B.E./B.Tech can generally be considered only if the candidate also fulfills the basic essential qualification (10th + ITI / Trade Certificate / Apprenticeship in the required trade). Check the specific trade advertisement guidelines.
Q3: Is the Trade Test qualifying in nature?
Answer: Yes. The Trade Test is purely qualifying. You must pass it to proceed to the Written Test, but its marks do not contribute to the final merit ranking.
Q4: How is the final selection merit list prepared?
Answer: The final selection list is prepared strictly on the basis of total marks scored by candidates in Paper-II and Paper-III combined, provided the candidate has qualified in Paper-I and the Trade Test.

