Cabinet Secretariat DFO Technical Recruitment 2026 – Rs.1 Lakh Salary, Apply for 280 Posts

Cabinet Secretariat DFO Technical Recruitment 2026 is officially out under Advertisement No. 02/2026. The Government of India invites offline applications from Indian nationals holding a valid GATE score to fill 280 Deputy Field Officer (Technical) posts — Group ‘B’, Non-Gazetted, Pay Level 7. This guide is for engineering graduates and science postgraduates aged up to 30 who want a prestigious central government career with an approximate monthly emolument of Rs.1,00,000 including all allowances. We cover vacancies, eligibility, salary, step-by-step application process, and all important dates so you can apply before the closing date of 15 November 2026.

UPSSSC JE Electrical Recruitment 2026 – 380 Posts, Rs.35400 Salary, Apply Now

📋 Table of Contents

What is Cabinet Secretariat DFO Technical Recruitment 2026?

Cabinet Secretariat DFO Technical Recruitment 2026 is a direct recruitment drive by the Cabinet Secretariat, Government of India, to fill 280 vacancies in the grade of Deputy Field Officer (Technical) — a Group ‘B’, Non-Gazetted post at Pay Level 7 of the 7th Pay Commission Pay Matrix. Candidates are selected entirely on the basis of a valid GATE score in the relevant subject paper from GATE 2024, GATE 2025, or GATE 2026, followed by a personal interview.

The Cabinet Secretariat functions directly under the Prime Minister of India and is one of the most prestigious central government organisations. Deputy Field Officers (Technical) recruited here are deployed in field postings across India — positions that involve technical intelligence, communication infrastructure, and operational field duties. The post carries All India Transfer liability, meaning selected candidates can be posted anywhere in the country.

Lok Nayak Hospital Senior Resident Recruitment 2026 – Walk-in for 60 Posts

This recruitment is published as Advertisement No. 02/2026 in the Employment News dated 17–23 October 2026. Applications must reach the designated postal address by 15 November 2026. There is no online application portal — this is a fully offline, paper-based process. No application fee is applicable for any category.

Who Should Apply for Cabinet Secretariat DFO 2026?

This recruitment is best suited for technically qualified candidates who want a prestigious Group B central government career with an excellent pay package. Here are the profiles who should definitely apply:

• 🎓 B.E./B.Tech graduates in Computer Science, Electronics, Mechanical, Civil, or Chemical Engineering with a valid GATE 2024/25/26 score
• 🔬 M.Sc. holders in Physics, Mathematics, Statistics, or Data Science/AI with a qualifying GATE score in the relevant paper
• 💼 Fresh GATE qualifiers (2024, 2025, 2026) looking for government jobs without UPSC or SSC exams
• 🏛️ Central/State Government employees aged up to 30 years (age relaxation applicable) who want a lateral move to a prestigious organisation
• ⚔️ Ex-Servicemen eligible for age and category relaxation as per Central Government rules
• 🎯 SC/ST/OBC candidates eligible for statutory age relaxation — the post offers reservations under Central Government norms
• 📡 Data Science and AI engineers who cleared GATE DA 2024/25/26 — Cabinet Secretariat now accepts DA paper for the relevant vacancy
• 🌏 Candidates open to All India transfer liability and field postings in challenging environments

Subject-wise Vacancy Details (280 Posts)

The 280 vacancies under Cabinet Secretariat DFO Technical Recruitment 2026 are distributed across 9 subjects. Computer Science/IT and Electronics/Communication together account for the majority of posts. The table below shows the complete subject-wise breakdown along with the corresponding GATE paper code:

Key point: Candidates may apply for only one subject out of the above subject codes. You must hold the educational qualification (EQ) in the corresponding subject AND a valid GATE score in that subject’s paper. Applying for more than one subject code disqualifies the application.

Salary, Pay Scale and Benefits (Pay Level 7)

The Deputy Field Officer (Technical) post in Cabinet Secretariat sits at Pay Level 7 of the 7th Central Pay Commission Pay Matrix, which corresponds to the pre-revised pay scale of Rs.9,300–34,800 with Grade Pay Rs.4,600. The total monthly emoluments at the time of initial posting in New Delhi are approximately Rs.1,00,000 per month including all applicable allowances. This makes it one of the best-compensated Group B central government jobs accessible through GATE alone.

Beyond the salary, employees of the Cabinet Secretariat enjoy comprehensive government perquisites including government accommodation (subject to availability), free medical treatment under CGHS, Leave Travel Concession (LTC), Provident Fund contributions, pension under the National Pension System (NPS), and annual increments of 3% on basic pay. Given the All India Transfer liability, posting-specific allowances may vary by city category.

Eligibility Criteria – Age, Qualification and GATE Score

Candidates must fulfil all three eligibility conditions — age limit, educational qualification, and GATE score — as on the closing date of 15 November 2026. Missing any single criterion leads to summary rejection of the application.

Age Limit (as on 15.11.2026)

• General / UR: Maximum 30 years
• SC / ST: Maximum 35 years (5 years relaxation)
• OBC (Non-Creamy Layer): Maximum 33 years (3 years relaxation)
• Central Government Employees: Up to 40 years (10 years relaxation) as per DoPT orders
• Ex-Servicemen: As per Central Government rules (length of service + 3 years)

Educational Qualification (EQ)

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or Technology (B.E./B.Tech.) in the relevant subject, OR
• Master’s degree in Science (M.Sc.) in the relevant subject from a recognised University or Institution
• The EQ must be in the same subject as the GATE paper you are applying under

GATE Score Requirement

• Valid GATE Score from GATE 2024, GATE 2025, or GATE 2026 in the corresponding subject paper
• A “valid GATE score” means the candidate achieved the qualifying cut-off marks in GATE 2024, 2025, or 2026 in the relevant subject paper
• Candidates with GATE scores only from 2023 or earlier are NOT eligible for this recruitment cycle
• Candidates shortlisted (5 times the number of vacancies) on the basis of GATE score will be called for Interview

Application Fee

No application fee is required for any category. This is an entirely free application process.

How to Apply for Cabinet Secretariat DFO Technical 2026 – Step-by-Step

The application process is entirely offline. There is no online portal. Follow the steps below carefully to ensure your application is complete and reaches the designated address before the deadline:

1. Download the Notification and Application Form: Visit the official Cabinet Secretariat website at cabsec.gov.in or refer to the Employment News dated 17–23 October 2026 to access the official notification PDF and the prescribed application form.
2. Read the Notification Thoroughly: Before filling the form, read all instructions, eligibility conditions, and the list of required documents. Pay special attention to the subject code you are applying for — you can apply for only one subject.
3. Type the Application Form: The form must be typed on A-4 size paper in English CAPITAL (block) letters using Black or Blue ink. Handwritten applications are not accepted.
4. Affix Passport-size Photograph: Attach a recent, self-attested, passport-size coloured photograph on the application form in the designated space. Also attach two recent passport-size coloured photographs (with Name and Date of Birth on the back).
5. Attach All Required Documents (Self-Attested): Compile attested copies of Matriculation/10th certificate (proof of age), 10+2 certificate, B.E./B.Tech./M.Sc. mark sheets and certificates, valid GATE 2024/2025/2026 Score Card, Caste Certificate (Annexure-I or II if applicable), PAN Card, Aadhaar Card, Driving License or Passport (proof of age), NOC from current employer (if employed in Government service), and Discharge Certificate (for Ex-Servicemen).
6. Do Not Leave Any Column Blank: An application with any blank column or without a photograph or requisite certificates will be summarily rejected without any notice.
7. Write Subject Code on the Envelope: On the envelope, clearly mention the subject code (e.g., CS, EC, DA, PH, ME, CE, CY, MA, or ST) of the subject you are applying for.
8. Send by Ordinary Post Only: The envelope must be sent by ORDINARY POST only to: Post Bag No. 001, Lodhi Road Head Post Office, New Delhi – 110003. Do not send by courier, speed post, or registered post — these may not be accepted.
9. Ensure Receipt Before Closing Date: Applications must be received at the designated Post Bag address on or before 15 November 2026. Applications received after this date will not be entertained under any circumstances.

Cabinet Secretariat DFO vs SFO – Key Differences

The Cabinet Secretariat runs two GATE-based technical recruitment programmes — Deputy Field Officer (DFO) Technical and Senior Field Officer (SFO) Technical. Understanding the difference helps you decide which post aligns with your qualifications and career goals:

Pros and Cons of Cabinet Secretariat DFO Technical Post

Before applying, evaluate the full picture — both the genuine strengths and the realistic challenges of this role:

Advantages

• ✅ Prestigious organisation: Cabinet Secretariat reports directly to the PM’s Office — one of the most respected central government bodies
• ✅ Excellent salary: Rs.1,00,000/month (approx.) at entry level — comparable to many IT sector junior roles, but with full government job security
• ✅ No application fee: Zero cost to apply for any category
• ✅ GATE-only selection: No separate written exam — your existing GATE score is sufficient for shortlisting
• ✅ Comprehensive benefits: CGHS, LTC, NPS pension, government quarters (subject to availability), annual increments
• ✅ Multiple GATE years accepted: GATE 2024, 2025, and 2026 are all valid — gives broader eligibility

Disadvantages / Challenges

• ⚠️ All India Transfer liability: Selected candidates can be posted anywhere in India, including remote and difficult field locations
• ⚠️ Offline application only: Paper applications by ordinary post — no online portal, making tracking and confirmation difficult
• ⚠️ High competition in CS/EC: With 224 posts in CS and EC combined, thousands of GATE-qualified engineers apply — you need a competitive score
• ⚠️ Strict medical standards: Medical standard is as per Central Government guidelines applicable to Group B posts — some conditions may be disqualifying

Important Terms Related to Cabinet Secretariat DFO Recruitment 2026

Understanding these key terms helps you navigate the recruitment process and avoid common errors:

• GATE (Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering): A national-level examination conducted jointly by IISc and 7 IITs for admission to postgraduate programmes and PSU/government recruitment. Only GATE 2024, 2025, and 2026 scores are valid for this recruitment.
• Pay Level 7 (7th CPC): The pay band in the 7th Central Pay Commission Pay Matrix corresponding to an entry basic pay of Rs.44,900 per month, with annual increments of 3%.
• Group B Non-Gazetted: A government post category below Group A (gazetted officers) — the DFO post is Non-Gazetted, meaning the appointment letter is not published in the Gazette of India.
• All India Transfer Liability: A service condition under which the employee can be transferred to any post/location across India at the government’s discretion.
• Annexure-I / II (SC/ST/OBC Certificate): Caste certificates in the prescribed format from a competent authority required by SC/ST and OBC candidates for age relaxation and reservation benefits.
• NOC (No Objection Certificate): A certificate from the current employer required if the applicant is currently employed in Government service. Without NOC, the application may be rejected.
• EQ (Educational Qualification): The minimum educational degree (B.E./B.Tech. or M.Sc.) required in the specific subject for which the candidate is applying.
• Post Bag No. 001, Lodhi Road HO, New Delhi-110003: The designated postal address for submitting applications — all applications must reach this address by ordinary post only, on or before 15.11.2026.
• Shortlisting Ratio (5x): Candidates shortlisted for interview are 5 times the number of vacancies per subject — e.g., for 112 CS posts, up to 560 candidates may be called for interview, ranked by GATE score.
• Creamy Layer (OBC): OBC candidates whose family income exceeds the prescribed threshold are classified as Creamy Layer and are NOT eligible for OBC reservation benefits — they must apply under General category.

Important Dates and Timeline

Important Links

Conclusion

Cabinet Secretariat DFO Technical Recruitment 2026 (Advertisement No. 02/2026) is a rare and highly prestigious opportunity for GATE-qualified engineers and science postgraduates to secure a Group B central government post with a salary of approximately Rs.1,00,000 per month. With 280 vacancies across 9 disciplines — and no application fee — this is one of the best government job openings accessible through GATE 2024, 2025, or 2026 scores alone. Ensure your application is typed on A-4 paper, fully complete with all documents, and reaches Post Bag No. 001, Lodhi Road Head Post Office, New Delhi – 110003 by 15 November 2026. Do not delay — postal transit time from cities outside Delhi can take 5–10 days. Bookmark this page for any updates to the notification or interview schedule.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cabinet Secretariat DFO Technical Recruitment 2026

What is the total number of vacancies in Cabinet Secretariat DFO Technical Recruitment 2026?

The Cabinet Secretariat DFO Technical Recruitment 2026 (Adv. No. 02/2026) announces a total of 280 tentative vacancies for the post of Deputy Field Officer (Technical). These are distributed across 9 subjects: Computer Science/IT (112), Electronics/Communication/Telecommunication (112), Data Science/AI (10), Physics (05), Mechanical Engineering (04), Civil Engineering (03), Chemistry (02), Mathematics (01), and Statistics (01). Vacancies are tentative and subject to revision at the discretion of the Cabinet Secretariat.

What is the salary for Deputy Field Officer (Technical) in Cabinet Secretariat?

The Deputy Field Officer (Technical) post is at Pay Level 7 of the 7th CPC Pay Matrix, with an entry-level basic pay of Rs.44,900 per month. Including Dearness Allowance (DA), House Rent Allowance (HRA — 27% for New Delhi), and Transport Allowance, the total monthly emoluments at the time of initial posting in New Delhi are approximately Rs.1,00,000 per month. Annual increments of 3% on basic pay are applicable.

Which GATE years are valid for Cabinet Secretariat DFO Recruitment 2026?

For Cabinet Secretariat DFO Technical Recruitment 2026 under Advertisement No. 02/2026, valid GATE scores are those obtained in GATE 2024, GATE 2025, or GATE 2026 in the relevant subject paper. A valid score means the candidate achieved the qualifying cut-off marks set by the conducting IIT/IISc in the respective year. GATE 2023 and earlier scores are NOT valid for this recruitment cycle.

Is there any application fee for Cabinet Secretariat DFO Recruitment 2026?

No. There is absolutely no application fee for Cabinet Secretariat DFO Technical Recruitment 2026. This applies to all categories including General, SC, ST, OBC, EWS, and Ex-Servicemen. The application process is completely free of cost for all eligible candidates.

How do I apply for Cabinet Secretariat DFO Technical Recruitment 2026?

The application process is entirely offline. Candidates must type the prescribed application form on A-4 size paper in English capital letters, attach all self-attested documents (mark sheets, GATE score card, caste certificate if applicable, photographs, etc.), and send the complete application by Ordinary Post only to Post Bag No. 001, Lodhi Road Head Post Office, New Delhi – 110003. Applications must be received on or before 15 November 2026. Online applications are not accepted.

What is the selection process for Cabinet Secretariat DFO Technical 2026?

The selection process has two stages: (1) Shortlisting based on valid GATE scores — candidates are arranged in merit order separately for each subject, and the top 5 times the number of vacancies are shortlisted for interview. (2) Personal Interview — final selection is based on combined performance in GATE score and interview, subject to Character & Antecedent Verification and Medical Examination. Exact interview dates and centres are communicated to shortlisted candidates via e-mail.

What is the age limit for Cabinet Secretariat DFO Technical Recruitment 2026?

The maximum age limit for Cabinet Secretariat DFO Technical Recruitment 2026 is 30 years for General/UR candidates, as on the closing date of 15 November 2026. Age relaxation is available: SC/ST candidates get 5 years relaxation (up to 35 years), OBC candidates get 3 years (up to 33 years), Central Government Employees get up to 10 years relaxation (up to 40 years), and Ex-Servicemen are eligible as per Central Government rules.

Can I apply for more than one subject code in Cabinet Secretariat DFO 2026?

No. Candidates can apply for only one subject out of the nine subject codes listed in the notification. Applying for more than one subject code is not permitted, and doing so will lead to disqualification of all applications. You must hold both the educational qualification (EQ) and a valid GATE score in the same subject you are applying for.

Where should I send the application for Cabinet Secretariat DFO 2026?

Applications must be sent by Ordinary Post only to the following address: Post Bag No. 001, Lodhi Road Head Post Office, New Delhi – 110003. Applications must reach this address on or before 15 November 2026. Speed Post, Registered Post, or Courier applications may not be accepted. Ensure you clearly write the subject code on the outer envelope.

What documents are required for Cabinet Secretariat DFO Technical application 2026?

Required documents (all self-attested photocopies) include: (a) Matriculation/10th mark sheet for proof of age, (b) 10+2 certificate, (c) B.E./B.Tech./M.Sc. all semester mark sheets and degree certificate, (d) valid GATE 2024/2025/2026 Score Card, (e) Caste Certificate in Annexure-I (SC/ST) or Annexure-II (OBC) format if applicable, (f) PAN Card / Passport / Driving License as additional age proof, (g) Aadhaar Card (attach self-attested copy), (h) NOC from employer (if currently employed in Government service), (i) Discharge Certificate (for Ex-Servicemen), and (j) two recent passport-size coloured photographs (name and date of birth on the back).

JEPC Recruitment 2026 – Rs.66,251 Salary, 106 Posts Apply by 31 Oct

TGHB Assistant Engineer Recruitment 2026 – Rs.33,800 Salary, Apply for 25 Posts