Table of Contents
- Introduction to ISRO
- Why Work at ISRO?
- Salary Structure in ISRO
- ISRO Scientist/Engineer ‘SC’ Salary
- ISRO Scientist/Engineer ‘SD’ and Above
- Technical Assistant & Technician Salary
- ISRO Salary During Training Period
- Allowances & Perks at ISRO
- ISRO Employee Benefits
- Career Growth and Promotions
- ISRO vs Other Government Jobs
- How to Join ISRO
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion

1. Introduction to ISRO
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is India’s national space agency, known for its incredible achievements like Chandrayaan, Mangalyaan, and launching 100+ satellites in a single mission. Working at ISRO is not just a job—it’s a matter of national pride. Along with prestige, ISRO offers a stable career with attractive salaries and benefits.
2. Why Work at ISRO?
ISRO is among the top government employers in India. It offers:
- Competitive salary packages
- Government job security
- Opportunities to work on cutting-edge technologies
- A chance to contribute to India’s space missions
- Attractive work-life balance and holidays
3. Salary Structure in ISRO
ISRO follows the 7th Central Pay Commission structure for its employees. Salaries vary based on the post, grade, and experience.
The salary components generally include:
- Basic Pay
- Dearness Allowance (DA)
- House Rent Allowance (HRA)
- Transport Allowance (TA)
- Provident Fund (PF)
- Performance Related Incentive Scheme (PRIS)
4. ISRO Scientist/Engineer ‘SC’ Salary
This is the entry-level post for engineers and scientists at ISRO.
Component | Amount (Approx.) |
---|---|
Basic Pay | ₹56,100 |
Dearness Allowance (DA) | ₹11,220 (20% approx.) |
House Rent Allowance (HRA) | ₹13,464 (24% in metros) |
Transport Allowance (TA) | ₹3,600 – ₹7,200 |
Other Incentives | ₹5,000 – ₹10,000 |
Gross Salary (Monthly) | ₹75,000 – ₹90,000 |
5. ISRO Scientist/Engineer ‘SD’ and Higher
After a few years of experience, employees are promoted to Scientist ‘SD’ and higher levels like SE, SF, SG, and so on.
Designation | Pay Level | Approx Gross Salary |
---|---|---|
Scientist/Engineer SD | Level 11 | ₹85,000 – ₹1,00,000 |
Scientist/Engineer SE | Level 12 | ₹1,00,000 – ₹1,20,000 |
Scientist/Engineer SF | Level 13 | ₹1,20,000 – ₹1,40,000 |
Scientist/Engineer SG | Level 13A | ₹1,40,000 – ₹1,60,000 |
6. Technical Assistant & Technician Salary
ISRO also recruits diploma holders and ITI graduates for various support roles.
Technical Assistant (Diploma Holders)
- Basic Pay: ₹44,900
- Gross Salary: ₹55,000 – ₹65,000/month
Technician B (ITI Holders)
- Basic Pay: ₹21,700
- Gross Salary: ₹30,000 – ₹40,000/month
These roles come with all government allowances and job security.
7. ISRO Salary During Training Period
Selected candidates undergo a brief training period. During this time, they are paid full salary similar to their post, including allowances.
For example:
- Scientist/Engineer SC trainees receive ₹65,000 – ₹70,000/month
- No bond is required for most positions, but sometimes candidates sign a service agreement.
8. Allowances & Perks at ISRO
Besides the basic salary, ISRO employees enjoy various perks and allowances:
- HRA (24%, 16%, or 8% based on city class)
- Transport Allowance (TA)
- Dearness Allowance (DA) revised every 6 months
- Medical Facilities for self and family
- Subsidized Canteen Services
- Leave Travel Concession (LTC)
- Children’s Education Allowance
- ISRO Housing (in some centers)
- Group Insurance and Gratuity
9. ISRO Employee Benefits
- Job Security: As a government agency, ISRO provides permanent and pensionable jobs.
- Pension and Retirement Benefits:Includes NPS (New Pension Scheme), gratuity, and other post-retirement benefits.
- Work-Life Balance:Most ISRO centers offer a 5-day work week with fixed hours.
- Research Opportunities:Employees can pursue sponsored research, attend conferences, and publish papers.
- On-Site Facilities:Most ISRO centers have gyms, clubs, schools, and even housing colonies.
10. Career Growth and Promotions
ISRO promotes based on performance and experience, with periodic assessments.
Typical Promotion Path:
- Scientist/Engineer SC
- Scientist/Engineer SD (after 4 years)
- SE → SF → SG → H → G → Outstanding Scientist → Distinguished Scientist
Higher posts may require a selection process, achievements, and vacancies.
11. ISRO vs Other Government Jobs
Aspect | ISRO | Other PSU/Govt Jobs |
---|---|---|
Salary | Competitive | Similar or higher (PSUs) |
Job Security | Excellent | Excellent |
Prestige | Very High (National level) | High |
Research Role | High involvement | Depends on department |
Promotions | Merit + Experience based | Seniority based |
12. How to Join ISRO
Eligibility for Scientist/Engineer ‘SC’:
- B.E./B.Tech in relevant branch with 65% or above
- Age Limit: Usually 28 years
- Must clear ISRO Centralized Recruitment Board (ICRB) written exam and interview
For Assistants/Technicians:
- Diploma or ITI
- Trade-specific skill tests and interviews
- Application is through ISRO’s official website: https://www.isro.gov.in
13. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
❓ Is ISRO salary better than private jobs?
Yes, especially considering job security, benefits, and long-term stability.
❓ Are there bonuses in ISRO?
Yes, ISRO has a Performance-Related Incentive Scheme (PRIS) which gives annual bonuses.
❓ Does ISRO provide housing?
Yes, some ISRO centers offer staff quarters, especially in remote areas.
❓ Can ISRO scientists go abroad for work?
Yes, often they attend international conferences or collaborate on global projects.
❓ What is the highest salary in ISRO?
Top-level scientists (like ISRO Chairman) earn ₹2.5 lakh to ₹3 lakh/month, including all perks.
14. Conclusion
A career at ISRO offers much more than a good salary. It is about serving the nation, working on space missions, and being part of India’s scientific pride. With a competitive pay structure, solid career progression, and a range of allowances and perks, ISRO is one of the most rewarding employers in the government sector.
If you’re passionate about space, research, and national development, ISRO is your launchpad to a fulfilling career.
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