Urgent Recruitment for Field Assistant at NIT Rourkela: Project on Kinetic and Deployable Living Spaces

The National Institute of Technology Rourkela (NIT Rourkela)—one of India’s top Institutes of National Importance under the Ministry of Education, Government of India—has officially released a recruitment notice for a Field Assistant position. This opening is part of an exciting and forward-looking research project focused on creating kinetic and deployable dual-use living spaces for low-income environments.

For aspirants passionate about design innovation, fabrication, and sustainable architecture, this temporary role offers the perfect blend of research exposure and practical skill-building. Let’s explore all essential details including eligibility, salary, project insights, and the complete application process curated by AUBSP to ensure you don’t miss this golden opportunity.

About NIT Rourkela: A Pioneer in Research and Innovation

Before applying, it’s crucial to understand the prestige and potential of NIT Rourkela. Established as an Institute of National Importance, NIT Rourkela is known for cutting-edge research in engineering, architecture, and technology development. The institute consistently attracts projects funded by government bodies like the Department of Science and Technology (DST) and international collaborations that push India’s innovation boundaries.

The Department of Planning and Architecture, where this position is based, is a hub for creative experimentation, sustainable design, and structural innovation. Joining this department means contributing to real-world problem-solving that improves living conditions for low-income communities through smart, deployable architecture.

Project Overview: Development of Kinetic and Deployable Dual-Use Living Spaces

This project, coded SR-25-PA-002, is funded by ITDD, DST, and aims to revolutionize affordable living solutions in India. The title—“Development of kinetic and deployable dual-use living space for low-income living and working environments”—reflects its mission to design modular, movable, and energy-efficient living structures.

As a Field Assistant, you will be directly involved in prototype fabrication using materials such as metal, wood, and bamboo. The hands-on nature of this project allows candidates to explore real-time engineering applications, material design, and fabrication techniques that could transform the way India envisions housing solutions for economically challenged groups.

Principal Investigator Prof. Roshmi Sen, along with co-investigators Prof. A. Baghel and Prof. A. Kar, lead this groundbreaking initiative, ensuring top-notch research quality and mentorship.

Field Assistant Recruitment Details: Key Role and Responsibilities

The advertised post is purely temporary, extending for 1 year and 3 months (15 months), or until the project concludes. As a Field Assistant, your major task will involve fabricating prototypes, performing metal and wooden works, and assisting in assembly and deployment experiments related to the living space models.

This role is ideal for candidates skilled in construction, welding, or fabrication, who wish to gain institutional exposure in a high-impact research environment. Through hands-on experimentation and collaboration with architects and engineers, you’ll enhance your practical abilities while contributing to an impactful social mission.

Salary and Benefits

The selected candidate will receive a monthly consolidated pay of ₹21,600 during the first and second year of the project. Although the position doesn’t explicitly include a House Rent Allowance (HRA), candidates may be eligible as per institutional norms.

This role provides an excellent career-building opportunity for technically skilled professionals seeking entry into the research and academic sector. Working within NIT Rourkela’s advanced labs ensures access to high-end tools, design software, and expert mentorship—making it a valuable stepping stone for future roles in both academia and industry.

Eligibility Criteria: Educational Qualification and Experience

Essential Qualification

Applicants must hold an ITI certificate in any of the following trades:

• Fabrication
• Fitter
• Welder
• Construction or an equivalent discipline

Desirable Experience

Although not mandatory, one year of professional experience in fabrication, prototyping, or construction will enhance your selection prospects.

Skill Set Preference

Hands-on experience in metal and wood prototyping, including drilling, welding, and part assembly, is highly desirable. Candidates with a flair for mechanical design or structural prototyping will find this role particularly rewarding.

Age Limit and Relaxation Rules

The upper age limit is 28 years as of the last date of application. However, NIT Rourkela provides age relaxations for deserving categories:

• 5 years for SC/ST/PWD/Female applicants
• 3 years for OBC (Non-Creamy Layer) candidates

The maximum permissible age under relaxation norms is 40 years. These provisions ensure a fair and inclusive recruitment process, encouraging applications from diverse backgrounds.

Application Process: Step-by-Step Guide

Candidates should apply online only—no hard copies are required. Follow these steps to ensure your application is considered:

1. Visit the official NIT Rourkela website → Go to Faculty & Staff → SRICCE Career Notices.
2. Download the official advertisement (Ref: NITR/SR/2025/Advt.-25PA002/L/077) and read it thoroughly.
3. Prepare a single PDF file containing your filled application form, educational certificates, mark sheets, experience documents, and any research publications.
4. Email your application to the PI/Co-PIs at:
   • 📧 senr@nitrkl.ac.in / s.roshmi@gmail.com
   • 📧 baghela@nitrkl.ac.in
5. The email subject line must clearly state the advertisement number for identification.

Ensure all documents are legible and submitted before the deadline to avoid disqualification.

Important Dates to Remember

Applicants are encouraged to apply well before the closing date to avoid last-minute technical issues.

Selection Procedure

Selection will be based purely on merit and project requirements. Shortlisted candidates will be notified for an online interview. Keep in mind that meeting the minimum eligibility does not guarantee selection—NIT Rourkela reserves the right to apply higher shortlisting criteria depending on the applicant pool.

For queries about eligibility or application status, candidates can directly reach out to the Principal Investigator or Co-PIs via the official email IDs mentioned above.

✅ Final Thoughts from AUBSP

This Field Assistant recruitment at NIT Rourkela offers a unique opportunity to work on a high-impact research project with direct societal benefits. If you’re passionate about fabrication, innovation, and sustainable living technologies, this role is tailor-made for you.

We encourage motivated individuals to seize this chance and gain hands-on research experience in one of India’s premier institutes. Apply before October 24, 2025, and take a step toward shaping the future of affordable, deployable architecture.

👉 Stay tuned with AUBSP for daily job updates, official notices, and career-building opportunities across India’s top educational and research institutions.