OPSC Scientific Officer Recruitment 2026

MockPreps; Odisha; On-site; INR 456,000 - 546,000; Full time

Job summary

OPSC has announced 89 Scientific Officer posts across ten divisions in Odisha, with a basic pay of Rs 44,900 per month under Level 10. Candidates holding a relevant master's degree are eligible to apply online by 26 November 2026.

The role involves scientific examinations, forensic analysis, evidence evaluation, reporting, testimony in court, and collaboration with research teams. It offers a stable public sector career and opportunities for professional growth.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in a relevant field is required.

Responsibilities

• Conduct scientific examinations and forensic analysis.
• Operate laboratory equipment to extract clues and prepare reports.
• Document findings and maintain case records per SOP.
• Provide expert technical testimony in court when required.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to improve testing methods.
• Stay updated with advancements in forensic science.

Education

Master's degree

Job description

OPSC Scientific Officer Recruitment 2026

Odisha

Apply By: 26 Nov 2026

Status: Active / Open

Job Description

Overview

The Odisha Public Service Commission (OPSC) has announced an official recruitment notification for 89 Scientific Officer posts distributed across 10 specialized divisions. Qualified candidates holding relevant master's degrees are invited to submit their applications through the online portal within the stipulated timeframe. This recruitment drive offers stable career opportunities within the forensic science and scientific departments of Odisha state.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct scientific examinations, forensic analysis, and rigorous evaluations of evidence items submitted by law enforcement agencies.
• Operate specialized laboratory equipment with precision to uncover vital clues and produce verified analytical reports.
• Document findings accurately and maintain comprehensive case records in accordance with standard operating procedures.
• Provide expert technical testimony and support during court proceedings whenever required by judicial authorities.
• Collaborate effectively with multidisciplinary research teams to improve investigative techniques and testing protocols.
• Keep up to date with modern technological advancements and methodology changes in forensic science disciplines.

Why Apply

Securing this position provides a stable public sector career path with competitive remuneration under Level 10 of the pay matrix. Successful candidates will make meaningful contributions to the state's criminal justice system through advanced scientific investigation. The role also promotes continuous professional growth via specialized training and exposure to diverse forensic cases.

Quick Facts

• Basic salary scale: Rs. 44,900 per month
• Posting location: Odisha
• Job category: State Government Recruitment

Application Fee

Candidates other than SC, ST, and PwD categories are required to pay an application fee of Rs. 700. The payment must be processed through online modes including Credit Card, Debit Card, UPI, Net Banking, or Wallets before the final closing date.

Age Limit

21 - 42 Years

Selection Process

The selection methodology comprises a comprehensive written examination followed by a personality test and viva voce interview stage. The written examination includes Paper-I carrying 100 marks and Paper-II carrying 300 marks, featuring objective-type multiple-choice questions. A negative marking scheme applies where 25% of the allotted marks are deducted for every incorrect response. Candidates who successfully qualify through the written assessment are subsequently invited for the 50-mark viva voce test.

Exam Pattern

Paper-I covers General English, General Awareness, General Aptitude, and Reasoning across 100 questions for 100 marks with a duration of 90 minutes. Paper-II focuses on the specific division subject featuring 150 questions for 300 marks with a duration of 150 minutes. Both papers consist of objective-type multiple-choice questions with a negative marking penalty equivalent to 25% of the marks assigned to each question.

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The Odisha Public Service Commission (OPSC) stands as the premier constitutional body responsible for recruiting candidates into various civil services and departmental positions under the Government of Odisha. Established under the provisions of the Indian Constitution, the OPSC plays a vital role in ensuring that the state administration is staffed by competent and merit-based professionals. Headquartered in Cuttack, the commission functions with the mandate to conduct competitive examinations and interviews for selecting officers for Group A and Group B services. Since its inception, the OPSC has remained a cornerstone of state governance, maintaining high standards of transparency and integrity in its selection processes.The history of the Odisha Public Service Commission traces back to the era of the Government of India Act, 1935. Following the creation of Odisha as a separate province on April 1, 1936, the need for a dedicated recruitment body became evident. However, it was only after India gained independence that the commission was formally constituted on April 1, 1949. Initially, the commission operated with a limited scope, but over the decades, its responsibilities have expanded significantly, encompassing a wide range of technical and non-technical cadres, from the Odisha Administrative Service (OAS) to the Odisha Medical Service and various engineering services.As a constitutional authority, the OPSC derives its powers from Articles 315 to 323 of the Indian Constitution. These articles outline the appointment and tenure of members, the removal and suspension of members, and the functions of the Public Service Commission. The commission is headed by a Chairman and comprises several members who are distinguished experts from various fields. Their primary duty is to advise the state government on matters relating to recruitment rules, promotions, and disciplinary actions concerning civil servants. The commission's independence is protected by the Constitution to keep the recruitment process free from political interference.The examination process conducted by the OPSC is rigorous and designed to test the comprehensive knowledge and analytical abilities of candidates. Among these, the most prestigious is the Odisha Civil Services (OCS) Examination. This multi-stage process typically includes a Preliminary Examination, a Main Examination, and a Personality Test (Interview). The preliminary round consists of objective-type papers focused on General Studies, acting as a screening test. The Main Examination is more intensive, featuring descriptive papers in English, Odia, and several optional subjects chosen by the candidate. Finally, the personality test evaluates the candidate's character, leadership qualities, and suitability for public service.Beyond civil services, the OPSC conducts examinations for the Odisha Judicial Service (OJS), Odisha Education Service (OES), and various specialized roles such as Assistant Executive Engineers, Medical Officers, and Lecturers in government colleges. Each of these exams has a specific syllabus tailored to the professional requirements of the post. For instance, the Judicial Service examination focuses heavily on legal laws and jurisprudence, while engineering services emphasize technical proficiency in civil, mechanical, or electrical subjects. This diversity in recruitment ensures that every department of the Odisha government is equipped with specialized talent.Preparing for OPSC examinations requires a strategic and disciplined approach. Candidates are encouraged to stay updated with current affairs, particularly those relating to the state of Odisha, including its history, geography, culture, and economic policies. Mastery of the Odia language is often a mandatory requirement, reflecting the commission's commitment to effectively communicating with the local population. Utilizing previous years' question papers, such as those for the OCS Prelims General Studies, is a highly recommended strategy to understand the difficulty level and recurring themes in exams. Candidates should focus on building a strong foundation in NCERT books and standard reference materials for General Studies.In recent years, the Odisha Public Service Commission has embraced digital transformation to enhance the candidate experience and procedural efficiency. The official OPSC portal provides a one-stop solution for downloading notifications, submitting online applications, and accessing admit cards and results. The introduction of an online grievance redressal system and real-time updates via SMS and email has significantly increased transparency. Furthermore, the commission has been proactive in releasing an annual recruitment calendar, helping candidates plan their preparation cycles more effectively. These initiatives underscore the OPSC's commitment to modernization and candidate-centric governance.The significance of the OPSC extends beyond recruitment; it acts as the guardian of the 'merit system' in the state. By conducting fair and competitive examinations, the OPSC ensures that the most capable individuals are placed in positions of authority, which directly impacts the quality of public service delivery in Odisha. Whether it is implementing welfare schemes at the grassroots level or formulating state-level policies, the officers selected by the OPSC are at the forefront of Odisha's development journey. As the state evolves into a hub of industry, education, and sports, the role of the OPSC in building a robust bureaucracy becomes even more critical.In conclusion, the Odisha Public Service Commission remains a vital institution in the administrative structure of Odisha. Its long-standing tradition of excellence, coupled with its adaptation to contemporary requirements, makes it a respected body among job seekers and the general public. For anyone aspiring to serve the people of Odisha through a career in civil services, understanding the functions and processes of the OPSC is the first step toward a rewarding professional life. The commission continues to evolve, ensuring that the spirit of public service is upheld through the selection of dedicated and talented individuals prepared to contribute to the state's progress.