The SSC SA IMD selection process is streamlined into two stages only: CBT and Document Verification. Since there is no interview, CBT performance is entirely merit-determining. The entire process from notification to joining takes approximately 8–12 months.
Stage-by-Stage Selection
- Stage 1 – Computer-Based Test (CBT): 200 marks, 2 hours. Candidates shortlisted for DV are those scoring above the category-wise CBT cutoff. Merit list is prepared based on normalized CBT marks (if multiple shifts).
- Stage 2 – Document Verification (DV): Selected candidates submit original documents including degree certificate, category certificate (if applicable), and identity proof at the designated SSC regional office. Appointment order is issued post-DV.
IMD Station-Wise Posting Profile
| Posting Type | Examples |
|---|---|
| Surface Meteorological Observatories | District and sub-district weather stations across India |
| Airport Meteorological Offices (AMO) | Civil and military airports – Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, etc. |
| Radiosonde Stations (Upper Air) | Upper air balloon sounding stations – Patna, New Delhi, Chennai, Kolkata |
| Cyclone Warning Centres | Bhubaneswar, Visakhapatnam, Chennai, Kolkata, Ahmedabad |
| Remote/Island Stations | Andaman & Nicobar, Lakshadweep, Barren Island, North-East India stations |
Pay Scale & Allowances
| Component | Details |
|---|---|
| Pay Level | Pay Level 6 (₹35,400 – ₹1,12,400) |
| HRA | 8–27% of basic pay (city-dependent) |
| DA | Current DA applicable to Central Government employees |
| TA | Transport Allowance as applicable |
| Remote Station Allowance | Additional allowance for postings at remote/island/high-altitude stations |
| Approx. In-Hand (Metro city) | ₹48,000–₹58,000/month |
Career Growth in IMD
- Scientific Assistant → Senior Scientific Assistant → Scientific Officer → Scientist-B → Scientist-C
- Promotions through LDCE (Limited Departmental Competitive Examination) and DPC-based seniority
- Opportunities for foreign postings at IMD overseas stations (Fiji, Maldives, Myanmar)