In a significant development for the banking sector, the State Bank of India (SBI) has opened a large-scale recruitment drive to appoint 2,050 Circle Based Officers (CBOs) across its network in India. The SBI CBO Recruitment, which went live this week, is aimed at bringing experienced professionals into SBI’s officer cadre at a time when branch-level operations are seeing increased workload and customer demand.
Officials familiar with the process said the hiring drive is part of SBI’s broader plan to strengthen operational leadership at branches and regional offices ahead of the upcoming financial cycle.
A Recruitment Drive Focused on Experience, Not Freshers
Unlike traditional bank recruitments that largely target fresh graduates, the SBI CBO hiring drive stands out for one key reason — prior banking experience is mandatory. The bank is looking for candidates who can take on responsibilities immediately, without long training periods.
Industry observers say this approach reflects a shift in how public sector banks are planning their workforce. With rising digital transactions and more complex customer requirements, experienced officers are increasingly in demand.
What Makes the CBO Role Different
One of the most notable features of the Circle Based Officer post is its circle-specific posting policy. Candidates selected under this recruitment will be posted in the same circle they apply for and are generally not subject to frequent inter-circle transfers.
For many working professionals, this stability is a major advantage. It allows officers to build long-term familiarity with local customers, regional business needs, and branch operations.
When and How to Apply
The online application process for SBI CBO recruitment has already started.
Application Timeline
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Online Applications Begin | 29 January 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply | 18 February 2026 |
| Online Test (Expected) | March 2026 |
| Interview Phase | To be announced |
Candidates are advised to apply well before the deadline, as heavy traffic on the website is common during the final days.
Total Vacancies Announced
SBI has announced a total of 2,050 vacancies under this SBI CBO recruitment drive. The posts are distributed across various circles, covering metro cities as well as regional centers.
Applicants are allowed to apply for only one circle, and the choice must be made carefully, as it cannot be changed later.
Circle-Wise Vacancy Overview
The vacancies are spread across major SBI circles, with higher numbers in regions that handle larger volumes of banking activity.
| SBI Circle | Vacancies |
|---|---|
| Mumbai Metro | 170 |
| Maharashtra | 160 |
| Bengaluru | 150 |
| Chennai | 140 |
| Kolkata | 135 |
| Hyderabad | 130 |
| Ahmedabad | 120 |
| Jaipur | 120 |
| Lucknow | 115 |
| Bhopal | 110 |
| Delhi | 100 |
| Bhubaneswar | 90 |
| Patna | 90 |
| Chandigarh | 80 |
| Thiruvananthapuram | 80 |
| Total | 2,050 |
Who Is Eligible to Apply
To ensure only qualified professionals enter the selection process, SBI has laid down clear eligibility criteria.
Educational Qualification
A graduation degree from a recognised institution is required, and candidates from all streams are eligible.
Age Limit
The age limit for applicants is set between 21 and 30 years, with relaxations available for eligible reserved categories.
Experience Requirement
Relevant experience in the banking sector is compulsory. This condition ensures that selected officers can manage operational and customer-facing roles from the beginning.
Local Language Requirement
Applicants must be able to read, write, and speak the local language of the circle they apply for. Candidates who cannot provide proof may be required to appear for a language test.
How the Selection Process Will Work
The SBI CBO Recruitment process is designed to assess both professional knowledge and practical experience.
The stages include:
An online written examination to test banking awareness and aptitude
Screening of experience and documents
A personal interview to evaluate communication skills and role suitability
A local language proficiency test, where applicable
Salary, Benefits and Career Growth
Candidates selected as Circle Based Officers will be appointed in the Junior Management Grade Scale-I (JMGS-I).
The starting basic pay is ₹48,480 per month, along with allowances such as Dearness Allowance, House Rent Allowance, medical benefits, and other perks as per SBI policy.
Banking experts note that the CBO role offers strong long-term growth, with opportunities to move into higher managerial positions based on performance and experience.
Why This Recruitment Matters Now
The timing of the SBI CBO recruitment is significant. Public sector banks, including SBI, are seeing increased demand for skilled officers due to expanding credit portfolios, government-linked schemes, and rising customer expectations.
By recruiting experienced officers, SBI aims to reduce operational pressure at branches while maintaining service quality.
Key Points Candidates Should Remember
Only one circle can be selected
Applications cannot be edited after final submission
Regular updates should be checked on the official SBI website
Final Word
The SBI CBO Recruitment 2026 offers a valuable opportunity for experienced banking professionals looking for stability, growth, and a respected officer position in India’s largest public sector bank. With 2,050 vacancies announced, eligible candidates are encouraged to review the details carefully and apply within the specified timeline.
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