The Staff Selection Commission Combined Graduate Level (SSC CGL) examination opens doors to a wide range of prestigious job profiles in the government sector. Among these, the Assistant Section Officer (ASO) position stands out as a highly sought-after role. The Staff Selection Commission through its official SSC exam calendar has announced the date for SSC CGL 2023 recruitment. Check the details in the linked article.
The designation of Assistant Section Officer holds immense prestige and is highly respected. The Staff Selection Commission conducts the annual SSC Combined Graduate Level (CGL) exam to select eligible candidates for this position. Previously known as an Assistant in the Central Secretariat Service (CSS), an SSC CGL ASO works under the supervision of a Section Officer who leads the smallest unit within the Government of India.
Aspirants can go through the detailed information on SSC CGL Notification on the given link.
The Central Secretariat Service (CSS) plays a crucial role in administrative operations, providing permanent bureaucratic and functional staff to the Central Government of India. With many candidates vying for this post, it is essential to understand the job profile and career growth opportunities available for an Assistant Section Officer in CSS. This article aims to shed light on the job profile and salary structure of an SSC CGL Assistant Section Officer, providing valuable insights for aspiring candidates.
SSC CGL ASO: Overview
| SSC CGL Exam Overview | |
| Exam | SSC CGL |
| Conducting Body | Staff Selection Commission |
| Position | Assistant Section Officer (ASO) |
| Mode of Application | Online |
| Official Website | https://ssc.nic.in/ |
| Vacancies | 7500 |
| Qualification | Graduates Government Jobs |
| Category | SSC Jobs |
| Exam Dates | 14th July to 27th July 2023 (According to Exam Calendar) |
| Application Start Date | 3rd April 2023 |
| Last Date to Apply | 5th May 2023 |
Understanding the SSC CGL Selection Process 2023 is crucial for aspiring candidates to prepare effectively and increase their chances of success.
SSC CGL ASO: Job Profile & Work Responsibilities
The job profile of an SSC CGL Assistant Section Officer (ASO) encompasses a wide range of administrative, clerical and managerial responsibilities within various ministries, departments, and organisations under the Government of India. The ASO job profile in Central Secretariat Service (CSS) primarily revolves around clerical tasks, including file completion, report preparation, routine noting, drafting and letter writing.
The ASO plays a crucial role in ensuring the smooth functioning of the assigned section or unit. Let’s delve into the detailed job profile and responsibilities of an SSC CGL ASO:
| SSC CGL ASO Job Profile | |
| Ensuring Continuity in Government Policies | ASOs are responsible for noting, drafting, and interpreting rules and regulations, ensuring consistency and continuity in the policies of the Government of India. |
| Link between Parliament and Central Secretariat: | ASOs play a vital role in maintaining a crucial link between Parliament and the Central Secretariat. This involves handling Parliament Questions, Assurances, and Government Bills, ensuring smooth communication and effective coordination. |
| Policy Formulation and Monitoring | ASOs in CSS may be involved in assisting with the formulation and monitoring of policies pertaining to specific subjects. This responsibility contributes to the efficient implementation of government initiatives |
Also, find the SSC CGL Eligibility in the linked article.
Assistant Section Officer Roles & Responsibilities:
ASOs in CSS have specific roles and responsibilities that shape their day-to-day work. Key points to note include:
| SSC CGL ASO: Responsibilities | |
| Benefits and Work-Life Balance: | ASOs in CSS enjoy several benefits, including travel concessions, access to health schemes (CGHS), office and quarter facilities, gymnasiums, libraries, and more. The job offers a comfortable work-life balance, with flexible leaves and opportunities to explore interests outside of work. |
| Comfortable Desk Job: | The nature of the ASO role in CSS is primarily desk-based and clerical in nature. The job does not come with strict deadlines, allowing for a more relaxed work environment. |
| Coordination with Various Sections: | ASOs are responsible for coordinating with different sections within their department and across departments, facilitating seamless workflow and efficient collaboration. |
| Corruption-Free and Competitive Salary: | ASOs in CSS can enjoy a corruption-free work environment and a competitive salary. After the 7th Pay Commission, the in-hand salary for an ASO is approximately Rs 60,000. |
| Opportunities for Personal Development: | ASOs have ample time to learn and acquire skills on the job, making it an ideal environment for personal and professional growth. Pursuing personal interests, such as reading, sports, or music, is also encouraged. |
| Supportive Work Environment: | Working alongside colleagues who have also cleared the SSC CGL exam, ASOs in CSS find a supportive work environment. Colleagues understand the challenges and are willing to offer assistance when needed. |
Check SSC CGL exam dates for detailed information on new exam dates.
SSC CGL ASO: Salary Structure
The salary structure of an SSC CGL ASO is quite attractive, offering a rewarding career. Following the implementation of the 7th Pay Commission, the Assistant Section Officer Salary in the CSS position is classified under the 4600-grade pay scale. The initial pay scale for an ASO is in the range of Rs. 44,900 to Rs. 1,42,400, as per the 7th Central Pay Commission.
With consideration of this SSC CGL Salary structure, the projected salary for an Assistant Section Officer in the CSS post, after the 7th pay commission, is as outlined below:
| Particulars | Statistics |
| ASO Grade Pay | 4600 |
| ASO Pay Scale | Rs 44,900 to Rs 1,42,400 |
| Assistant Section Officer Salary | 75,889 |
| Basic Pay of ASO in CSS | Rs 44900 |
| DA of ASO in CSS (@34%) | 15,266 |
| HRA of ASO in CSS (@27%) | 12,123 |
| Pay Level of ASO in CSS | Level 7 |
| TA of ASO in CSS | 3600 |
| Pay In Hand | Rs. 44,900 to Rs. 1,42,400 |
Candidates can check SSC CGL Previous Year Question Paper for a thorough understanding of the level and scope of SSC CGL exam and for revision of their learnings.
SSC CGL ASO: Perk & Allowances
An Assistant Section Officer receives certain perks and benefits while serving the duty. ASOs are entitled to various allowances such as Dearness Allowance (DA), House Rent Allowance (HRA), Transport Allowance (TA), and others, depending on their place of posting. The list of allowances received are:
- Dearness Allowance
- House Rental Allowance
- Medical Benefits
- Paid Leaves
- Pension
- Travel Allowance
For a comprehensive understanding of the perks and additional benefits associated with the SSC CGL ASO 2023 position, candidates can refer to the table provided below:
| City type | X City | Y City | Z City |
| Basic pay | 44,900 | 44,900 | 44,900 |
| CGEGIS | 30 | 30 | 30 |
| CGHS | 350 | 350 | 350 |
| DA | 7,633 | 7,633 | 7,633 |
| DA on TA | 612 | 306 | 306 |
| Govt. Contribution | 7,355 | 7,355 | 7,355 |
| Gross Earnings | 67,521 | 63,929 | 60,337 |
| HRA | 10,776 | 7,184 | 3,592 |
| Net Earnings | 61,888 | 58,296 | 54,704 |
| NPS Deduction10% (Basic + DA) | 5,253 | 5,253 | 5253 |
| TA | 3,600 | 1,800 | 1,800 |
| Total Deductions | 5,633 | 5,633 | 5,633 |
Kindly be informed that the central government has recently raised the Dearness Allowance (DA) to 34%. Therefore, the salary mentioned above reflects the updated DA.
Candidates preparing for the SSC CGL exam can visit the SSC CGL mock test page and get free mock tests based on the latest exam pattern and prepare for the exam accordingly.
SSC CGL ASO in CSS: Career Growth and Opportunities
Upon joining as an Assistant Section Officer (ASO) in the Central Secretariat Service (CSS), candidates can expect a structured career growth path with opportunities for advancement. Here is an overview of the career progression:
- First Promotion – Section Officer:
After being appointed as an ASO in the CSS, candidates can anticipate their first promotion to the position of Section Officer within 5-6 years of service. This promotion is considered a significant milestone as it grants a gazetted post. However, it is crucial to clear the departmental exam to be eligible for this promotion.
- Under Secretary:
Following the role of a Section Officer, an ASO can aspire to become an Under Secretary in approximately 6-8 years. This transition signifies further growth and responsibility within the CSS.
- Deputy Secretary:
After serving as an Under Secretary, an ASO can progress to the position of Deputy Secretary in around 8-10 years. This promotion demonstrates significant career development and reflects higher-level decision-making and managerial responsibilities.
- Director:
With continued dedication and experience, an ASO can further climb the career ladder to become a Director in approximately 8-10 years. As a Director, individuals hold influential positions and play a vital role in shaping policies and strategies within their respective departments.
The role of an SSC CGL Assistant Section Officer in the Central Secretariat Service (CSS) presents an appealing career choice within the government sector. With a job profile that combines clerical responsibilities, coordination, policy formulation, and a range of benefits, ASOs in CSS enjoy a comfortable and fulfilling work experience. The opportunities for personal growth, supportive work environment, and competitive salary make this role highly sought after by SSC CGL aspirants.
For more details on other SSC Exams, refer to the linked article.
| Related Links: | |
| SSC Recruitment | SSC Exam Date |
| SSC Exam Pattern | SSC Results |
| SSC Admit Card | SSC Notification |
| SSC Cut Off | SSC General Awareness |
