IOCL Paradip Refinery Apprentice Recruitment 2026: 342 Vacancies, Eligibility, Merit-Based Selection & Apply Online

Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL) Paradip Refinery has announced Apprentice Recruitment 2026 (Advt. No. PDR/HR/03/Apprentices-25) for one-year training under the Apprentices Act across multiple technical and non-technical trades, including Chemical, Mechanical, Electrical, Instrumentation and Data Entry, with category-wise reservations as per Government norms.

Eligible candidates—Class XII pass, ITI, Diploma or B.Sc graduates with minimum 50% marks (45% for SC/ST/PwBD in reserved seats)—must be aged 18–24 years as on 31-01-2026 (upper age relaxations applicable). Higher professional degree holders and those with over one year of job experience or more than five years since qualification are not eligible. Selection is merit-based on aggregate marks in the qualifying exam, followed by document verification and medical fitness; no written test will be conducted.

Apprentices receive stipend as per rules, leave benefits, accident insurance and PPE (for technical trades), but no job guarantee after completion. Applications require mandatory registration and application on NAPS (for Trade Apprentices) or NATS (for Technician Apprentices), along with submission of additional details via Microsoft Forms between 12-02-2026 and 25-02-2026, and candidates may apply for only one trade.

Indian Oil Paradip Refinery Apprentice Recruitment 2026: Full Details, Eligibility, Seats & How to Apply

Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL) Paradip Refinery has released Advertisement No. PDR/HR/03/Apprentices-25 dated 12-02-2026 for engagement of Apprentices under the Apprentices Act, 1961/1973. This is a golden opportunity for freshers, diploma holders, ITI candidates and graduates to get hands-on training in a leading Fortune Global 500 company.

The apprentices will be engaged at Paradip Refinery Unit across multiple trades and technical disciplines with a training period of 12 months. The notification clearly mentions that this is a Skill Building Initiative and not a direct employment drive, but the experience gained will strongly enhance future job prospects in the oil & gas and process industries.

Trade, Discipline and Total Vacancies

IOCL Paradip is offering apprenticeship in technical and non-technical trades with category-wise reservation as per Government of India norms.

IOCL Paradip Apprentice Vacancies 2026

🔹 101 – Trade Apprentice (Attendant Operator – Chemical Plant)
Qualification: B.Sc (Physics, Chemistry, Maths/Industrial Chemistry)
Seats: 114
UR: 46 | EWS: 11 | SC: 18 | ST: 25 | OBC (NCL): 14 | PwBD: 0

🔹 102 – Trade Apprentice (Fitter – Mechanical)
Qualification: Matric + ITI (Fitter)
Seats: 32
UR: 13 | EWS: 3 | SC: 5 | ST: 7 | OBC (NCL): 4 | PwBD: 2

🔹 104 – Technician Apprentice (Chemical)
Qualification: Diploma in Chemical/Petrochemical/Chemical Technology/Refinery Engg.
Seats: 53
UR: 21 | EWS: 5 | SC: 9 | ST: 12 | OBC (NCL): 6 | PwBD: 0

🔹 105 – Technician Apprentice (Mechanical)
Qualification: Diploma in Mechanical Engineering
Seats: 37
UR: 15 | EWS: 4 | SC: 6 | ST: 8 | OBC (NCL): 4 | PwBD: 3

🔹 106 – Technician Apprentice (Electrical)
Qualification: Diploma in Electrical/Electrical & Electronics Engineering
Seats: 68
UR: 27 | EWS: 7 | SC: 11 | ST: 15 | OBC (NCL): 8 | PwBD: 4

🔹 107 – Technician Apprentice (Instrumentation)
Qualification: Diploma in Instrumentation/Instrumentation & Electronics/Control
Seats: 20
UR: 9 | EWS: 2 | SC: 3 | ST: 4 | OBC (NCL): 2 | PwBD: 2

🔹 110 – Trade Apprentice (Data Entry Operator – Fresher)
Qualification: Class XII Pass
Seats: 13
UR: 5 | EWS: 1 | SC: 2 | ST: 3 | OBC (NCL): 2 | PwBD: 2

🔹 111 – Trade Apprentice (Data Entry Operator – Skill Certificate Holder)
Qualification: Class XII + Domestic Data Entry Operator Certificate
Seats: 5
UR: 2 | EWS: 1 | SC: 0 | ST: 1 | OBC (NCL): 1 | PwBD: 0

📍 All apprenticeships are for 12 months at IOCL Paradip Refinery.

Number of seats is tentative and may increase or decrease at the discretion of management, subject to reservation rules. If suitable candidates are not available in Code 110 or 111, seats may be interchanged between these two codes.

Eligibility Criteria in Detail

Educational Qualification

• Candidate must have already passed the required qualification as on 31-01-2026; result-awaited candidates are not eligible.
• For Class XII/Graduate/Diploma:
  • Must be regular full-time from a recognized Board/University/Institute.
  • Minimum 50% aggregate marks (45% for SC/ST and PwBD candidates against reserved seats).
• For ITI (Fitter):
  • Pass marks are sufficient.
  • Only regular full-time ITI recognized by NCVET/SCVT is acceptable.
• Only specified branches for each trade/discipline will be considered; “equivalent” or unrelated branches are not accepted.
• Part-time, correspondence or distance mode qualifications are not eligible.

Special Conditions for Data Entry Operator Apprentices

• Code 110 (Fresher): “Fresher apprentice” means a non-graduate who has not undergone any institutional or skill training before on-the-job training.
• Code 111 (Skill Certificate Holder): Must have a Skill Certificate in “Domestic Data Entry Operator” of less than one-year duration from an awarding body under NSQF or another authority recognized by Central Government.

Lateral Entry Diploma Holders

Candidates admitted directly in 2nd year of Diploma (after Class XII Science / ITI) are also eligible, subject to required aggregate percentage across all semesters.

Ineligible Higher Qualifications

• Candidates possessing or having completed higher professional qualifications like BE/B.Tech, MBA, CA, LLB, MCA etc. on or before joining are not eligible.
• Candidates with more than one year job experience after acquiring the qualification are not eligible.
• Candidates who have completed 5 years after acquiring prescribed qualification as on 31-01-2026 are also not eligible.

Age Limit (as on 31-01-2026)

• Minimum age: 18 years.
• Maximum age: 24 years for General/EWS candidates.
• Relaxations:
  • SC/ST: 5 years.
  • OBC(NCL): 3 years.
  • PwBD: 10 years, plus 5 years for SC/ST PwBD and 3 years for OBC(NCL) PwBD against reserved posts.
• Matriculation (Class X) certificate is the only accepted proof of date of birth.

Reservation & Relaxations

Reservation applies for SC, ST, OBC(NCL), EWS and PwBD categories as per indicated seat matrix and Government guidelines. Seats may be interchanged between categories following a defined hierarchy if enough candidates in a reserved category are not available.

Key points:

• Minimum qualifying marks are relaxed by 5% for SC/ST/PwBD candidates against reserved seats.
• OBC(NCL) candidates must have a valid non-creamy layer certificate with status valid on 31-01-2026.
• EWS candidates must produce valid Income & Asset Certificate as per DoPT OM dated 31.01.2019 (or declaration at DV stage if certificate not yet available).

PwBD Eligibility

PwBD candidates can apply only against Codes 102, 105, 106, 107, 110 and 111, as per identified seats.

Eligible categories include:

• Low vision, blind.
• Hard of hearing, deaf.
• Musculoskeletal disabilities (OH-OA/OL), dwarfism, acid attack victim, cerebral palsy, leprosy-cured.
• Multiple disabilities combining above.

Candidates must have at least 40% disability and provide certificates as per Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016 and relevant Rules.

Selection Process: How Candidates Are Shortlisted

There is no written test for this apprenticeship. Selection is purely merit-based.

Merit List Preparation

• Selection will be based on percentage of marks (aggregate of all subjects of all years/semesters) in the prescribed qualification for the trade applied.
• Preference is given to candidates applying for apprenticeship training for the first time.
• In case of a tie in percentage:
  • Older candidate (by date of birth) will be ranked higher.
  • If date of birth is also same, candidate with higher percentage in Matriculation is preferred.
• PwBD candidates who availed relaxation in qualification marks will be considered only against reserved seats in their category.
• Final filling of seats is at the discretion of management based on suitability and availability; there is no automatic right to engagement.

Document Verification

Shortlisted candidates (as per merit and seats) will be called for document verification (DV). They must bring originals and self-attested copies of:

• 10th/Matriculation certificate (DoB proof).
• Class XII mark sheet, ITI/Diploma/Graduation semester-wise mark sheets.
• Final certificate of Class XII/ITI/Diploma/Graduation.
• Conversion certificate from CGPA/OGPA/Grade to percentage, if applicable.
• Certificate from Principal mentioning date of result publication and confirming regular full-time mode and good conduct (if date of result is not on mark sheet).
• Category certificates: SC/ST/OBC(NCL)/PwBD/EWS in prescribed format from competent authority.
• Skill Certificate for “Domestic Data Entry Operator” (for Code 111).
• NATS/NAPS registration print with applicant details.
• Affidavit as per Annexure-A regarding previous apprenticeship, if any.
• One original Photo ID (Aadhar/PAN/Voter ID/Driving License/Passport).

SC/ST/PwBD candidates attending DV are eligible for reimbursement of single second-class railway fare by shortest route for distances 30 km or more, on production of tickets.

Medical Fitness

Only candidates who are found medically fit in pre-engagement medical examination as per IOCL guidelines will be finally engaged as apprentices. Medical standards are aligned with the hazardous nature of refinery operations but applied with due consideration for PwBD as per law.

Stipend, Benefits and Training Conditions

Stipend

Stipend will be paid monthly as per Apprentices Act, 1961/1973, Apprentices Rules, 1992 (as amended) and IOCL corporate guidelines. This ensures apprentices receive a regulated and fair stipend during training.

Facilities and Working Conditions

• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Apprentices under Codes 101, 102, 104, 105, 106 and 107 will be provided one pair of safety shoes and a helmet (returnable after training).
• Accommodation/HRA: No company accommodation or HRA is provided.
• Leave & Holidays:
  • General Leave: 32 days (8 days per quarter) including for medical grounds.
  • Casual Leave: 12 days per calendar year (pro-rata).
  • Holidays: Same as observed at the establishment.
  • Unused leave lapses at the end of apprenticeship period.
• Insurance: Apprentices are covered under suitable Accident Insurance policy.
• Discipline: Apprentices are governed by Certified Standing Orders applicable to workmen at the refinery.
• Training period may be extended in specific circumstances in line with Rule 7 of Apprentices Rules, 1992.

Employment After Apprenticeship

IOCL clearly states that completion of apprenticeship does not guarantee employment. The Corporation has no obligation to offer a job, and apprentices cannot claim employment as a right solely due to completing training. However, this exposure in a large refinery significantly improves employability in similar industries.

How to Apply: Step-by-Step Guide

Candidates must complete two mandatory steps for successful application: registration and application on NAPS/NATS, and submission of additional details on Microsoft Forms.

Important Dates

• Opening of online application (NAPS/NATS + MS Forms): 12-02-2026, 10:00 hrs.
• Last date for submission: 25-02-2026, 17:00 hrs.
• Tentative publication of list of candidates called for Document Verification: 03-03-2026.
• Tentative DV dates: 09-03-2026 to 13-03-2026.

Step I: Registration & Application on NAPS/NATS

For Codes 101, 102, 110, 111 (NAPS)

• Register on NAPS portal: https://apprenticeshipindia.gov.in/
• After registration, go to “Apprenticeship Opportunities”, select location corresponding to IOCL Paradip Refinery, and choose the relevant trade.
• Log in and complete the application as guided on the portal, ensuring all details are correct before final submission.

For Codes 104, 105, 106, 107 (NATS/BOAT)

• Register on NATS portal: https://nats.education.gov.in
• After registration, apply to the advertisement/opportunity notified by IOCL Paradip Refinery from your dashboard.
• Verify that personal details, educational information, category and aggregate percentage are correctly reflected.

Establishment IDs

Candidates must ensure they apply to the correct Establishment ID:

Step II: Filling Microsoft Forms

After applying on NAPS/NATS, candidates must fill the additional details on Microsoft Forms at:

• https://forms.office.com/r/N2MzcbgiRE

Key points:

• Submit only one response in MS Forms.
• Use the same email ID and mobile number as used in NAPS/NATS registration; they must remain active for at least one year.
• Ensure Enrollment/Student ID/Registration numbers and all other details match between Step I and Step II.
• Incomplete forms or mismatch between portal and form details may result in rejection.

Application Rules and Cautions

• A candidate can apply for only one trade/discipline; multiple applications will be summarily rejected.
• Candidates are fully responsible for correctness of information submitted.
• False information or forged documents can lead to cancellation of candidature and possible legal action.
• All updates, corrigenda, call letters and results will be published only on www.iocl.com and/or sent via email/SMS.
• IOCL warns candidates not to trust fake job advertisements or agents; recruitment information is only valid if published on official IOCL channels or Employment News/press notifications.

Previous Apprenticeship: Who Can Apply Again

Candidates who completed earlier apprenticeship under a different trade/discipline can apply, subject to specific gap conditions.

• Minimum one-year gap between completion of previous apprenticeship and eligibility date is required in general.
• If previous contract was terminated by employer due to employer’s failure, no gap is required.
• If terminated by candidate due to health/financial hardship/relocation/transport/career change/language barrier, minimum 3-month gap is needed (no waiting period for women).
• Candidates whose previous apprenticeship was terminated due to their own failure to carry out terms of contract are not eligible.

Such candidates must submit an affidavit in the format of Annexure-A declaring their apprenticeship history and gap period.

Why This Apprenticeship Is Attractive for Job Seekers

• Opportunity to train in a large modern refinery of a Fortune Global 500 company, Indian Oil Corporation Limited.
• Structured one-year training in core disciplines like Chemical, Mechanical, Electrical and Instrumentation as well as Data Entry operations.
• Monthly stipend, accident insurance cover, leave, and exposure to real-time plant operations and safety systems.
• Strong value on CV for future recruitment in PSUs, private refineries, petrochemical plants and process industries, even though there is no direct job guarantee.

Job seekers who meet the eligibility criteria and wish to build a strong industrial career should complete both NAPS/NATS registration and Microsoft Form submission well before the last date and keep checking the IOCL website for updates.

FAQs

What is IOCL Paradip Refinery Apprentice Recruitment 2026?
It is a one-year apprenticeship training program announced by Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL), Paradip Refinery under the Apprentices Act, 1961/1973 for technical and non-technical trades.

How many total vacancies are announced?
A total of 342 tentative apprenticeship seats have been announced across various trades and disciplines.

What is the duration of the apprenticeship training?
The training period is 12 months for all notified trades and disciplines.

What are the available trades and disciplines?
The trades include Attendant Operator (Chemical Plant), Fitter (Mechanical), Technician Apprentice in Chemical, Mechanical, Electrical and Instrumentation, and Data Entry Operator (Fresher and Skill Certificate Holder).

What is the minimum educational qualification required?
Candidates must have passed Class XII, ITI, Diploma, or B.Sc in the relevant discipline as specified for each trade.

What is the minimum percentage required?
Minimum 50% aggregate marks are required for General/EWS/OBC candidates and 45% for SC/ST/PwBD candidates against reserved seats.

Are result-awaited candidates eligible?
No, candidates must have passed the required qualification as on 31-01-2026.

Is distance or part-time qualification accepted?
No, only regular full-time qualifications from recognized institutions are accepted.

What is the age limit for applying?
Candidates must be between 18 and 24 years as on 31-01-2026.

Is there age relaxation for reserved categories?
Yes, SC/ST get 5 years, OBC (NCL) get 3 years and PwBD get 10 years relaxation, with additional relaxation for reserved PwBD candidates.

Is there any written examination?
No, there is no written test. Selection is purely merit-based.

How is the merit list prepared?
The merit list is prepared based on aggregate percentage of marks obtained in the qualifying examination.

What happens in case of a tie in marks?
The older candidate is given preference. If the date of birth is also the same, higher marks in Matriculation are considered.

Is there any application fee?
No application fee has been mentioned in the notification.

Can a candidate apply for more than one trade?
No, candidates can apply for only one trade or discipline. Multiple applications will be rejected.

What is the stipend for apprentices?
Stipend will be paid monthly as per the Apprentices Act and IOCL guidelines.

Is accommodation provided during training?
No, IOCL does not provide accommodation or HRA to apprentices.

Are apprentices eligible for leave?
Yes, apprentices are entitled to general leave, casual leave and holidays as per rules.

Is there any insurance coverage?
Yes, apprentices are covered under an accident insurance policy.

Will IOCL provide employment after completion of apprenticeship?
No, there is no guarantee of employment after completion of training.

What is the mode of application?
Application is online through NAPS or NATS portal, followed by submission of details via Microsoft Forms.

What are the important dates to apply?
Online application starts on 12-02-2026 and the last date to apply is 25-02-2026.

What documents are required during document verification?
Candidates must produce educational certificates, mark sheets, age proof, category certificate (if applicable), NAPS/NATS registration proof, photo ID and other relevant documents.

Are candidates with higher qualifications eligible?
No, candidates possessing higher professional qualifications like BE/B.Tech, MBA, MCA, CA, LLB etc. are not eligible.

Can candidates with work experience apply?
Candidates with more than one year of job experience after obtaining the prescribed qualification are not eligible.

Are PwBD candidates eligible?
Yes, PwBD candidates can apply for identified trades provided they have at least 40% disability and valid certification.

Can candidates who completed apprenticeship earlier apply again?
Yes, subject to specified gap conditions and eligibility criteria mentioned in the notification.

Where will updates and results be published?
All updates, merit lists and notifications will be published on the official IOCL website or communicated via registered email/SMS.