IREL Apprentices Recruitment 2026 - Apply Online for 38 Graduate, Technician, Trade Apprentice Posts

IREL (India) Limited, a Mini-Ratna Category-1 Public Sector Undertaking under the Department of Atomic Energy, Government of India, has issued an important notification for the recruitment of Apprentice Trainee positions. This recruitment drive, advertised under reference number IREL/OS/AA/2026 dated April 24, 2026, aims to engage eligible candidates for Graduate, Technician, and Trade (ITI) Apprentice roles. These opportunities are based at the OSCOM Unit located in Matikhalo, District Ganjam, Odisha.

Prospective candidates seeking to gain valuable industrial experience through an apprenticeship with a reputed public sector enterprise are encouraged to review the details carefully. The application window opened on April 24, 2026, and will close on May 15, 2026. The application process involves both online registration on the relevant apprenticeship portal and the submission of a physical hard copy of the application form. There are no application fees associated with this recruitment, making it an accessible opportunity for many.

Quick Facts

About the recruitment

IREL (India) Limited, formerly known as Indian Rare Earths Limited, is a significant entity operating under the Department of Atomic Energy, Government of India. This recruitment drive is specifically for Apprentice Trainee positions across various disciplines, including Graduate, Technician, and Trade (ITI) categories. The apprenticeships are designed to provide practical training and exposure to candidates in a professional environment, aligning with the Apprenticeship Rules, 1992.

The apprentices will be stationed at the OSCOM Unit in Matikhalo, District Ganjam, Odisha. This location offers a unique opportunity for candidates to work in a specialized industrial setting. The recruitment is a structured program aimed at developing skilled manpower, contributing to both individual career growth and the industry's talent pool. The advertisement number for this recruitment is IREL/OS/AA/2026, and it was dated April 24, 2026.

Important Dates

Candidates interested in the IREL Apprentices Recruitment 2026 should note the following critical dates to ensure timely application:

• Notification Date: April 24, 2026
• Application Opens: April 24, 2026
• Application Closes: May 15, 2026
• Age Eligibility Cut-off Date: May 15, 2026 (This is the last date of application, and age will be calculated as of this date).

It is crucial for all applicants to adhere strictly to these deadlines. Applications received after May 15, 2026, will not be considered, regardless of the reason for delay. Candidates are advised to complete both the online registration and the hard copy submission well in advance of the closing date to avoid any last-minute technical issues or postal delays.

Eligibility

The eligibility criteria for the Apprentice Trainee positions are specific to each trade and discipline. Candidates must possess the exact prescribed qualification as detailed in the official vacancy table. It is explicitly stated that higher qualifications will not be permitted or considered for these roles. This emphasizes the importance of matching one's educational background precisely with the requirements for the chosen apprenticeship.

For instance, if a specific trade requires an ITI certificate in a particular discipline, candidates with only a diploma or degree in that field might not be eligible unless explicitly stated. Applicants are strongly advised to refer to the detailed official notification to ascertain the specific qualification required for their desired Apprentice Trainee post. Ensuring that your qualification perfectly aligns with the advertised requirement is the first and most critical step in the application process.

Age Limit

The age limit for the IREL Apprentice Trainee positions is determined as of May 15, 2026, which is also the last date for application. While the official notification specifies a maximum age, it also indicates that age relaxation will be applicable as per government norms. This means candidates belonging to reserved categories such as SC, ST, OBC (Non-Creamy Layer), and Persons with Disabilities (PwD) will be eligible for age concessions.

Candidates should carefully check the official notification for the exact maximum age limit and the specific relaxation periods applicable to their category. It is essential to calculate your age accurately as of the cut-off date. Those who do not meet the age criteria, even after considering applicable relaxations, will have their applications rejected. Understanding these age requirements is vital before proceeding with the application.

Application Mode

The application mode for the IREL Apprentice Trainee recruitment is online. This means that candidates must complete their initial registration and application submission through designated online portals. The online application process is a mandatory step for all applicants.

It is important to note that while the application is primarily online, the official instructions often require a subsequent submission of a hard copy of the application form along with supporting documents. This dual mode of application (online registration followed by hard copy submission) is common in government recruitments and ensures that all necessary documentation is physically verified. Candidates should ensure they complete both parts of the application process to avoid disqualification.

Selection Process

The selection process for the IREL Apprentice Trainee positions is structured and merit-based, ensuring a fair evaluation of all applicants. The process primarily involves two key stages:

### Stage 1: Merit-based Shortlisting

Candidates will be shortlisted based on their academic merit. This typically means that the marks or grades obtained in the prescribed educational qualification will be the primary criterion for shortlisting. The higher the percentage or equivalent grade, the better the chances of being shortlisted. It is crucial for applicants to accurately provide their academic details in the application form.

### Stage 2: Document Verification

Shortlisted candidates will be called for document verification. This stage is critical as it involves verifying the authenticity of all claims made in the application form, including educational qualifications, age, category, and any other relevant details. Candidates must present all original documents along with self-attested photocopies as specified in the call letter. Failure to produce valid documents or any discrepancy found during verification can lead to disqualification. The final engagement is contingent upon satisfactory medical fitness, as certified by IREL's Medical Officer. Candidates should be prepared to undergo a medical examination as part of the final selection.

How to Apply

The application process for the IREL Apprentice Trainee positions requires careful attention to detail, as it involves both online registration and the submission of a hard copy. Follow these steps to ensure a complete and successful application:

1. Online Registration: For ITI/Trade Apprentices, register on the NAPS Portal: https://www.apprenticeshipindia.org. You will need to use the Establishment Code: E0421210003. For Graduate/Technician Apprentices, register on the NATS Portal: https://nats.education.gov.in. You will need to use the Establishment Code: EORGNC000001. * Ensure all details entered during online registration are accurate and match your official documents. Keep a record of your registration number.

2. Fill Application Proforma: * After completing the online registration, download the prescribed application proforma from the official notification. It is advisable to type-write the details on an A4 sheet and print it, preferably back-to-back on the same sheet of paper, if the format allows.

3. Affix Photograph and Attach Documents: Affix a recent passport-size photograph in the designated space on the application form. Prepare self-attested photocopies of all required documents. These typically include educational certificates (mark sheets and passing certificates), age proof, caste certificate (if applicable), disability certificate (if applicable), and any other documents specified in the official notification.

4. Send Hard Copy: Place the filled application proforma with the affixed photograph and all self-attested documents in an envelope. Send the complete application by post or courier, preferably Speed Post, to the address provided in the official notification. The application must reach the IREL OSCOM unit on or before May 15, 2026. Applications received after this date will not be considered. It is highly recommended to send the application well before the deadline to account for any postal delays.

Why this matters

This recruitment drive by IREL (India) Limited offers a significant opportunity for individuals seeking to embark on an apprenticeship journey within a prominent public sector undertaking. Apprenticeships provide invaluable hands-on experience, bridging the gap between academic knowledge and practical industry requirements. For many, this can be a stepping stone to future career prospects in the core sector.

Being associated with a Mini-Ratna Category-1 PSU under the Department of Atomic Energy not only adds prestige to a candidate's profile but also exposes them to high standards of operational excellence and safety. The stipend provided, as per Apprenticeship Rules, 1992, ensures that apprentices are compensated for their training period. Furthermore, the location in Odisha provides an opportunity for local candidates to contribute to their region's industrial development. This recruitment is a chance to gain specialized skills and build a foundation for a successful career in a critical industrial sector.

Summary

The IREL Apprentices Recruitment 2026 presents a valuable opportunity for individuals to gain practical experience and contribute to a key public sector undertaking. Prospective candidates are strongly advised to meticulously review the official notification for comprehensive details regarding eligibility, specific trade requirements, and the application process. Ensure both online registration and hard copy submission are completed accurately and well before the May 15, 2026 deadline. For further information and to apply, visit the official NATS/NAPS portals and the IREL website at https://www.irel.co.in/.

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