IOCL Paradip Refinery Recruitment 2026 - Apply Online for 342 Trade and Technician Apprentice Posts

Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL), India's flagship national oil company and a Fortune Global 500 enterprise, has announced a massive recruitment drive for 342 Apprentice positions at its prestigious Paradip Refinery for the year 2026. This recruitment offers an exceptional opportunity for young, talented individuals to begin their careers with one of India's most respected public sector undertakings while gaining valuable hands-on industrial experience. The Paradip Refinery, located in Odisha, is one of IOCL's newest and most technologically advanced refineries with a capacity of 15 Million Metric Tonnes Per Annum (MMTPA). This state-of-the-art facility processes crude oil into various petroleum products including petrol, diesel, LPG, and other valuable petrochemicals. The refinery is designed with cutting-edge technology, emphasizing safety, environmental protection, and operational excellence. This apprenticeship program operates under the Apprentices Act, 1961, which aims to provide practical training to young individuals in various technical trades and disciplines. The program combines on-the-job training with theoretical learning, enabling apprentices to develop job-specific skills, understand industrial operations, and prepare for successful careers in the petroleum and petrochemical industry. The recruitment encompasses multiple disciplines and categories. Trade Apprentices are being recruited for various ITI trades including Fitter, Electrician, Instrument Mechanic, Welder, Machinist, Turner, and other technical trades. These positions require candidates who have completed their ITI (Industrial Training Institute) certification in the respective trade from government-recognized institutes. Trade apprentices receive hands-on training in maintenance operations, equipment handling, safety procedures, and technical skills specific to refinery operations. Technician Apprentices are being recruited for engineering disciplines including Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Instrumentation Engineering, and related specializations. These positions require candidates with Diploma qualifications in engineering from recognized institutions. Technician apprentices gain exposure to process operations, equipment maintenance, quality control, safety management, and various technical aspects of refinery operations. Graduate Apprentices positions are available for candidates with B.Sc degrees in Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics, or Industrial Chemistry. These apprentices work in laboratories, quality control departments, and technical sections, gaining practical experience in analytical techniques, quality assurance, process monitoring, and scientific applications in the petroleum industry. The apprenticeship program offers a competitive monthly stipend as per the Apprentices Act and IOCL guidelines. While exact stipend amounts vary based on qualification and discipline, they typically range from Rs. 7,000 to Rs. 11,040 per month for different categories. In addition to the stipend, apprentices receive free medical facilities, accident insurance coverage, and access to IOCL's excellent infrastructure and facilities. The duration of apprenticeship varies based on the trade and discipline, typically ranging from one to three years. During this period, apprentices undergo structured training programs covering theoretical knowledge, practical skills, safety training, quality management, and overall professional development. The training is conducted by experienced professionals and follows industry-standard curricula approved by regulatory authorities. One of the most attractive aspects of IOCL apprenticeships is the potential for permanent absorption. Upon successful completion of the apprenticeship program, candidates become eligible for direct recruitment to regular positions in IOCL and other public sector oil companies, subject to vacancies and organizational requirements. Many former apprentices have successfully secured permanent positions, making this an excellent career launchpad. The age limit for this recruitment is minimum 18 years and maximum 24 years as on January 31, 2026. Age relaxations are provided as per government norms: SC/ST candidates get 5 years relaxation, OBC candidates get 3 years, and Persons with Benchmark Disabilities (PwBD) get 10 years age relaxation. This ensures equal opportunity for candidates from all backgrounds. The selection process is based on merit determined through marks obtained in the qualifying examination (ITI/Diploma/Degree). Candidates are shortlisted based on their academic performance, and final selection is made as per prescribed procedures. There is no written test or interview for apprentice positions – selection is purely merit-based. Interested candidates must apply online through the National Apprenticeship Training Scheme (NATS) portal at nats.education.gov.in. The online application process requires candidates to register, fill in personal and educational details, upload scanned documents (photograph, signature, educational certificates), and submit the application. The last date for online application is February 25, 2026. Candidates are advised to read the official detailed advertisement carefully before applying, as it contains specific eligibility criteria, document requirements, important instructions, and district-wise vacancy distribution. Only Indian nationals are eligible to apply. This recruitment represents an outstanding opportunity to gain industrial experience in one of India's premier refineries, receive quality training, earn a stipend, and potentially secure permanent employment in the prestigious petroleum sector.