IREL Tradesman Trainee Recruitment 2026 offers 131 vacancies. Check trade-wise posts, eligibility, salary, age limits, exam pattern, fees and apply online.
IREL Tradesman Trainee Recruitment 2026
IREL (India) Limited has announced recruitment for 131 Tradesman Trainee vacancies under Advertisement No. CO/HRM/36/2026. The opportunity is aimed primarily at technically qualified candidates who hold the relevant ITI or National Apprenticeship Certificate (NAC), together with the prescribed industrial experience.
The recruitment covers four trades: Fitter, Electrician, Instrumentation, and Attendant Operator Chemical Plant (AOCP). Selected candidates will undergo a one-year training programme and may subsequently be absorbed into the company’s regular W-3 grade, subject to the terms of the advertisement and successful completion of training.
The recruitment is particularly relevant for candidates seeking technical employment with a Government of India public sector enterprise operating in the mineral sands and rare-earths industry.
The official advertisement specifies an application window from 24 October 2026 to 13 November 2026, with online applications closing at 6:00 PM on the final day. This is important because some third-party recruitment websites display an earlier deadline of 9 November 2026.
IREL Tradesman Trainee Recruitment 2026
Government of India public sector enterprise
Total vacancies
131
Training stipend
₹34,200/month
Training duration
1 year
Closing date
13 November 2026
Source: Official IREL recruitment advertisement. Verify the latest notices before submitting an application.
Recruitment highlights
Particular | Details |
Organization | IREL (India) Limited |
Advertisement number | CO/HRM/36/2026 |
Recruitment year | 2026 |
Post name | Tradesman Trainee |
Total vacancies | 131 |
Trades | Fitter, Electrician, Instrumentation and AOCP |
Employment arrangement | Training followed by possible absorption into W-3 grade |
Training period | One year |
Monthly training stipend | ₹34,200 |
Pay scale after absorption | ₹22,000–₹88,000 |
General upper age limit | 35 years, subject to the notification’s conditions |
Selection process | CBT, qualifying skill test, document verification and medical examination |
CBT duration | 120 minutes |
CBT questions | 150 |
Negative marking | No negative marking |
Application mode | Online |
Application start date | 24 October 2026 |
Application closing date | 13 November 2026, 6:00 PM |
Official website |
Candidates should read the complete official notification before applying. Eligibility, experience requirements, category certificates, trade-specific qualifications and unit preferences can all affect whether an application is accepted.
About IREL (India) Limited
IREL (India) Limited, formerly known as Indian Rare Earths Limited, is a Government of India enterprise associated with the Department of Atomic Energy. Its operations are connected with mineral sands, the recovery and processing of valuable minerals, and the production of rare-earth-related materials and other mineral products.
The company has an important role in India’s mineral-resource and strategic-materials ecosystem. Mineral sands can contain economically valuable minerals such as ilmenite, rutile, zircon, monazite and other associated mineral resources, depending on the deposit and processing operation.
IREL’s industrial activities require a combination of mining, mineral processing, mechanical maintenance, electrical engineering, instrumentation, process operations, safety management and quality control.
Official company information is available on the IREL website.
Why is this recruitment important?
Industrial plants rely on trained technical personnel to keep equipment operating safely and efficiently. A mechanical failure, electrical fault or instrumentation problem can interrupt production and potentially create safety risks.
Tradesmen working in these environments support essential plant functions, including:
- Maintenance of mechanical equipment, machinery and rotating systems.
- Electrical installation, inspection, testing and fault identification.
- Calibration and maintenance of instruments used to monitor industrial processes.
- Operation and monitoring of chemical or mineral-processing plants.
- Preventive maintenance, equipment inspection and safe-work procedures.
The recruitment provides an opportunity for technically trained candidates to apply their practical skills in an industrial environment rather than limiting their careers to small workshops or local maintenance jobs.
Work culture and career environment
Candidates should understand that employment in a mineral-processing or industrial plant differs from an ordinary office job. Depending on the unit and trade, work may involve machinery, plant equipment, production schedules, protective clothing, safety procedures and shift-based operations.
A technical employee may need to follow written maintenance instructions, report defects to supervisors, maintain equipment records and coordinate with production and safety teams.
The precise work environment depends on the posting. Candidates should not assume that every role is located in a major city or follows standard daytime office hours.
For career planning, it is useful to consider the following factors:
- Technical development: Opportunities to gain experience with industrial equipment and maintenance systems.
- Safety discipline: Strict adherence to electrical isolation, machine guarding, personal protective equipment and plant procedures.
- Teamwork: Coordination with technicians, engineers, operators and supervisors.
- Location: Willingness to work at the unit allocated under the recruitment.
- Long-term employment: Regular-grade absorption is governed by the advertisement and successful completion of training; it should not be treated as unconditional or automatic.
Complete Vacancy Details: 131 Posts
IREL has announced 131 vacancies across four technical trades. The number of vacancies differs significantly by trade, so candidates should consider their qualifications and relevant experience before choosing a post.
Trade-wise vacancy table
Trade | Vacancies | Share of total |
Tradesman Trainee – Fitter | 93 | 71.0% |
Tradesman Trainee – Electrician | 12 | 9.2% |
Tradesman Trainee – Instrumentation | 6 | 4.6% |
Tradesman Trainee – AOCP | 20 | 15.3% |
Total | 131 | 100% |
Percentages are rounded and calculated from the announced total of 131 vacancies.
Fitter accounts for the largest share of vacancies. However, this does not automatically make it the best choice for every candidate. Applicants should select the trade matching their recognized qualification, work experience and applicable eligibility conditions.
Unit-wise vacancy distribution
The recruitment covers several IREL units and facilities across India.
IREL unit/location | Fitter | Electrician | Instrumentation | AOCP | Total |
OSCOM, Chhatrapur, Odisha | 32 | 4 | 4 | 0 | 40 |
Chavara, Kerala | 26 | 3 | 0 | 4 | 33 |
Manavalakurichi, Tamil Nadu | 20 | 4 | 0 | 0 | 24 |
RED, Aluva, Kerala | 13 | 1 | 0 | 11 | 25 |
REPM, Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh | 1 | 0 | 1 | 3 | 5 |
RETTP, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh | 1 | 0 | 1 | 2 | 4 |
Total | 93 | 12 | 6 | 20 | 131 |
Job Listing+1
Reservation and category-wise vacancies
The official notification contains reservation provisions for UR, EWS, SC, ST and OBC-NCL candidates. The applicable allocation varies by trade and unit. Candidates should use the category-wise table in the official PDF rather than relying on an unofficial aggregate estimate.
Reservation eligibility generally requires the prescribed certificates in the applicable format. OBC applicants should verify the non-creamy-layer requirements, while EWS candidates should ensure that their income and asset certificate satisfies the prescribed conditions.
Important application restriction: The recruitment instructions state that a candidate should apply for only one trade and one IREL unit/location. Do not submit multiple applications in an attempt to improve your chances.
Current recruitment status
Application schedule confirmed on the official Careers page
- Notification posting date: 24 October 2026
- Application opening: 24 October 2026, 10:00 AM
- Application closing: 13 November 2026, 6:00 PM
- CBT date: Not announced in the cited recruitment listing
- Skill-test date: To be announced
The official IREL Careers page should be checked for any subsequent corrigendum, examination schedule or extension.
Detailed Job Profile and Key Responsibilities
The role of a Tradesman Trainee combines practical technical training with industrial workplace responsibilities. The exact work assigned will depend on the selected trade, unit, equipment and supervisor’s instructions.
The following responsibilities describe typical work associated with these trades. They are intended as role guidance rather than a verbatim list of duties from the notification.
A. Tradesman Trainee – Fitter
Fitter trainees support the installation, inspection, servicing and repair of mechanical equipment.
Typical responsibilities include:
- Inspecting mechanical assemblies and identifying visible defects.
- Assisting with the maintenance of pumps, valves, bearings, couplings and conveyor systems.
- Learning alignment, fitting, measurement and assembly procedures.
- Using workshop tools, measuring instruments and mechanical drawings.
- Supporting preventive maintenance to reduce unexpected breakdowns.
- Recording maintenance work and reporting abnormal noise, vibration, overheating or leakage.
- Following machine-isolation and other workplace safety procedures.
Skills to develop: Mechanical drawing interpretation, measurement, fits and tolerances, bearing maintenance, fasteners, lubrication, alignment and troubleshooting.
B. Tradesman Trainee – Electrician
Electrician trainees assist qualified personnel with electrical installation, inspection and maintenance.
Common responsibilities may include:
- Inspecting electrical motors, cables, switches and control panels.
- Supporting the maintenance of electrical distribution systems.
- Learning motor starters, protective devices and electrical circuit diagrams.
- Identifying basic electrical faults under authorized supervision.
- Assisting with preventive checks and electrical testing.
- Following electrical isolation, earthing and lockout/tagout procedures.
- Maintaining work records and reporting unsafe conditions.
Candidates should understand that industrial electrical work carries significant safety risks. A valid statutory licence is specifically required for the advertised Electrician trade, subject to the notification’s conditions.
C. Tradesman Trainee – Instrumentation
Instrumentation trainees support systems that measure and control industrial processes.
Typical duties include:
- Learning the operation of temperature, pressure, flow and level instruments.
- Assisting with calibration and routine instrument checks.
- Understanding sensors, transmitters, control valves and signal transmission.
- Reading process diagrams and instrument loop drawings.
- Supporting fault identification in measurement and control systems.
- Recording calibration results and reporting abnormal readings.
- Learning the basics of industrial process control and interlocks.
Preparation priority: Measurement principles, instrument types, calibration, control systems, process variables and electrical/electronic fundamentals.
D. Tradesman Trainee – Attendant Operator Chemical Plant (AOCP)
AOCP trainees support the operation of chemical or mineral-processing facilities.
Depending on the unit, their work may involve:
- Monitoring process parameters and equipment status.
- Assisting with the operation of process equipment according to standard procedures.
- Observing flow, temperature, pressure and level readings.
- Identifying abnormal operating conditions and reporting them promptly.
- Following chemical-handling and plant-safety procedures.
- Supporting routine inspections and operational recordkeeping.
- Learning emergency procedures and the safe shutdown of equipment.
Candidates should be comfortable working in an industrial environment where process discipline and safety compliance are essential.
Reporting structure and tools
A trainee would generally work under the supervision of experienced technical personnel, operators, foremen or engineers, according to the unit’s organizational structure.
Tools and systems may include:
- Mechanical hand tools and measuring instruments.
- Electrical testing equipment and approved maintenance tools.
- Calibration equipment and process indicators.
- Technical drawings, operating procedures and maintenance checklists.
- Computerized work records or maintenance systems where used.
The specific tools, shift pattern, reporting line and training assignments are determined by the unit.
Eligibility Criteria for IREL Tradesman Trainee 2026
Eligibility must be checked against the official advertisement before applying. Candidates who possess an ITI certificate but lack the required experience, or who hold a qualification in a different trade, should not assume that they qualify.
Educational qualifications and experience
Trade | Required qualification | Experience requirement |
Fitter | Relevant ITI/NAC in Fitter | Two years of relevant industrial experience |
Electrician | Relevant ITI/NAC in Electrician and prescribed valid statutory licence | Two years of relevant experience |
Instrumentation | Relevant ITI/NAC in Instrumentation | Two years of relevant experience |
AOCP | Relevant ITI/NAC in AOCP, or the specified Class 12 Science qualification with Chemistry and 50% aggregate marks | Two years of relevant chemical or allied process industry experience |
The advertisement also provides an alternative qualification route for eligible internal IREL candidates, subject to its specified SSC and experience conditions.
Recognized apprenticeship training under the Apprenticeship Act, 1961, may count toward the required experience as specified in the notification. Candidates must retain the appropriate apprenticeship and completion documents.
Age limit
The general upper age limit is 35 years as of the prescribed closing date, subject to the applicable relaxation rules.
Category or circumstance | Stated age relaxation |
UR/EWS | No standard category relaxation |
OBC-NCL | 3 years |
SC/ST | 5 years |
PwBD – UR/EWS | 10 years |
PwBD – OBC-NCL | 13 years |
PwBD – SC/ST | 15 years |
Eligible regular employees of government/PSUs/autonomous organizations | 5 years |
Eligible IREL internal candidates | 10 years |
The advertisement also addresses eligible ex-servicemen and specified Jammu and Kashmir domicile cases. The maximum age after applicable relaxations is subject to the notification’s ceiling of 50 years.
Candidates must not treat age relaxation as confirmation that every post is suitable for every category. The notification states that the advertised posts are not identified as suitable for PwBD candidates; applicants should check the exact suitability provisions and applicable rules.
Nationality and domicile
The recruitment is intended for Indian nationals. Candidates must meet the stated qualification, experience, age and documentation requirements.
Applicants should not confuse state domicile conditions with general nationality eligibility. Any special domicile-based relaxation must be supported by the prescribed evidence.
Medical fitness
Selected candidates must satisfy the prescribed pre-employment medical examination requirements. Industrial work may involve machinery, electrical systems, process equipment and safety-sensitive activities, making medical fitness an important part of the recruitment process.
A candidate should review the official medical requirements rather than assume that qualifying the CBT guarantees appointment.
Document checklist
Prepare the following documents as applicable:
- Recent photograph and signature.
- Date-of-birth proof.
- SSC/Class 10 certificate.
- ITI certificate and mark sheets.
- NAC certificate, where applicable.
- Valid electrician licence, where required.
- Experience certificates showing the relevant work and dates.
- Apprenticeship completion certificate, if claiming qualifying experience.
- Category certificate for SC/ST/OBC-NCL/EWS, as applicable.
- PwBD, ex-servicemen or other relaxation documents, where relevant.
- Identity proof and any additional documents specified in the application portal.
Make sure that names, dates of birth and qualification details are consistent across documents.
Salary, Perks and Benefits
The IREL Tradesman Trainee recruitment offers a consolidated monthly stipend during training, followed by the possibility of absorption into the regular W-3 grade after successful completion of training and fulfillment of the applicable conditions.
Salary structure
Component | Amount or provision |
Monthly training stipend | ₹34,200 |
Training duration | One year |
Annualized stipend | ₹4,10,400 |
Pay scale after absorption | ₹22,000–₹88,000 |
Approximate annual CTC after absorption | ₹6.5 lakh, as indicated in the recruitment information |
HRA during training | May be payable under specified conditions |
Medical facilities | Subject to applicable company rules |
Other benefits | Applicable allowances, insurance, leave and eligible retirement-related benefits |
The annualized stipend is calculated as ₹34,200 multiplied by 12. It is not a guarantee of take-home pay after deductions, nor should it be confused with the annual CTC after absorption.
Apply Now: Click here to Apply Online for 131 Posts
Click here for official detailed advertisement: Detailed advertisement
What does the W-3 pay scale mean?
A pay scale of ₹22,000–₹88,000 represents the advertised range for the regular grade. The amount an employee receives at a particular time depends on the applicable pay rules, grade progression, increments, allowances, deductions and service conditions.
The upper figure of ₹88,000 should not be interpreted as the starting monthly salary. Similarly, the approximate annual CTC of ₹6.5 lakh includes a broader compensation concept and is not necessarily the amount deposited into an employee’s bank account.
Benefits that may be available
Subject to the company’s applicable rules, the advertisement refers to benefits such as:
- Industrial Dearness Allowance and other applicable allowances.
- House Rent Allowance where admissible.
- Medical facilities for the employee and eligible dependants.
- Leave and leave-encashment provisions.
- Life insurance and applicable employee-welfare benefits.
- Loans, advances and eligible incentive schemes.
- Uniforms and other job-related provisions.
- Applicable post-superannuation or retirement-related benefits.
Candidates should verify the conditions, eligibility and current terms in the official notification and company rules.
Comparison with other industrial jobs
ITI-qualified workers may find employment in private manufacturing companies, maintenance contractors, process plants and other public sector enterprises. Compensation varies widely depending on the employer, trade, location, shift pattern, qualifications and experience.
IREL’s advertised stipend provides a clear reference point during training, while its regular-grade pay scale and stated benefits are relevant to candidates evaluating long-term employment.
However, a fair comparison should account for housing costs, location, job security provisions, working hours, training quality and the actual benefits available—not just the headline salary.
Important Dates and Deadlines
The official IREL Careers page lists the recruitment advertisement with an opening date of 24 October 2026 and a closing date of 13 November 2026. Some older third-party listings retain the earlier dates of 19 October to 9 November. Candidates should prioritize the current official recruitment listing and any later corrigendum.
Event | Date/status |
Official Careers listing | 24 October 2026 |
Online application opens | 24 October 2026, 10:00 AM |
Online application closes | 13 November 2026, 6:00 PM |
Fee payment | Complete within the application window, as instructed |
CBT/admit card | Not announced in the cited official listing |
Skill test | To be announced |
Document verification | As notified to shortlisted candidates |
Medical examination | As notified during the selection process |
Practical advice: Do not wait until the final day. Portal traffic, payment failures, incorrect uploads and incomplete forms can create avoidable problems. Submit the application early and save the confirmation page and payment receipt.
Selection Process and Exam Pattern
The recruitment process consists of a Computer-Based Test (CBT), a qualifying skill or trade test as applicable, document verification and pre-employment medical examination.
Candidates should understand the difference between a qualifying stage and a merit-based stage. Passing a qualifying skill test does not replace the need to score well in the CBT.
Stage 1: Computer-Based Test
The CBT evaluates technical knowledge and general aptitude.
Section | Subject | Questions | Marks |
Section I | Professional knowledge relevant to the selected trade | 100 | 100 |
Section II | General knowledge, logical reasoning, numerical ability and English | 50 | 50 |
Total | 150 | 150 |
Examination parameter | Details |
Total duration | 120 minutes |
Question format | Objective multiple-choice questions |
Total marks | 150 |
Negative marking | None |
Language | Hindi and English, subject to the examination instructions |
Minimum qualifying marks | 50% per section for UR/EWS; 45% per section for SC/ST/OBC-NCL, as specified in the advertisement |
The section-wise qualifying requirement is important. A strong score in technical knowledge may not compensate for a score below the qualifying threshold in the other section.
Stage 2: Skill test or trade test
Candidates who meet the CBT requirements may be shortlisted for the relevant skill test. The notification provides for calling candidates in a ratio of five candidates per vacancy, subject to its detailed provisions.
The skill test is qualifying in nature. Depending on the trade and the applicable instructions, it may assess practical trade skills or computer proficiency.
Examples of relevant preparation activities include:
- Fitter: Measuring, assembly, tool identification and mechanical troubleshooting.
- Electrician: Circuit interpretation, electrical safety, component identification and basic fault-finding.
- Instrumentation: Instrument identification, measurement principles, calibration concepts and control-system basics.
- AOCP: Process-equipment knowledge, plant safety, process variables and operating procedures.
These are preparation suggestions, not a confirmed list of practical test stations. Candidates must follow any official trade-test instructions issued by IREL.
Stage 3: Document verification
Shortlisted candidates must present the original documents requested by IREL, together with the prescribed copies.
The verification process may cover educational qualifications, date of birth, relevant experience, apprenticeship records, licences, category certificates and identity information.
Any mismatch, unsupported experience claim or invalid certificate may affect eligibility.
Stage 4: Medical examination
Candidates must satisfy the prescribed medical requirements. Final appointment depends on the applicable selection rules and successful completion of the required formalities.
How is final merit determined?
The recruitment advertisement specifies that final merit among candidates who qualify the applicable skill test is based on CBT marks, with separate trade-wise, category-wise and unit-wise lists.
The absence of negative marking means candidates do not lose marks for incorrect answers under the stated CBT scheme. Nevertheless, random guessing is not an ideal strategy when it consumes time that could be used to solve questions confidently.
Comprehensive Syllabus and Preparation Strategy
The official advertisement identifies the CBT subject areas but does not provide a complete chapter-by-chapter syllabus. The topics below are therefore a recommended preparation framework based on the advertised trades, not a claim that IREL has officially prescribed every listed chapter.
A. Fitter trade: Suggested technical syllabus
Focus on the fundamental knowledge usually covered in fitter training and relevant industrial maintenance work.
- Engineering drawing and basic symbols.
- Measuring instruments, vernier calipers and micrometers.
- Fits, tolerances and limits.
- Hand tools and workshop practices.
- Drilling, tapping, threading and filing.
- Fasteners, keys, couplings and mechanical joints.
- Bearings, lubrication and alignment.
- Pumps, valves, conveyors and basic rotating machinery.
- Preventive maintenance and troubleshooting.
- Workshop safety and machine isolation.
Preparation method: Revise core concepts first, then solve trade-specific objective questions. Practise reading simple mechanical drawings and explaining the purpose of common components.
B. Electrician trade: Suggested technical syllabus
- Electrical fundamentals, voltage, current, resistance and power.
- Ohm’s law and basic circuit calculations.
- AC and DC fundamentals.
- Series and parallel circuits.
- Transformers, motors and generators.
- Motor starters and protective devices.
- Wiring systems, cables, earthing and grounding.
- Electrical measuring instruments.
- Basic industrial control circuits.
- Electrical fault identification.
- Electrical safety, isolation and statutory requirements.
Preparation method: Memorize essential formulae, understand circuit behaviour and practise numerical problems. Revise safety procedures alongside technical concepts.
C. Instrumentation trade: Suggested technical syllabus
- Units and measurement systems.
- Pressure, temperature, flow and level measurement.
- Sensors, transducers and transmitters.
- Analog and digital signals.
- Calibration and measurement errors.
- Control valves and actuators.
- Basic feedback control systems.
- Process diagrams and instrument loop diagrams.
- Electrical and electronic fundamentals.
- Troubleshooting and industrial safety.
Preparation method: Create a table of instruments and their functions, measurement ranges and applications. Practise questions that ask you to match process variables with suitable instruments.
D. AOCP trade: Suggested technical syllabus
- Basic chemistry relevant to industrial processing.
- Acids, bases, salts and chemical reactions.
- Industrial process equipment and unit operations.
- Pumps, tanks, pipelines and valves.
- Temperature, pressure, flow and level monitoring.
- Heat transfer and basic process principles.
- Material handling and process flow diagrams.
- Chemical storage and handling.
- Personal protective equipment and emergency procedures.
- Process monitoring, abnormal-condition reporting and safe shutdown.
Preparation method: Understand the purpose of each unit operation and the process variables that need monitoring. For candidates entering through the specified Class 12 Science qualification, revise chemistry fundamentals in addition to the relevant process knowledge.
E. General knowledge
The non-technical section includes general knowledge. A sensible preparation plan should cover:
- Indian geography, history and civics.
- Basic economics and science.
- Important national institutions.
- Major government initiatives.
- Industrial and energy-sector developments.
- Current affairs from a recent, relevant period.
- Environmental awareness and general scientific developments.
Use reliable sources and maintain concise revision notes. Since the precise distribution of questions across individual topics is not stated in the advertised structure, avoid relying on a predicted question count.
F. Logical reasoning
Suggested topics include:
- Number and alphabet series.
- Analogies and classification.
- Coding-decoding.
- Direction and distance.
- Blood relations.
- Ranking and ordering.
- Basic syllogisms.
- Simple puzzles and logical deductions.
Practise accuracy first, then improve speed through timed sets.
G. Numerical ability
Revise arithmetic concepts commonly used in aptitude examinations:
- Percentages.
- Ratio and proportion.
- Averages.
- Profit and loss.
- Simple and compound interest.
- Time and work.
- Speed, distance and time.
- Fractions and decimals.
- Basic algebra.
- Data interpretation.
Candidates who have not practised mathematics recently should begin with short daily exercises before attempting full mock tests.
H. English language
Recommended areas include:
- Grammar and sentence structure.
- Tenses and subject-verb agreement.
- Articles and prepositions.
- Vocabulary and commonly confused words.
- Synonyms and antonyms.
- Sentence correction.
- Reading comprehension.
- Basic usage and error identification.
Focus on commonly tested grammar rules and practise short reading passages.
A four-week preparation plan
Week 1: Diagnose and revise fundamentals
Days 1–7
- Review the trade syllabus and identify weak topics.
- Revise core technical concepts and formulae.
- Take a short diagnostic aptitude test.
Week 2: Build technical accuracy
Days 8–14
- Study the remaining trade-specific topics.
- Practise technical MCQs daily.
- Revise mathematics and logical reasoning.
Week 3: Timed practice
Days 15–21
- Complete timed section tests.
- Practise general knowledge and English.
- Review incorrect answers and recurring mistakes.
Week 4: Mock tests and revision
Days 22–28
- Attempt full-length 150-question mock tests.
- Practise managing the 120-minute time limit.
- Revise technical notes and prepare for the applicable skill test.
Suggested daily study schedule
Activity | Daily time |
Technical trade preparation | 2 hours |
Numerical ability and reasoning | 45 minutes |
English and general knowledge | 45 minutes |
Practice questions and error review | 30 minutes |
Total | 4 hours |
Adjust the schedule to your current level and available time. Candidates with strong technical knowledge may devote more time to aptitude, while those returning to study after a long break may need additional revision.
Examination-day strategy
- Read the instructions carefully before starting.
- Attempt familiar technical questions first.
- Keep track of time and avoid spending too long on one problem.
- Reserve time for the non-technical section.
- Revisit difficult questions after completing the easier ones.
- Check unanswered questions before submitting.
- Since the stated CBT has no negative marking, use remaining time to make considered attempts rather than leaving questions unanswered without reason.
Application Fees and Payment Mode
The recruitment advertisement specifies different payment requirements for different candidate categories.
Candidate category | Application fee | Processing fee | Total payable |
UR | ₹472 | ₹354 | ₹826 |
EWS | ₹472 | ₹354 | ₹826 |
OBC-NCL | ₹472 | ₹354 | ₹826 |
SC | Exempt | ₹354 | ₹354 |
ST | Exempt | ₹354 | ₹354 |
PwBD | Exempt | ₹354 | ₹354 |
Ex-servicemen | Exempt | ₹354 | ₹354 |
Women candidates | Exempt | ₹354 | ₹354 |
Eligible IREL internal candidates | Exempt | ₹354 | ₹354 |
The amounts include the applicable GST as stated in the recruitment information. The fee is non-refundable.
How to pay
Candidates should use the online payment gateway provided by the official recruitment portal. Depending on the options displayed, the portal may support approved electronic payment methods.
Before paying:
- Confirm that the correct advertisement and trade are selected.
- Check the fee displayed for your category.
- Ensure that the payment account or card has sufficient funds.
- Avoid refreshing or closing the payment page while a transaction is processing.
- Save the payment acknowledgement and application confirmation.
If the transaction fails, check its status before attempting payment again. This helps avoid duplicate payments.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply Online
Applications should be submitted only through the official IREL recruitment portal linked from the Careers page.
Step 1: Visit the official website
Open IREL Careers. Find Advertisement No. CO/HRM/36/2026 for Tradesman Trainees and open the detailed notification and application link.
Step 2: Register on the portal
Follow the portal’s registration procedure. Use an active email address and mobile number that you can access throughout the recruitment process. Save your registration credentials securely.
Step 3: Enter personal and educational details
Fill in your name, date of birth, address, category, qualification, relevant trade, experience and other required information. Match your entries to your official certificates.
Step 4: Upload the required documents
Upload your photograph, signature and other requested files in the prescribed formats. Check the file dimensions, file size and format specified by the application portal.
Step 5: Pay the applicable fee
Complete payment through the approved online gateway. Verify the amount, wait for confirmation and save the receipt.
Step 6: Review and submit
Review all entries, uploaded documents, trade and unit preference before final submission. Submit the application and download or print the final confirmation.
Photograph and signature requirements
The exact upload specifications should be taken from the live application portal and official notification. Do not assume that the file dimensions used for another government recruitment will also be accepted by IREL.
Prepare clear, recent images with the required file size and format. Avoid blurry photographs, cropped signatures, unreadable certificates and files that exceed the portal’s limits.
Final application checklist
Before you submit
- I have checked my trade-specific educational qualification.
- I meet the required experience conditions.
- My age and applicable relaxations are verified.
- I have selected only one trade and one unit/location.
- My certificates and experience documents are ready.
- My photograph and signature meet portal specifications.
- I have checked the fee and payment status.
- I have saved my final application and confirmation receipt.
Official Links: Notification, Application and Website
Use these links to verify the latest recruitment details and access the application system.
Official recruitment notification
Open the detailed IREL advertisement
Open the entry for Advertisement No. CO/HRM/36/2026 and use its detailed-advertisement link to access the current PDF.
Direct online application
Open the recruitment application portal
If the portal does not load, return to IREL Careers and use the application link listed with the advertisement.
Official IREL website
The official Careers page is the primary source for recruitment notices, revised schedules and subsequent announcements.
Conclusion and Final Advice
IREL Tradesman Trainee Recruitment 2026 is an opportunity for technically qualified candidates seeking employment with a Government of India public sector enterprise.
With 131 vacancies across Fitter, Electrician, Instrumentation and AOCP trades, the recruitment covers several industrial skill areas and offers a defined training programme followed by the possibility of absorption into the W-3 grade.
However, candidates should make their decisions based on the complete eligibility criteria rather than the number of vacancies alone. The prescribed ITI/NAC qualification, relevant work experience, age requirements, applicable licence conditions and selected unit all matter.
The most effective approach is to follow three priorities:
- Confirm eligibility first. Check your qualification, experience certificates, age and category documents against the official notification.
- Prepare for both CBT sections. Technical knowledge carries 100 of the 150 marks, but the non-technical section also has a separate qualifying threshold.
- Complete the application carefully. Use the official portal, check your uploads and payment, and retain the final submission confirmation.
The current official application deadline is 13 November 2026 at 6:00 PM. Do not rely solely on older recruitment summaries that show 9 November as the closing date.
For the most reliable updates, keep the official IREL Careers page bookmarked and check it regularly for corrigenda, examination dates and further instructions.
Final recommendation: If you meet the required technical qualification and experience conditions, start your application early and begin a structured preparation plan now. Careful document verification, consistent technical revision and timed practice will help you approach this recruitment with greater confidence.
Disclaimer: This article is an informational recruitment guide, not an official communication from IREL. Recruitment dates, eligibility, fees, vacancy allocations and selection procedures should be verified against the latest official advertisement and any subsequent notices issued by IREL (India) Limited.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. How many vacancies are available in IREL Tradesman Trainee Recruitment 2026?
A total of 131 vacancies have been announced: 93 Fitter, 12 Electrician, 6 Instrumentation and 20 AOCP posts. Unit-wise and category-wise allocations are provided in the official advertisement.
Q2. What is the last date to apply for IREL Tradesman Trainee 2026?
The official IREL Careers listing specifies 13 November 2026 at 6:00 PM as the closing date. Some third-party websites retain an earlier deadline of 9 November. Always check the current official notice before applying.
Q3. What is the educational qualification required?
Candidates generally need a recognized ITI or NAC qualification in the relevant trade, together with two years of relevant industrial experience. The AOCP post has an alternative Class 12 Science qualification route with Chemistry and the specified minimum marks. Read the notification for the exact requirements.
Q4. Can a candidate apply without two years of experience?
Candidates should not assume they are eligible without the prescribed experience. The advertisement specifies two years of relevant experience for the advertised trades, with qualifying apprenticeship training counted as provided in the notice. An ITI certificate alone does not necessarily satisfy the eligibility conditions.
Q5. What is the age limit?
The general upper age limit is 35 years, subject to the specified cutoff date and relaxation provisions. Relaxations apply to eligible categories and other circumstances, and the maximum age after applicable relaxation is subject to the notification’s rules.
Q6. What is the monthly salary during training?
The advertised consolidated training stipend is ₹34,200 per month for one year. Additional provisions, such as HRA, may apply under specified conditions. Candidates should distinguish the training stipend from regular-grade compensation after possible absorption.
Q7. What is the salary after training?
After successful completion of training and subject to the company’s absorption conditions, candidates may be absorbed into the W-3 grade with a pay scale of ₹22,000–₹88,000. The approximate annual CTC is stated as ₹6.5 lakh, but actual compensation depends on applicable rules and benefits.
Q8. Is there negative marking in the CBT?
The recruitment advertisement specifies no negative marking. The CBT consists of 150 multiple-choice questions for 150 marks, with a total duration of two hours. Candidates must also satisfy the prescribed section-wise qualifying marks.
Q9. What subjects should candidates prepare?
Candidates should prioritize technical knowledge relevant to their chosen trade. The other section covers general knowledge, logical reasoning, numerical ability and English. The chapter-wise topics in this article are suggested study areas; consult IREL for any additional examination instructions.
Q10. Is the skill test included in the final merit calculation?
The skill or trade test is qualifying in nature under the advertised process. Candidates must qualify in the applicable test, and final merit among eligible candidates is based on CBT marks in the prescribed trade-wise, category-wise and unit-wise lists.
Q11. Can I apply for more than one trade or unit?
The recruitment instructions state that candidates should select only one trade and one unit/location. Multiple applications or conflicting preferences may lead to rejection. Make your choice carefully before submitting the form.
Q12. What is the application fee?
UR, EWS and OBC-NCL candidates pay ₹826 in total, while the specified exempt categories pay a processing fee of ₹354. The amounts include applicable GST as stated in the recruitment information and are non-refundable.
Q13. Has the IREL examination date been announced?
The cited official Careers listing confirms the application schedule but does not specify a CBT date. Candidates should monitor the official website and their registered contact details for the admit card and examination notice.
Q14. Where can I download the official notification PDF?
Visit IREL Careers, locate Advertisement No. CO/HRM/36/2026 and open the detailed-advertisement link. Use the current version of the PDF, particularly if any corrigendum is published.
Q15. Is selection guaranteed after passing the CBT?
No. Candidates must meet the eligibility requirements, qualify the applicable skill test, pass document verification and satisfy the medical and other appointment conditions. Passing the CBT alone does not guarantee appointment.

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