Job Description
Overview
The Proof & Experimental Establishment (PXE), a premier laboratory under the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), has announced an apprenticeship program for the year 2026. This initiative aims to provide practical training to engineering graduates and diploma holders in various technical disciplines at their facility in Chandipur, Odisha. The program is conducted under the Apprentices Act 1961, offering a structured one-year training period to enhance the professional skills of young engineers.
Key Responsibilities
- Assist senior technical staff in experimental testing and data collection processes.
- Maintain laboratory equipment and ensure adherence to safety protocols during research activities.
- Participate in the documentation of technical reports and project-related findings.
- Support the maintenance of engineering systems and machinery within the establishment.
- Collaborate with research teams to execute assigned technical tasks efficiently.
- Follow standard operating procedures for all experimental setups and testing environments.
Why Apply
This apprenticeship offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience within a high-security defence research environment. Participants receive a monthly stipend and exposure to advanced engineering practices, which significantly boosts their career prospects in the core technical sector.
Important Dates
- Application Deadline: 12 October 2026
Quick Facts
- Total Vacancies: 50
- Stipend: ₹12,300 (Graduate) / ₹10,900 (Technician)
- Location: Chandipur, Balasore, Odisha
- Category: Defence Research
DRDO PXE Apprentice Recruitment 2026 Overview
End Date
12 Oct 2026
Salary
10900-12300
Vacancies
50
Eligibility
B.Tech, Diploma
Vacancy Details
- Graduate Apprentice (B.Tech): 15 Posts
- Technician Apprentice (Diploma): 35 Posts
How to Apply
- Visit the official DRDO website at www.drdo.gov.in to download the application form.
- Fill out the form using a computer; handwritten applications will be summarily rejected.
- Enter all required personal, educational, and NATS registration details accurately.
- Affix a recent passport-size photograph and sign the declaration section.
- Attach self-attested copies of mark sheets and relevant reservation certificates.
- Send the completed application via Speed Post or Registered Post to: The Director, Proof & Experimental Establishment (PXE), PO- Chandipur, Dist- Balasore, Odisha- 756025.
- Clearly label the envelope with the post and discipline applied for.
- Ensure the application reaches the destination by 12 October 2026.
- Keep a photocopy of the submitted application for your personal records.
Cutoff Marks
Not specified
Application Fee
There is no application fee mentioned for any category. The application process is free of cost.
Age Limit
The official notification does not specify a minimum or maximum age limit for this apprenticeship program. Eligibility is primarily determined by the year of passing and NATS registration status.
Selection Process
The selection process is conducted by the PXE Selection Board. Initially, applications are screened based on the percentage of marks secured in the essential qualification. Shortlisted candidates are then invited for a written test or an interview held at the PXE facility in Chandipur. Final selection is based on performance in these stages, and successful candidates receive their joining letters via email.
Exam Pattern
The official notification does not provide details regarding the syllabus, marks weightage, or specific pattern for the written test or interview. Candidates are advised to prepare based on their core engineering curriculum.
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Organization
The Proof & Experimental Establishment (PXE) is a premier laboratory under the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), Ministry of Defence, Government of India. Located in Chandipur, Odisha, it serves as a critical facility for the testing and evaluation of various weapon systems and ammunition. The establishment plays a vital role in ensuring the quality and reliability of defence equipment through rigorous experimental trials, contributing significantly to the nation's self-reliance in defence technology.
Frequently Asked Questions
A total of 50 vacancies are available, comprising 15 Graduate Apprentice (B.Tech) posts and 35 Technician Apprentice (Diploma) posts across various engineering disciplines. Check the official notification for the detailed branch-wise breakdown.
The completed application form must be received at the PXE, Chandipur office via Speed Post or Registered Post on or before 12 October 2026. Ensure you post it well in advance to avoid postal delays.
No, there is no online application portal. You must download the application form from the official DRDO website, fill it out using a computer, and submit it physically via post.
Yes, registration on the National Apprenticeship Training Scheme (NATS) portal is mandatory. Applications from candidates without a valid NATS Enrollment Number will be rejected during the screening process.
Selected Graduate Apprentices (B.Tech) will receive a monthly stipend of ₹12,300, while Technician Apprentices (Diploma) will receive ₹10,900 per month for the duration of their one-year training.
Candidates who have completed their B.Tech or Diploma in the relevant discipline during 2022–2026 through a regular mode of study are eligible. Post-graduates and those with over one year of experience are not eligible.
The selection process involves shortlisting candidates based on the percentage of marks obtained in their essential qualification. Shortlisted individuals will then be called for a written test or interview at the PXE facility in Chandipur.
No, this is a one-year apprenticeship training program under the Apprentices Act 1961. It does not confer any right to regular employment or permanent absorption within PXE or DRDO.
