Job Description
Overview
Research Centre Imarat (RCI), a premier laboratory under the Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO), Ministry of Defence, has announced an engagement program for 195 apprentices for the year 2027. This initiative provides a structured one-year training opportunity for engineering graduates, diploma holders, and ITI pass-outs to gain practical experience in a high-tech defence research environment. The program operates under the Apprentices Act, 1961, and aims to develop technical skills in alignment with national defence requirements.
Key Responsibilities
- Assist senior technical staff in ongoing research and development projects at the Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Missile Complex.
- Participate in the maintenance, testing, and calibration of sophisticated electronic and mechanical equipment.
- Support the documentation of technical processes and experimental data under the guidance of experienced mentors.
- Engage in hands-on training modules related to missile systems, avionics, and advanced engineering materials.
- Adhere to strict safety protocols and quality standards mandated by the laboratory for all operational tasks.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure the smooth execution of assigned technical projects.
Why Apply
This apprenticeship offers a unique chance to work within a prestigious defence facility, providing exposure to cutting-edge technology and professional mentorship. Participants gain valuable industry-standard training that enhances their employability in the core engineering and manufacturing sectors.
Important Dates
- Minimum Age Reckoning Date: 01 September 2026
- Application Closing Date: 01 November 2026 (30 days from newspaper publication)
Quick Facts
- Total Vacancies: 195
- Location: Vignyana Kancha, Hyderabad
- Training Duration: One Year
- Category: Defence Research
DRDO RCI Apprentice Recruitment 2026 Overview
End Date
01 Nov 2026
Salary
As per Government norms
Vacancies
195
Eligibility
B.E./B.Tech, Diploma, ITI
Application Link
Vacancy Details
- Graduate Apprentice: 50
- Technician (Diploma) Apprentice: 30
- Trade Apprentice (ITI): 115
- Total: 195
How to Apply
- Verify your eligibility against the detailed advertisement available on the official DRDO website.
- For Graduate and Diploma candidates: Register on the NATS 2.0 portal at nats.education.gov.in.
- Log in to the NATS 2.0 portal and apply for the Research Centre Imarat (Enrolment ID: STLRAC000010).
- For ITI Trade candidates: Register on the Apprenticeship India portal at apprenticeshipindia.gov.in.
- Search for 'RESEARCH CENTRE IMARAT' (Establishment ID: E05203600040) under the 'Apprenticeship Opportunities' section.
- Select your trade and submit the application online.
- Ensure all details are accurate and keep a printout of the application and profile for future reference.
Cutoff Marks
Not specified; selection is based on academic merit.
Application Fee
Nil. There is no application fee for any category.
Age Limit
Minimum 18 years as on 01 September 2026.
Selection Process
The selection process is based on academic merit and/or an interview. There is no written examination for this engagement. Shortlisted candidates will be notified via their registered email address. Upon selection, candidates must undergo document verification and provide a valid Police Verification Certificate from their place of residence. Selected individuals are required to execute an apprenticeship contract on the NATS or NAPS portal before the training commences.
Exam Pattern
No written exam is conducted for this recruitment. Selection is strictly based on academic performance and interview evaluation.
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Organization
Research Centre Imarat (RCI) is a premier laboratory under the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), Ministry of Defence, Government of India. Located in the Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Missile Complex in Hyderabad, RCI is mandated to design, develop, and test advanced missile systems and aerospace technologies. It plays a critical role in India's strategic defence capabilities, focusing on avionics, navigation, and control systems for various missile programs.
Frequently Asked Questions
There are a total of 195 tentative vacancies, which include 50 Graduate Apprentice posts, 30 Technician (Diploma) Apprentice posts, and 115 Trade Apprentice (ITI) posts. Please refer to the official notification for any updates regarding these numbers.
The application window closes 30 days from the date the advertisement is published in a newspaper. Based on the publication, the deadline is 01 November 2026. Ensure you submit your application through the respective portals before this date.
Candidates must have secured at least 70% marks or a CGPA of 7.5 and above in their qualifying examination (Graduate, Diploma, or ITI). Only those who passed in 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025, or 2026 are eligible.
B.E./B.Tech and Diploma candidates must apply via the NATS 2.0 portal (nats.education.gov.in). ITI trade candidates must apply through the Apprenticeship India portal (apprenticeshipindia.gov.in). Registration on these portals is mandatory.
The notification specifies a minimum age of 18 years as of 01 September 2026. No upper age limit has been mentioned in the official advertisement.
No, there is no written examination. The selection process is based on academic merit and/or an interview, followed by document verification. Keep your email active for communication regarding the selection process.
The stipend is paid according to Government norms, as referenced in the Gazette Notification dated 03 September 2025. The exact monthly figures are not explicitly stated in the notification.
No, this apprenticeship is conducted under the Apprentices Act, 1961, and there is no obligation for employment at DRDO or RCI upon the completion of the one-year training period.
