Job Description

Overview

The High Energy Materials Research Laboratory (HEMRL), a premier research establishment under the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), Ministry of Defence, is inviting applications for the position of Graduate Apprentice. This training program, conducted under the Apprentices Act, 1961, offers a valuable opportunity for fresh graduates to gain practical experience in a high-tech research environment. The laboratory, located in Sutarwadi, Pune, focuses on advanced research and development in high-energy materials.

Key Responsibilities

  • Assist senior scientists and technical staff in ongoing research projects within the laboratory.
  • Maintain laboratory equipment and ensure compliance with safety protocols during experimental procedures.
  • Document research findings, data analysis, and experimental results accurately for project reports.
  • Participate in technical discussions and contribute to the development of innovative solutions for defence applications.
  • Support administrative and library functions as required by the respective departments.
  • Adhere strictly to the Official Secrets Act and internal security regulations of the Ministry of Defence.

Why Apply

This apprenticeship provides a unique platform to work alongside leading experts in the field of high-energy materials. Selected candidates will receive a monthly stipend and gain hands-on exposure to cutting-edge defence technology, significantly enhancing their professional profile for future career opportunities in the core sector.

Important Dates

  • Last date for receipt of application: 28 August 2026

Quick Facts

  • Vacancy count: 50
  • Monthly stipend: ₹15,000
  • Location: Pune, Maharashtra
  • Category: Engineering Recruitment Exams

DRDO HEMRL Graduate Apprentice Recruitment 2026 Overview

End Date
28 Aug 2026
Salary
₹15,000
Vacancies
50
Eligibility
Degree in Engineering, Science, Arts, Commerce, Library Science, or BBA
Application Link

Vacancy Details

  • Chemical Engineering/Technology: 10
  • Mechanical Engineering: 8
  • Aerospace/Aeronautical Engineering: 2
  • Computer Science/Engineering: 5
  • Electrical/Instrumentation Engineering: 2
  • Electronics & Telecommunication Engineering: 3
  • Civil Engineering: 2
  • Chemistry: 9
  • B.A.: 3
  • B.Com: 3
  • Library Science: 2
  • BBA: 1

How to Apply

  1. Register your profile on the official NATS 2.0 portal.
  2. Download the application form from the official DRDO website (drdo.gov.in).
  3. Fill in all required details, ensuring that CGPA is converted to percentage as per university norms.
  4. Sign the application form and attach all necessary self-attested documents.
  5. Send the completed application via post to: The Director, HEMRL, Ministry of Defence, DRDO, Sutarwadi, Pashan, Pune - 411021.
  6. Ensure the application reaches the office by 28 August 2026.
  7. Keep a copy of the submitted application and proof of postage for your future reference.

Cutoff Marks

Not specified.

Application Fee

Nil for all categories.

Age Limit

Minimum 18 years; maximum age as per Apprentices Act, 1961 and NATS 2.0 guidelines.

Selection Process

The selection process involves shortlisting candidates based on academic merit, written tests, or interviews. HEMRL reserves the right to determine the specific method of shortlisting. Meeting the minimum eligibility criteria does not guarantee a call for selection. Final selection is subject to document verification and the approval of the apprenticeship contract by the competent authority. Canvassing in any form will lead to immediate disqualification.

Exam Pattern

Not applicable as the selection is based on academic merit and potential interview/written test rounds as determined by the laboratory.

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Organization

The High Energy Materials Research Laboratory (HEMRL) is a premier laboratory under the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), Ministry of Defence, Government of India. Established to advance research in high-energy materials, the laboratory focuses on the development of propellants, explosives, and pyrotechnics for defense applications. Headquartered in Pune, Maharashtra, HEMRL plays a critical role in India's self-reliance in defense technology by conducting cutting-edge research and providing technical support to various defense projects across the country.

Frequently Asked Questions

It is a recruitment drive by the High Energy Materials Research Laboratory (HEMRL), DRDO, Pune, to engage 50 Graduate Apprentices for one year of training under the Apprentices Act, 1961. This program is designed to provide practical training to fresh graduates in various technical and non-technical disciplines. Check the official notification PDF for full details.

A total of 50 vacancies are notified across 12 disciplines, including Chemical, Mechanical, Aerospace, Computer, Electrical, Electronics & Telecommunication, and Civil Engineering, as well as Chemistry, Arts, Commerce, Library Science, and Business Administration. Please refer to the vacancy table in the notification for the specific distribution of seats.

The last date for the receipt of the offline application is 28 August 2026. Ensure your application reaches the Director, HEMRL, Pune, before this deadline to avoid rejection. It is recommended to send your documents well in advance.

The qualification varies by discipline, ranging from B.E./B.Tech in specific engineering branches to B.Sc. in Chemistry/Computer Science, B.A., B.Com, BBA, and BLIS. Candidates must have passed their qualifying examination within the last five years. Check the official notification for the exact degree requirements for your chosen stream.

The minimum age is 18 years. While the notification does not specify a maximum age, it states that age relaxation and limits follow the Apprentices Act, 1961, Apprentice Rules, 1992, and NATS 2.0 Guidelines. Use an online age calculator to verify your eligibility before applying.

Candidates must first register on the NATS 2.0 portal and then apply offline using the form available at the official DRDO website (drdo.gov.in). The completed application must be sent via post to the Director, HEMRL, Pune. Online-only submissions are not accepted.

Selection is based on shortlisting through academic merit, written tests, or interviews, subject to satisfactory document verification. HEMRL reserves the right to adopt its own shortlisting method. Final selection is confirmed only after the approval of the apprenticeship contract. Keep an eye on your email for further updates.

Selected Graduate Apprentices will receive a monthly stipend of ₹15,000 for all disciplines. This stipend is provided for the one-year training duration as per the government norms. Ensure your bank account is Aadhaar-seeded for the direct benefit transfer of the stipend.
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