DRDO ITR Apprentice Recruitment 2026: Apply Offline for 54 Graduate & Diploma Posts

The Integrated Test Range (ITR), Chandipur, a premier laboratory under the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), has announced the DRDO ITR Apprentice Recruitment 2026. This is an excellent opportunity for young and meritorious Indian nationals to join for 54 Graduate and Technician (Diploma) Apprentice training positions. Candidates with qualifications such as B.E./B.Tech, Diploma, BBA, B.Com, and B.Lib.Sc are eligible to apply for this prestigious 12-month apprenticeship program, offering valuable experience in a defense research environment.

Table of Contents

Overview Table

ProJobAlert.com
DRDO ITR Apprentice Recruitment 2026 Advertisement No.: ITR/HRD/AT/11/2026
Recruitment AuthorityIntegrated Test Range (ITR), DRDO
Post NameGraduate Apprentice & Technician (Diploma) Apprentice
Total Vacancies54
Job LocationITR, Chandipur, Balasore, Odisha
Start Date to Apply09 October 2026
Last Date to Apply02 November 2026
QualificationB.E./B.Tech, Diploma, BBA, B.Com, B.Lib.Sc
Download NotificationClick Here
Official WebsiteClick Here

Full Eligibility Criteria

Candidates applying for DRDO ITR Apprentice Recruitment 2026 must meet specific eligibility criteria including educational qualifications, passing year, and prior experience. Ensure you have registered on the NATS portal before applying.

CriterionDetails
Educational QualificationB.E./B.Tech, Diploma, BBA, B.Com, B.Lib.Sc in relevant disciplines as specified in the notification.
Candidates with higher qualifications are NOT eligible.
Passing YearCandidates must have passed their qualifying examination in 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025, or 2026. Those who passed before 2022 are not eligible.
Mode of StudyOnly candidates who completed their qualifying examination as regular candidates are eligible. Distance education or part-time candidates are not accepted.
Prior ExperienceCandidates with one year or more of training or job experience after obtaining their essential qualification are NOT eligible.
NATS RegistrationMandatory for all B.E./B.Tech/Diploma/BBA/B.Com./B.Lib.Sc. candidates. Non-registered candidates are likely to be rejected.

Salary / Pay Scale

Selected candidates for the DRDO ITR Apprentice positions will receive a monthly stipend during their 12-month training period, as per government guidelines for apprentices.

Apprenticeship CategoryMonthly Stipend
Graduate ApprenticeRs. 12,300/-
Technician (Diploma) ApprenticeRs. 10,900/-
  • The training period is 12 months, commencing from the execution of the apprenticeship contract.
  • This is an apprenticeship training opportunity and not a permanent government job.

Selection Process

The selection for DRDO ITR Apprentice 2026 will involve a rigorous process to identify suitable candidates, primarily based on academic merit and performance in selection rounds.

  • Shortlisting: Candidates will be shortlisted based on their academic qualifications and other eligibility criteria.
  • Written Test / Personal Interview: Shortlisted candidates will undergo a Written Test, Personal Interview, or both, as decided by ITR.
  • Document Verification: Selected candidates must undergo a thorough document verification process before the apprenticeship contract is created.
  • Medical Fitness: A Medical Fitness Certificate is required at the time of joining the apprenticeship.
  • ITR reserves the right to adopt its own method of shortlisting and is not obligated to shortlist all candidates fulfilling minimum requirements.

Exam Pattern

The DRDO ITR Apprentice selection process may include a written test. Details regarding the exam pattern, subjects, and marking scheme will be communicated to shortlisted candidates.

  • Specific details regarding the Written Test syllabus, number of questions, maximum marks, and duration will be notified on the official website or via email to shortlisted candidates.
  • Candidates are advised to regularly check the official DRDO website for updates on the selection process.

Post / Category Wise Vacancy Details

The DRDO ITR Apprentice Recruitment 2026 offers a total of 54 vacancies across various disciplines for both Graduate and Technician (Diploma) Apprentices.

Apprenticeship CategoryQualification / DisciplineVacanciesMonthly Stipend
Graduate ApprenticeB.E./B.Tech - Computer Science & related disciplines08Rs. 12,300/-
B.E./B.Tech - Electronics & related disciplines08
B.E./B.Tech - Electrical Engineering02
B.E./B.Tech - Mechanical Engineering01
B.E./B.Tech - Aerospace Engineering01
B.Lib.Sc - Library Science02
B.E./B.Tech - Safety Engineering02
BBA - Administration / HR04
B.Com - Financial Accounting / Cost Accounting04
Total Graduate Apprentice Vacancies32 
Technician (Diploma) ApprenticeDiploma - Computer Science & related disciplines08Rs. 10,900/-
Diploma - Electronics & related disciplines08
Diploma - Electrical Engineering02
Diploma - Cinematography02
Diploma - Medical Laboratory Technology02
Total Technician Apprentice Vacancies22 
Grand Total Vacancies54 

Job Profile & Responsibility

As a DRDO ITR Apprentice, you will undergo a 12-month training program designed to provide practical exposure and hands-on experience in various defense research and development activities. Responsibilities will vary based on the assigned discipline and project, focusing on skill development and application of theoretical knowledge in a real-world setting.

  • Assist senior scientists and engineers in ongoing research and development projects at ITR, Chandipur.
  • Gain practical experience in areas such as computer science, electronics, electrical, mechanical, and other specialized fields.
  • Learn about the operational aspects and technical requirements of integrated test ranges.
  • Contribute to data collection, analysis, and reporting under the guidance of mentors.
  • Develop a strong foundation in defense technology and innovation through structured training modules.

How to Apply

Candidates interested in the DRDO ITR Apprentice Recruitment 2026 must submit their applications offline via Speed Post or Registered Post. Ensure all required documents are self-attested and the application form is typewritten.

  1. Download Notification & Form: Visit the official DRDO website (www.drdo.gov.in) and locate advertisement ITR/HRD/AT/11/2026 to download the official notification and Annexure-A application form (available in .docx format).
  2. NATS Registration: Ensure your name is registered on the National Apprenticeship Training Scheme (NATS) portal (https://nats.education.gov.in/) and keep your enrollment number ready. This is a mandatory eligibility requirement.
  3. Fill Application Form: Complete the Annexure-A application form. It must be typewritten; handwritten entries are not accepted except for the signature.
  4. Attach Documents: Enclose self-attested photocopies of all necessary documents, including:
    • 10th & 12th certificates and mark sheets
    • Diploma/B.E./B.Tech/BBA/B.Com/B.Lib.Sc. certificates and mark sheets
    • Caste certificate (if applicable)
    • Identity proof
    • Recent passport-size photograph (affixed to the form)
  5. Prepare Envelope: Place the filled application form and documents in a sealed envelope. Super-scribe the envelope with "Application for Apprenticeship Training: Category ........ & Subject/Discipline ........" (e.g., Graduate Apprentice & Computer Science).
  6. Send by Post: Dispatch the application form along with supporting documents by Speed Post or Registered Post only to the following address:
    The Director,
    Integrated Test Range (ITR),
    Chandipur, Balasore,
    Odisha - 756025
  7. Deadline: Ensure your application reaches the ITR, Chandipur, on or before 02 November 2026.
  8. Keep a Copy: Retain a copy of your submitted application for future reference.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the last date to apply for DRDO ITR Apprentice Recruitment 2026?

The last date for receipt of offline applications for DRDO ITR Apprentice Recruitment 2026 is 02 November 2026.

How many vacancies are available in DRDO ITR Apprentice Recruitment 2026?

There are a total of 54 vacancies for Graduate Apprentice and Technician (Diploma) Apprentice posts in DRDO ITR Recruitment 2026.

What are the eligibility criteria for DRDO ITR Apprentice posts?

Candidates must hold a B.E./B.Tech, Diploma, BBA, B.Com, or B.Lib.Sc degree in relevant disciplines, passed between 2022 and 2026 as regular candidates. NATS registration is mandatory, and candidates with prior experience of one year or more are not eligible.

Is NATS registration mandatory for DRDO ITR Apprentice Recruitment?

Yes, NATS registration is a mandatory eligibility requirement. Non-registered candidates are likely to be rejected.

What is the selection process for DRDO ITR Apprentice?

The selection process involves shortlisting based on qualifications, followed by a Written Test, Personal Interview, or both, for shortlisted candidates. Document verification and a Medical Fitness Certificate are also required.

What is the stipend for DRDO ITR Apprentices?

Graduate Apprentices will receive a monthly stipend of Rs. 12,300/-, while Technician (Diploma) Apprentices will receive Rs. 10,900/- per month.

Is this a permanent government job?

No, this recruitment is for a 12-month apprenticeship training and does not guarantee permanent employment with DRDO ITR upon completion.