By team abhyaspeeth 
Abhyspeeth Desk
New Delhi: Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL), a Maharatna company and one of India’s largest commercial enterprises, has initiated a significant apprentice recruitment drive for the year 2024–25. As part of its ongoing commitment to skill development and nation-building, IOCL’s Refineries Division is inviting applications for apprentice positions across multiple trades and disciplines under the Apprentices Act, 1961/1973 (as amended). The notification, dated May 3, 2025, covers vacancies at nine of its key refineries: Guwahati, Barauni, Gujarat, Haldia, Mathura, Panipat (PRPC), Digboi, Bongaigaon, and Paradip.
The recruitment drive includes openings for both Trade Apprentices and Technician Apprentices in disciplines such as Chemical, Mechanical, and Boiler Operations. Each position offers hands-on industrial training with durations ranging from 12 to 24 months, depending on the discipline.
Among the most prominent trades is the Attendant Operator (Chemical Plant), which requires candidates to have completed a three-year B.Sc. degree with subjects like Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, or Industrial Chemistry. Similarly, the Fitter (Mechanical) trade calls for a Matric qualification along with a two-year ITI certification in Fitter trade. These trades are offered at nearly all participating refineries, with large seat allocations at Gujarat, Panipat, and Haldia.
Another major category is Technician Apprenticeship in Chemical Engineering, which demands a three-year diploma in Chemical, Petrochemical, or Refinery Engineering. This stream alone accounts for over 300 seats across different locations, with the highest concentration at Panipat, Haldia, and Gujarat. The Mechanical Technician Apprentice stream is also open to diploma holders in Mechanical Engineering and is offered at all participating refineries.
Each refinery has released a detailed seat matrix, including reservation breakdowns for categories such as UR, SC, ST, OBC (NCL), EWS, and Persons with Benchmark Disabilities (PWBD). For instance, the Panipat Refinery and Petrochemical Complex (PRPC) offers 98 seats for Technician Apprentices (Chemical) alone, with reserved allocations clearly mentioned.
Candidates selected through this process will undergo structured training in refinery operations and technical fields, gaining exposure to world-class infrastructure and safety standards. The selection process will involve a written examination followed by document verification. IOCL will soon announce the application deadlines, exam dates, and other detailed guidelines on its official recruitment portal.
This apprenticeship program not only offers young aspirants a valuable opportunity to develop practical industry skills but also aligns with the government’s Skill India Mission, contributing to a skilled workforce for India’s energy sector.
For students, diploma holders, and ITI graduates aspiring to build a career in the oil and gas industry, this is a golden opportunity to begin their journey with one of the country’s most prestigious public sector undertakings. Interested candidates are advised to regularly check IOCL’s official website for updates on application procedures and important dates.