Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) Trade Apprentice Recruitment 2026 – Apply Online for 495 Seats across 18 Trades in Mumbai

Vacancies: 495 · Posts: 18 Trades · Type: Apprenticeship Training · Mode: Online · Fee: ₹100 / Nil · Apply: 11 June–01 July 2026 · Stipend: As per Apprentices Act · Selection: Online CBT + DV + Medical · Location: Mumbai (Training at ATS)

Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL), a premier Navratna defence PSU under the Ministry of Defence, Government of India, has opened applications for 495 Trade Apprentice seats under the Apprentices Act, 1961. This is one of the larger apprenticeship drives by a defence shipyard this year, offering hands-on training in shipbuilding trades at its Apprentice Training School in Mumbai.

The recruitment covers three groups: Group A for 10th pass candidates (100 seats, 2-year training), Group B for ITI pass candidates (355 seats, 1-year training), and Group C for 8th pass candidates (40 seats). Applications are open from 11 June 2026 to 01 July 2026 through the official MDL portal. An online computer-based test is tentatively scheduled for 25 July 2026.

This opportunity suits candidates seeking practical skill development in high-demand technical trades within India’s defence manufacturing sector. Training is conducted only at MDL’s facility in Mumbai. There is no automatic claim for permanent employment after completion.

Also Read: HAL Koraput Trade Apprentice Recruitment 2026 – Apply Offline for NAPS Ex-ITI Posts in 8 Trades

Who Should Apply? (Quick Eligibility Check)

• 10th pass with Science & Mathematics (minimum 50% aggregate for General/OBC/SEBC/EWS/PwD/AFC; pass class for SC/ST) → Group A trades (Draftsman Mechanical, Electrician, Fitter, Pipe Fitter, Structural Fitter) – 100 seats
• ITI pass in relevant trade (minimum 50% aggregate for General/OBC/SEBC/EWS/PwD/AFC; pass class for SC/ST; final year students must pass by 01 October 2026) → Group B trades (Fitter Structural, Draftsman Mechanical, Electrician, ICTSM, Electronic Mechanic, RAC, Painter General, Pipe Fitter/Plumber, Welder, COPA, Wood Work Technician/Carpenter) – 355 seats
• 8th pass with Science & Mathematics (minimum 50% aggregate for General/OBC/SEBC/EWS/PwD/AFC; pass class for SC/ST) → Group C trades (Rigger, Welder Gas & Electric) – 40 seats
• Female candidates → 30% horizontal reservation across all groups and categories
• PwBD candidates (minimum 40% benchmark disability) → Horizontal reservation as per RPWD Act, 2016 (Hearing Impaired considered only in Pipe Fitter trade)

Note: ITI-passed candidates are strictly ineligible for Group A and Group C. Applying to the wrong group will lead to rejection.

About Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) & Why This Role Matters

Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) – Overview

Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) is a listed Navratna public sector undertaking under the Ministry of Defence, Department of Defence Production, Government of India. Headquartered in Mumbai, Maharashtra, it is one of India’s leading defence shipyards specialising in the construction and repair of warships, submarines, and other naval vessels. MDL plays a key role in India’s self-reliance in defence manufacturing.

Why Candidates Search for MDL Trade Apprentice Jobs

MDL apprenticeships are popular because they provide structured, hands-on training in shipbuilding and marine engineering trades at a reputed defence PSU. The company has a strong reputation for quality training and exposure to real defence projects. The Mumbai location offers access to a major industrial and port city, though candidates must arrange their own accommodation as no hostel facility is provided.

The main downside is that this is pure apprenticeship training under the Apprentices Act, 1961. There is no automatic absorption into permanent employment after completion. Many candidates use it as a stepping stone for future MDL or other PSU recruitments, where the certificate and experience add value. If you are looking for immediate permanent government job security, this may not be the right fit.

Why this MDL Trade Apprentice opportunity is attractive:

• Structured training in 18 technical trades at a premier defence shipyard.
• Monthly stipend credited directly to your bank account via ECS.
• 30% horizontal reservation for women and PwBD provisions as per rules.
• Opportunity to gain a nationally recognised National Apprenticeship Certificate.

The SahisarkariJobs.in Analyst’s Take – Is This MDL Trade Apprentice for You?

This is a solid, well-structured apprenticeship drive by a Navratna defence PSU. With 495 seats across 18 trades and a transparent CBT-based selection, it offers better scale than many smaller PSU apprenticeship notifications. It particularly suits candidates from Maharashtra and nearby states who want practical shipbuilding skills without the pressure of a permanent job hunt immediately.

Best-fit candidates are 10th/ITI/8th pass youth genuinely interested in technical trades like welding, fitting, electrical work, or drafting in a marine/defence environment. Those who enjoy hands-on work and are okay with 1–2 years of training in Mumbai will benefit most.

Who should skip this one: Candidates who are only applying because “it is a government opportunity” and expect permanent absorption right after training. Also, skip if you have already completed a higher qualification and are not willing to start at the apprentice level, or if you cannot arrange to stay in Mumbai for the full training period.

Practical tip: Choose your preferred trade carefully during document verification and trade allotment. Once allotted and accepted, no change is allowed. Prepare well for the CBT — the syllabus is straightforward, but Group B has trade-specific questions that require ITI-level revision.

Unlike many other PSU apprenticeships (e.g., BHEL or HAL graduate/diploma routes), this MDL drive has a clear three-group structure and a single CBT for all, making it more accessible for school-level candidates. However, the lack of guaranteed absorption remains the honest trade-off.

Quick Overview – Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) Trade Apprentice Recruitment 2026

• Organisation: Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL)
• Sector: Defence & Shipbuilding (Navratna PSU under Ministry of Defence)
• Recruitment / Exam Name: Trade Apprentice Batch 2026
• Post / Trade / Exam Name(s): 18 Trades across Group A (10th), Group B (ITI), Group C (8th)
• Total Seats: 495
• Job Location / Exam Centre: Training at MDL Apprentice Training School (ATS), Mumbai. Exam centres in Mumbai, Thane, Pune, Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar (Aurangabad), Nagpur, Latur, Kolhapur, Nashik (choose 2 preferences)
• Job Type / Nature: Apprenticeship Training under Apprentices Act, 1961 (no permanent claim)
• Monthly Stipend: As per Apprentices Act, 1961 (credited via ECS; PAN mandatory)
• Apply / Register Between: 11 June 2026 to 01 July 2026
• Apply Online: Apply for MDL Trade Apprentice 2026 (opens 11 June 2026)
• Notification PDF: Download MDL Trade Apprentice Recruitment 2026 Notification PDF
• Official Portal: https://mazagondock.in

Important Dates – MDL Trade Apprentice Recruitment 2026

What Is the Application Fee? – MDL Trade Apprentice 2026

Payment Mode: Online through the MDL Apprentice portal only.

Also Read: HAL Koraput Trade Apprentice Recruitment 2026 – Apply Offline for NAPS Ex-ITI Posts in 8 Trades

How to Apply for MDL Trade Apprentice 2026? (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Main Application Process on MDL Portal

1. Visit the official MDL website https://mazagondock.in and navigate to Careers → Online Recruitment → Apprentice (portal opens on 11 June 2026).
2. Click on “Create New Account” and register with your valid email ID and mobile number.
3. Log in, fill out the online application form carefully with personal, educational, and trade preference details.
4. Upload required documents (photo, signature, educational certificates, caste/disability certificate if applicable) in the prescribed format and size. Need to resize your photo or signature? Use our Photo & Signature Resizer.
5. Pay the application fee (if applicable) through the online payment gateway.
6. Submit the form and take a printout of the application and fee receipt for future reference.

Important: You can edit the application until the last date (01 July 2026). No offline applications are accepted.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Applying to Group A or Group C after completing ITI (strictly ineligible — candidature will be cancelled).
• Uploading unclear or incorrect documents — originals must match at document verification.
• Not having a savings bank account with ECS facility and a valid PAN card (stipend payment will be affected, and TDS may be deducted).
• Choosing exam centres without checking convenience — once allotted, change requests are generally not entertained.
• Missing the trade allotment session after CBT — absence leads to rejection.

माझगाव डॉक शिपबिल्डर्स लिमिटेड ट्रेड अप्रेंटिस भर्ती 2026

माझगाव डॉक शिपबिल्डर्स लिमिटेड (MDL) ही संरक्षण मंत्रालयाची नवरत्न कंपनी आहे. त्यांनी २०२६ साठी ४९५ ट्रेड अप्रेंटिस जागांसाठी अर्ज मागवले आहेत. हे अप्रेंटिसशिप अॅक्ट १९६१ अंतर्गत प्रशिक्षण आहे. अर्ज ११ जून २०२६ ते १ जुलै २०२६ पर्यंत ऑनलाइन करता येतील.

Group A साठी १०वी पास (विज्ञान व गणित) उमेदवार १०० जागांसाठी अर्ज करू शकतात. Group B साठी ITI पास उमेदवार ३५५ जागांसाठी पात्र आहेत. Group C साठी ८वी पास उमेदवार ४० जागांसाठी अर्ज करू शकतात. स्त्रियांना ३०% क्षैतिज आरक्षण आहे.

अर्ज https://mazagondock.in वर करावा. परीक्षा २५ जुलै २०२६ (अंदाजे) रोजी होईल. प्रशिक्षण मुंबईतील MDL Apprentice Training School येथे होईल. पूर्ण झाल्यानंतर कायमस्वरूपी नोकरीची हमी नाही.

Post-wise Vacancy & Eligibility – MDL Trade Apprentice 2026

Vacancy Interpretation Note: Group B (ITI) has the highest number of seats (355 out of 495). Welder, Electrician, Fitter, and Structural and Pipe Fitter trades have the largest individual vacancies. Group A and Group C have smaller but steady intake. Women candidates have 30% horizontal reservation across everything. Choose your group and trade carefully — wrong group applications are rejected outright.

Group A – 10th Class Passed (100 Seats, 2 Years Training, Age 15–19 years as on 01-10-2026)

Qualification: Passed SSC (10th) with General Science and Mathematics. General/OBC/SEBC/EWS/PwD/AFC: Minimum 50% aggregate. SC/ST: Pass class only.

Group B – ITI Passed (355 Seats, 1 Year Training, Age 16–21 years as on 01-10-2026)

Qualification: Passed ITI in the relevant trade from a Government or Government-recognised ITI. General/OBC/SEBC/EWS/PwD/AFC: Minimum 50% aggregate. SC/ST: Pass class only. Final year ITI students must pass by 01 October 2026.

Group C – 8th Class Passed (40 Seats, Age 14–18 years as on 01-10-2026)

Qualification: Passed 8th Standard with Science and Mathematics. General/OBC/SEBC/EWS/PwD/AFC: Minimum 50% aggregate. SC/ST: Pass class only.

Who Is Eligible for the MDL Trade Apprentice 2026? – Education, Age & Domicile

1. Nationality, Domicile & Basic Requirements

• Must be a citizen of India (or subject of Nepal/Bhutan/Tibetan refugee/PIO as per rules with an eligibility certificate.
• No specific domicile requirement mentioned — candidates from across India can apply.
• Valid ID proof is required at all stages.

2. Educational Qualification (Post-wise / Trade-wise)

See the detailed vacancy tables above for group-wise and trade-wise qualifications. Higher-qualified candidates may apply, but eligibility is judged on the minimum prescribed qualification only.

Key Rules:

• Cut-off date for educational qualification: 01 October 2026
• ITI candidates are not eligible for Group A and Group C.
• Final year ITI students (Group B) must pass on or before 01 October 2026.

3. Age Limit (as on 01 October 2026)

Examples:

• ✅ An 18-year-old General candidate born on 15 March 2008 — eligible for Group A (within 15–19 limit as on 01-10-2026).
• ❌ A 20-year-old General candidate born on 10 August 2006 — not eligible for Group A (exceeds 19-year maximum).

Not sure if you meet the age criteria? Use our Age Eligibility Calculator to check instantly.

4. Additional Eligibility

• A valid savings bank account with ECS facility and a PAN card are mandatory for stipend payment.
• Medical fitness as per the Apprentices Rules, 1992, is required at joining.

5. Reservation & PwBD Suitability (Summary)

• 30% horizontal reservation for women across all groups and categories.
• PwBD horizontal reservation as per the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016.
• Hearing Impaired (HI) candidates are considered only in the Pipe Fitter trade.

What Is the Stipend? – MDL Trade Apprentice 2026

Apprentice Stipend Details

Important Clarification: This is not a regular salary; it is a training stipend designed to support skill development. There is no permanent employment guaranteed after completion.

How Are Candidates Selected? – MDL Trade Apprentice 2026

Stages Overview

1. Online Examination (Computer-Based Test – CBT) Mode: Online (100 multiple choice questions, 2 hours) Summary: Merit-based shortlisting. Syllabus differs by group (English & GK common; Group B has a trade theory focus).
2. Document Verification and Trade Allotment Mode: In-person at MDL Summary: Highest merit candidates called group and category-wise. Trade allotted on the same day based on merit and availability. Once accepted, no change allowed.
3. Medical Examination Mode: At MDL or designated centre. Summary: Must be medically fit as per the Apprentices Rules, 1992. Specialist tests (if needed) at the candidate’s cost.

Tie-breaking Rules: As per MDL rules (usually merit in CBT, followed by date of birth or other criteria mentioned in the brochure).

What Documents Are Required? – MDL Trade Apprentice 2026

At the time of Online Application / Registration

• Recent passport-size photograph and signature (in prescribed format)
• Educational certificates / marksheets (10th / 8th / ITI as applicable)
• Caste / Category certificate (if applicable)
• PwBD certificate (if applicable)
• Aadhaar card or other valid ID proof

At Document Verification / Joining

• All original educational certificates and marksheets
• Original caste/category / PwBD certificate
• Valid PAN card and savings bank passbook/account details
• Medical fitness certificate (as directed)
• Character certificate/police verification (as required)
• 3–4 recent passport-size photographs

⚠️ Document Alert Specific to This Recruitment

ITI candidates applying for Group B must ensure all backlog papers are cleared and certified by the institute head. Final year ITI students must produce a passing certificate by 01 October 2026, or their candidature will be cancelled. Absence at the trade allotment session after CBT leads to outright rejection — no second chance.

Apprenticeship Terms & Conditions

• Apprenticeship Act: Governed by the Apprenticeship Act, 1961 and Apprenticeship Rules, 1992.
• Apprenticeship Duration: 1 year (most Group B & some Group C) or 2 years (Group A and Rigger in Group C).
• Stipend: As per Apprentices Act, 1961 (paid via ECS).
• No Permanent Claim: Completion does not automatically guarantee permanent employment in MDL.
• Skill Development Focus: Hands-on training in shipbuilding and marine trades at ATS, Mumbai.
• Leave & Benefits: As per the Apprentices Act.
• TA/DA & Accommodation: No hostel or TA/DA provided. Candidates must arrange their own stay in Mumbai.
• Other Financial Benefits: PAN card mandatory; otherwise, TDS deducted from stipend as per rules.

What Happens After Selection? – MDL Trade Apprentice 2026

1. Selected candidates receive communication for document verification and trade allotment at MDL, Mumbai.
2. Candidates appear with all original documents; trade is allotted on merit-cum-availability basis on the same day.
3. Accepted candidates complete contract registration in the presence of a parent/guardian and join the MDL Apprentice Training School (ATS), Mumbai.
4. Undergo structured on-the-job and classroom training for the prescribed duration (1 or 2 years) as per the trade.
5. Appear for periodic assessments and final trade test conducted as per Apprentices Act norms.
6. On successful completion, receive the National Apprenticeship Certificate. This certificate and experience help in future job applications, but there is no automatic permanent absorption into MDL.

General Instructions & Important Rules

• Only one application per candidate is allowed. Multiple applications will lead to rejection.
• All communication will be sent to the registered email and mobile number — keep them active.
• MDL reserves the right to cancel or modify the recruitment process at any stage.
• Any form of canvassing or false information will result in disqualification and debarment.

Contact & Helpline – MDL Trade Apprentice Recruitment

• Helpline Email: mdlats@mazdock.com
• Helpline Phone: 022-2376 4151 / 4155
• Support Timings: As mentioned on the official portal (generally working hours)
• Official Website: https://mazagondock.in (regularly check the Apprentice section for updates)

Important Links – MDL Trade Apprentice Recruitment 2026

FAQs – MDL Trade Apprentice Recruitment 2026

Q1: What is the last date to apply for the MDL Trade Apprentice Recruitment 2026?

A: 01 July 2026. No extension has been announced. Complete registration and fee payment before the deadline.

Q2: What is the age limit for MDL Trade Apprentice posts?

A: Group A (10th): 15–19 years; Group B (ITI): 16–21 years; Group C (8th): 14–18 years (all as on 01 October 2026). SC/ST get 5 years relaxation, OBC get 3 years, and PwBD get 10 years.

Q3: Is there an exam for the MDL Trade Apprentice selection?

A: Yes — a single online Computer-Based Test (CBT) of 100 marks and 2 hours duration. Syllabus varies by group. No interview. Shortlisting is purely merit-based from the CBT.

Q4: What is the stipend for the MDL Trade Apprentice?

A: Monthly stipend as per the Apprentices Act, 1961. It is credited directly to your savings bank account via ECS. Exact current rates are governed by government guidelines and MDL rules. A PAN card is mandatory.

Q5: Can final-year ITI students apply for the MDL Trade Apprentice 2026?

A: Yes for Group B only. You must pass the final ITI examination on or before 01 October 2026. Candidates passing after this date will not be considered.

Q6: Is MDL Trade Apprentice a permanent government job?

A: No. This is apprenticeship training under the Apprentices Act, 1961. Completion gives you a National Apprenticeship Certificate and valuable experience, but there is no automatic claim for permanent employment in MDL.

Q7: Can candidates from other states apply for the MDL Trade Apprentice?

A: Yes. There is no domicile restriction mentioned. Candidates from across India can apply, provided they meet the educational and age criteria.

Q8: Where will I be posted/trained if selected?

A: All training happens at MDL Apprentice Training School (ATS), Mumbai. You must arrange your own accommodation in Mumbai for the entire training period. No hostel facility is provided.

Q9: Will I get a permanent job in MDL after completing the apprenticeship?

A: No guarantee. The apprenticeship provides skill training and a nationally recognised certificate. Absorption into permanent posts depends on future vacancies, your performance, and MDL’s recruitment needs. Many past apprentices do get preference in later recruitments, but it is not assured.

Q10: What are the disadvantages of this MDL apprenticeship?

A: The biggest trade-off is the lack of permanent job security after training. You must self-arrange a stay in Mumbai. The stipend is modest compared to regular jobs. If you are not genuinely interested in technical shipbuilding trades, the hands-on nature of the work may not suit you.

Q11: How competitive is the MDL Trade Apprentice Recruitment 2026?

A: With 495 seats and a single CBT, it is reasonably accessible compared to graduate-level PSU recruitments. However, popular trades like Welder, Electrician and Fitter Structural will see higher competition within their categories. Thorough preparation for the trade-specific portion (Group B) is essential.

Q12: Can I change my allotted trade after document verification?

A: No. Once you accept the trade allotted during the document verification and trade allotment session, no change is permitted under any circumstances.

Q13: Is there any bond or service agreement after training?

A: No service bond is mentioned for this apprenticeship. However, you are expected to complete the full training period as per the contract signed at the time of joining.

Pre-Apprenticeship Checklist – Before You Apply

Use this checklist before you apply:

• You meet the exact educational qualification for the group you are applying to (10th / ITI / 8th) as on 01 October 2026.
• You understand this is apprenticeship training under the Apprentices Act with no automatic permanent employment after completion.
• You are ready for hands-on technical training in shipbuilding trades at Mumbai for 1–2 years and can arrange your own accommodation.
• You have (or can open) a savings bank account with an ECS facility and will obtain a PAN card before joining.
• You are prepared to appear for the online CBT on the tentative date of 25 July 2026 and attend document verification/trade allotment in Mumbai if shortlisted.

📄 Source: Official notification released by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) on 10 June 2026. All details sourced from the official MDL Trade Apprentice 2026 Information Brochure (Advt. No. MDL_ATS/01/2026).