Kochi : Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL), a Government of India Miniratna Category-I public sector enterprise, has invited online applications for 40 Apprentice Rigger positions under its two-year Apprenticeship Training Scheme (ATS) for 2026. The recruitment is being conducted under the provisions of the Apprentices Act, 1961.
According to the official notification issued by CSL, the vacancies are distributed across multiple reservation categories, including 16 seats for unreserved candidates, 13 for Other Backward Classes (OBC), 7 for Scheduled Castes (SC), and 4 for Economically Weaker Sections (EWS).
Educational Qualification and Age Criteria
Candidates applying for the apprenticeship programme must have passed Class VIII (8th standard) from a recognized institution. CSL has specifically stated that applicants possessing diploma, graduate, or higher educational qualifications will not be eligible for the programme.
Applicants must be between 18 and 23 years of age as of May 30, 2026. Age relaxation benefits will be applicable according to government norms, including a relaxation of three years for OBC candidates and five years for SC/ST applicants.
Two-Year Training Programme With Monthly Stipend
The apprenticeship training will be conducted over a period of two years. Selected apprentices will receive a monthly stipend as per the following structure:
- ₹11,000 per month during the first year
- ₹12,000 per month during the second year
CSL stated that apprentices who successfully complete the programme may be considered for future contract employment opportunities depending on organizational requirements, individual performance, and vacancy availability.
Selection Process Based on Physical Test
The recruitment process will primarily consist of document verification followed by a physical test carrying 100 marks. However, CSL noted that a preliminary screening test may be conducted if the number of applications received is significantly high.
The minimum qualifying marks prescribed for the physical test are:
- 50 marks for General and EWS candidates
- 45 marks for OBC candidates
- 40 marks for SC candidates
Final merit will be prepared based on physical test performance. In the event of a tie in scores, preference will be given based on age criteria.
Online Application Process
Online registration for the apprenticeship programme began on May 6, 2026, and will remain open until May 30, 2026, through the official CSL recruitment portal. Applications submitted through offline or any other mode will not be accepted.
Candidates are required to upload supporting documents including proof of age, educational certificates, and category certificates wherever applicable.
CSL has clarified that no application fee is being charged for the recruitment process.
Important Conditions
The shipyard emphasized that the apprenticeship programme does not guarantee permanent employment after completion of training. All selected candidates will also be required to meet prescribed medical fitness standards before final engagement.
The organization further reserved the right to modify, restrict, postpone, or cancel the recruitment process at any stage depending on administrative or operational requirements.
The latest recruitment drive is expected to provide skill development and industrial training opportunities to young candidates seeking entry-level experience in India’s shipbuilding and maritime sector.
