Hindustan Copper Limited (HCL) has released the recruitment notification for 171 Trade Apprentice positions across 19 trades at its Malanjkhand Copper Project (MCP) in Balaghat, Madhya Pradesh. The online application window is open from 5 November 2026 to 24 November 2026. Candidates aged 18–25 years who have completed 10th standard (with or without ITI, depending on the trade) are eligible to apply.
Overview
This recruitment drive offers a structured apprenticeship programme combining hands-on training with theoretical knowledge in mining, mechanical, electrical, civil, and IT-related trades. The training period ranges from 1 to 3 years depending on the selected trade. Selection will be merit-based, considering Class 10 marks (70% weightage) and ITI marks (30% weightage), followed by certificate verification and medical fitness assessment. Applicants must register on both the HCL careers portal and the National Apprenticeship Portal (apprenticeshipindia.gov.in) as part of a mandatory two-step registration process.
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Notification Released | 3 November 2026 |
| Online Application Start | 5 November 2026 at 11:00 AM |
| Last Date to Apply | 24 November 2026 |
| Age & Qualification Cut-off Date | 1 November 2026 |
| Shortlisted Candidates List | 8 December 2026 |
| Document Verification | To be announced |
| Training Commencement | To be announced |
Application Fee
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Application Fee | Not specified in the official notification |
Candidates must check the official notification PDF or HCL website for confirmation before submitting the application.
Vacancy Details
Total Positions: 171 across 19 trades
| S. No. | Trade Name | Seats | Training Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Mate Mines (Fresher) | 4 | 3 Years |
| 2 | Shotfirer / Blaster (Mines) | 13 | 2 Years |
| 3 | Driver-cum-Mechanic (LMV) | 6 | 1 Year 3 Months |
| 4 | Mechanic Diesel | 10 | 1 Year |
| 5 | Fitter | 16 | 1 Year |
| 6 | Turner / Machinist | 16 | 1 Year |
| 7 | Welder (Gas & Electric) | 16 | 1 Year |
| 8 | Electrician | 36 | 1 Year |
| 9 | Draughtsman Civil | 2 | 1 Year |
| 10 | Draughtsman Mechanical | 3 | 1 Year |
| 11 | Computer Assistant (COPA) | 20 | 1 Year |
| 12 | Surveyor | 3 | 1 Year |
| 13 | AC & Refrigeration Mechanic | 2 | 1 Year |
| 14 | Mason (Building Constructor) | 2 | 1 Year |
| 15 | Carpenter | 3 | 1 Year |
| 16 | Plumber | 3 | 1 Year |
| 17 | Horticulture Assistant | 2 | 1 Year |
| 18 | Instrument Mechanic | 10 | 1 Year |
| 19 | Solar Technician (Electrician) | 4 | 1 Year |
| Total | 171 | – | |
Category-wise Reservation:
| Category | Seats |
|---|---|
| Unreserved (UR) | 71 |
| Other Backward Classes (OBC) | 46 |
| Scheduled Caste (SC) | 25 |
| Economically Weaker Section (EWS) | 17 |
| Scheduled Tribe (ST) | 12 |
| Total | 171 |
Eligibility
Educational Qualification:
- Mate Mines (Fresher), Shotfirer/Blaster (Mines), Driver-cum-Mechanic (LMV): 10th pass (ITI not required)
- All other 16 trades: 10th pass + relevant ITI certificate
Age Limit:
- Minimum age: 18 years
- Maximum age: 25 years
- Age calculated as on 1 November 2026
- SC/ST candidates: Age relaxation of 5 years (up to 30 years)
- OBC candidates: Age relaxation of 3 years (up to 28 years)
- Other relaxations applicable as per government guidelines
How to Apply
- Visit the HCL Careers portal on or after 5 November 2026.
- Register on the National Apprenticeship Portal as a mandatory first step.
- Complete the two-step online registration process with all required personal, educational, and contact details.
- Upload documents in the specified formats: photograph (JPG, less than 50 KB), signature (JPG, less than 50 KB), and affidavit where applicable (PDF, less than 1 MB).
- Ensure your age and qualifications meet the criteria as of 1 November 2026.
- Review all information for accuracy and submit before 24 November 2026.
- Save your application reference number for future correspondence.
Salary
Candidates selected as trade apprentices will receive a monthly stipend as admissible under applicable government rules. The exact monthly amount is not specified in the recruitment notification. See the official notification for details. Training location is at Malanjkhand Copper Project, Balaghat, Madhya Pradesh. Note: Permanent employment is not guaranteed after completion of the apprenticeship programme.
Important Links
- Apply Online – HCL Careers Portal
- National Apprenticeship Portal Registration
- Official Notification PDF
- Check Shortlisted Candidates List
- HCL Official Website
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the maximum age limit, and are there any relaxations?
A: The maximum age is 25 years as on 1 November 2026. SC/ST candidates are eligible for 5 years relaxation (up to 30 years), OBC candidates for 3 years (up to 28 years), and other relaxations apply as per government guidelines.
Q: Do I need ITI for all trades?
A: No. For Mate Mines, Shotfirer/Blaster, and Driver-cum-Mechanic trades, 10th pass alone is sufficient. For the remaining 16 trades, ITI in the relevant trade is mandatory.
Q: How is merit determined?
A: Merit is calculated based on Class 10 marks (70% weightage) and ITI marks (30% weightage). The final merit score is then verified against certificates and medical fitness.
Q: When will the results/shortlist be announced?
A: The shortlisted candidates list is scheduled for 8 December 2026. Document verification and training commencement dates will be announced separately.
Q: Is there a job guarantee after apprenticeship?
A: No, there is no permanent employment guarantee. This is a skill-based apprenticeship training programme.
Q: What documents do I need to upload?
A: Photograph (JPG, <50 KB), signature (JPG, <50 KB), and affidavit where applicable (PDF, <1 MB).
Disclaimer: Candidates must verify all details from the official HCL website and notification PDF before submitting their application.