Apprenticeship for Graduate and Technician Apprentices

Introduction

The Advanced Centre for Energetic Materials (ACEM), located in Nasik, is a premier research and development facility under the umbrella of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). DRDO plays a pivotal role in India's national security by developing cutting-edge technologies, weapons systems, and advanced materials to ensure the nation's defense. The ACEM facility specifically focuses on high-energy materials, which are critical for various defense applications. For young graduates and diploma holders, an apprenticeship at such a prestigious institution is not just a job; it is a gateway into the world of high-end research, national security, and advanced engineering.

In the current academic climate, many students seek practical exposure to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and industrial application. The recruitment for 41 positions as Graduate and Technician Apprentices for the year 2026-27 offers a golden opportunity for fresh graduates from various technical and scientific backgrounds. Whether you are an engineer in Mechanical, Chemical, or Electronics, or a science graduate in Physics or Chemistry, this apprenticeship provides a platform to work on sophisticated projects under the guidance of expert scientists and engineers. The program is designed to provide hands-on experience, understand laboratory protocols, and familiarize candidates with the rigorous standards required in defense research. This blog post serves as a comprehensive guide for all aspirants looking to kickstart their careers in the defense sector through ACEM Nasik.

Highlights / Quick Overview

Application Fee

| Free (No fee required) | | Location | Nasik, Maharashtra |

Post-wise Vacancy Details

The recruitment is divided into two primary categories based on the educational qualification of the candidates. Below are the specific vacancy counts for each role:

Eligibility Criteria

Candidates must meet the following eligibility criteria to be considered for the apprenticeship positions at ACEM, Nasik.

Educational Qualification

The requirements vary based on the type of apprenticeship applied for:

• For Graduate Apprentice: Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s Degree (B.E./B.Tech) in any of the following fields:
  • Chemical Engineering
  • Mechanical Engineering
  • Aerospace Engineering
  • Computer Science
  • Electrical Engineering
  • Electronics & Telecommunication Engineering
• Additionally, candidates with a B.Sc. in Chemistry or Physics are eligible for the Graduate Apprentice role.
• Candidates with B.Com and BLIS degrees are also eligible to apply under specific categories.

For Technician Apprentice: Candidates must possess a Diploma in any of the following disciplines:

• Mechanical Engineering
• Chemical Engineering
• Electrical Engineering
• Electronics Engineering
• Computer Science

Age Limit

This apprenticeship program is specifically designed for fresh graduates. The eligible candidates must be "Fresh Pass-outs" of the years 2024, 2025, or 2026. This means that if you have already been working in a professional capacity or have completed your degree before 2024, you may not be eligible as per the "fresh pass-out" criteria.

Nationality

The applicant must be a citizen of India. Preference is often given to local candidates who can effectively communicate and adapt to the work culture in Nasik, though this depends on the specific norms of the DRDO facility.

Important Dates

Application Fee

The apprenticeship program at ACEM, a DRDO facility, is intended to provide training and exposure to students. Therefore, there is no administrative fee for applying.

Selection Process

The selection process for the ACEM apprenticeship is designed to filter the most suitable candidates based on their technical knowledge and academic background. The following stages are typically involved:

1. Screening of Applications: Initial verification of eligibility, including degree validity and "fresh pass-out" status.
2. Merit List: Candidates whose applications meet all criteria will be shortlisted based on their academic percentage (merit) in their respective degrees or diplomas.
3. Technical Interview (If applicable): Shortlisted candidates may be called for a technical interview to assess their understanding of core concepts related to their field (e.g., Thermodynamics for Mechanical, Circuit Theory for Electronics).
4. Final Selection: The final list of apprentices is prepared based on the combined marks of merit and interview performance.

Salary / Pay Scale

The stipend provided to the apprentices is as follows:

• Graduate Apprentice: Rs. 12,300/- per month.
• Technician Apprentice: Rs. 10,900/- per month.

Note: These amounts are stipend figures for the duration of the apprenticeship period as defined by the National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS) or internal DRDO guidelines.

How to Apply Step by Step

To apply for the Apprentice positions at ACEM, Nasik, follow these detailed steps carefully to ensure your application is processed correctly:

1. Visit Official Website: Go to the official DRDO website or the specific link provided in the notification.
2. Read Notification: Carefully read the full advertisement (Ref No: ACEM/HRD/APPRENTICESHIP/2026-27) to ensure you meet all eligibility criteria.
3. Prepare Documents: Gather your educational certificates (Degree/Diploma), Identity Proof (Aadhar Card/PAN), and a recent passport-sized photograph.
4. Create Digital Copies: Scan all the aforementioned documents clearly. Ensure that the scans are high-quality and legible.
5. Merge into Single PDF: Combine your application form, photo, signature, and all scanned certificates into one single PDF file. This is a mandatory requirement for email submission.
6. Prepare Email Content: Draft a professional email. Include your name, the post you are applying for (Graduate or Technician), and your contact details in the body of the email.
7. Attach PDF File: Attach the consolidated PDF file to the email. Ensure the file size is within the limits usually allowed by government servers (typically under 5MB).
8. Send Email: Send the application to apprentice.acem@gov.in before the deadline of 26/07/2026.
9. Follow-up: Keep a record of your sent email and wait for a confirmation or notification regarding the selection process via email or post.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is ACEM?
ACEM stands for Advanced Centre for Energetic Materials, a research facility under DRDO located in Nasik.

2. Is there any age limit for the apprenticeship?
While there isn't a specific age number mentioned, candidates must be fresh pass-outs of the years 2024, 2025, or 2026.

3. Can a B.Sc. graduate apply for the Graduate Apprentice post?
Yes, students with a B.Sc. in Chemistry or Physics are eligible to apply for the Graduate Apprentice positions.

4. Is there an application fee for this role?
No, the application process is completely free of any fees.

5. What is the stipend for a Technician Apprentice?
The monthly stipend for a Technician Apprentice is Rs. 10,900/-.

6. Can students with a Diploma apply?
Yes, candidates with a Diploma in Mechanical, Chemical, Electrical, Electronics, or Computer Science can apply for the Technician Apprentice post.

7. What is the total number of vacancies?
There are a total of 41 vacancies (30 Graduate and 11 Technician).

8. Where is the job location?
The apprenticeship will take place at the ACEM facility in Nasik, Maharashtra.

9. How should I submit my application?
Applications must be sent via email to apprentice.acem@gov.in with all documents merged into a single PDF file.

10. What is the last date to apply?
The final date to submit your application is 26/07/2026.

Conclusion

Securing an apprenticeship at a DRDO facility like ACEM, Nasik, is a prestigious opportunity for any aspiring engineer or science graduate. It offers unparalleled exposure to high-tech research environments and the chance to work on projects that contribute directly to national defense. The selection process focuses on merit and technical competence, making it ideal for fresh graduates who are eager to start their professional journey in a disciplined and advanced environment. Candidates are advised to prepare their documents diligently, ensure they meet the "fresh pass-out" criteria, and submit their applications well before the deadline of July 26, 2026. If you have the passion to work in defense research and want to gain practical experience in your field of study, this is an opportunity you should not miss. Apply now and take the first step toward a rewarding career in India's premier defense research organization.