Rourkela Steel Plant (RSP), SAIL - Trade Apprentice (ITI), Diploma Apprentice, Graduate/Degree Apprentice 2026

Rourkela Steel Plant (RSP), a flagship unit of Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL), is seeking motivated candidates for three distinct apprenticeship tracks. This recruitment is open to Indian citizens aged 18–28 years (with age relaxation for reserved categories) who hold relevant qualifications.

The three categories are:

• Trade Apprentice (ITI): 421 vacancies for candidates with ITI qualifications in respective trades. Monthly stipend: ₹10,560
• Diploma Apprentice: 414 vacancies for candidates with Diploma in Engineering or related fields. Monthly stipend: ₹10,900
• Graduate/Degree Apprentice: 275 vacancies for candidates with a Bachelor's degree in Engineering or equivalent. Monthly stipend: ₹12,300

If you have completed your ITI, Diploma, or Degree program and are looking to gain hands-on industrial experience at India's leading steel manufacturer, this is a structured pathway to skill development and potential permanent employment consideration.

RSP offers competitive monthly stipends during the apprenticeship period, structured by qualification level:

• Trade Apprentice: ₹10,560 per month
• Diploma Apprentice: ₹10,900 per month
• Graduate/Degree Apprentice: ₹12,300 per month

These stipends are provided throughout the apprenticeship duration (typically 12–36 months depending on trade/discipline). Beyond the monetary component, apprentices receive:

• Practical training in world-class steel manufacturing facilities
• Mentorship from experienced engineers and technicians
• Exposure to advanced steel production processes and quality systems
• Potential consideration for permanent employment post-apprenticeship based on performance and organizational requirement
• Skill certificates recognized across the steel and heavy manufacturing sectors

The apprenticeship serves as a launching pad into SAIL's permanent workforce. Candidates who excel during their apprenticeship tenure often transition into junior-level technical roles with enhanced salary packages and full statutory benefits.

The selection methodology for RSP apprenticeships combines merit-based shortlisting and verification procedures:

Stage 1: Application Screening

Submitted applications are reviewed for eligibility against announced criteria: age, qualification, caste certificate (if applicable), and domicile requirements. Only applications meeting all eligibility parameters advance to the next stage.

Stage 2: Merit List Preparation

A merit list is prepared based on educational qualification marks (10+2 marks, Diploma/Degree percentage, and ITI score as applicable). Separate merit lists are generated for General, SC, ST, OBC, and PwD categories.

Stage 3: Document Verification and Medical Test

Shortlisted candidates are called for document verification at RSP, Rourkela. Original certificates, 10th/12th standard marks sheet, ITI/Diploma/Degree certificate, caste certificate (if applicable), PwD certificate (if applicable), must be produced. A medical examination is conducted to ensure fitness for apprenticeship involving industrial operations.

Stage 4: Final Selection and Offer

Post successful document verification and medical clearance, candidates receive a formal offer letter with joining instructions, apprenticeship tenure details, and stipend commencement date.

Important: The exact weightage for marks, cutoff scores, and detailed selection timelines are provided in the official notification. Candidates should refer to the official RSP/SAIL website for stage-by-stage updates.

1. Submitting Incomplete or Incorrect Personal Information
Errors in name spelling, date of birth, or contact details lead to automatic rejection during verification. Ensure details match your original certificates exactly.

2. Missing Caste Certificate Scans
If you belong to SC/ST/OBC category, the caste certificate (issued by competent authority) must be uploaded in the specified format. Absence or invalid scans result in ineligibility for category-based benefits.

3. Applying for Wrong Category
Candidates must apply for the correct apprentice category matching their qualification. A diploma holder cannot apply for Trade Apprentice (ITI) slots; a graduate cannot apply for Diploma Apprentice slots. The system may allow multi-category applications, verify you select the right one.

4. Uploading Low-Quality or Illegible Documents
Poor scans, blurred photographs, or documents with missing corners fail verification. Use a smartphone or scanner to produce clear, legible PDFs (300 DPI minimum).

5. Ignoring PwD/Age Relaxation Documentation
PwD candidates must upload their disability certificate issued by a medical board. Age relaxation is NOT automatic, supporting documents (caste certificate for SC/ST/OBC, disability certificate for PwD) must be present.

6. Missing or Mismatched Educational Certificates
Ensure the highest qualification you claim (ITI/Diploma/Degree) is backed by official certificates. Transcripts alone are insufficient; you need the actual award certificate.

7. Submitting After the Deadline
Online applications close at 23:59 IST on the announced last date. No late submissions are entertained. Apply well before the deadline to avoid server congestion.

Once you receive the offer letter, the next steps are straightforward:

1. Joining Formalities
You will be instructed to report to RSP's Learning & Development Department on the specified joining date with original documents, two copies of passport-sized photographs, and relevant identity proof. A joining checklist is typically provided in the offer letter.

2. Induction and Orientation
Apprentices undergo a structured induction program familiarizing them with RSP's safety protocols, organizational policies, shop-floor procedures, and the apprenticeship training schedule.

3. On-the-Job Training
Training is conducted in collaboration with your assigned department (Production, Rolling, Quality, Maintenance, etc.). You work under the guidance of skilled instructors and senior technicians, learning both theoretical and practical aspects of steel manufacturing.

4. Monthly Stipend Disbursal
Your monthly stipend (₹10,560–₹12,300 depending on category) is credited to your registered bank account by the 5th or 10th of each month.

5. Performance Evaluation
Mid-term and end-term assessments evaluate your technical competency, attendance, safety awareness, and soft skills. High performers are flagged for potential permanent placement consideration.

6. Apprenticeship Completion Certificate
Upon successful completion of the apprenticeship tenure, you receive a nationally recognized completion certificate from RSP/SAIL, enhancing your employability across the steel and allied sectors.

7. Post-Apprenticeship Opportunities
While placement post-apprenticeship is merit and requirement-based (not guaranteed), high performers may be absorbed into junior technical positions with a base salary in the ₹20,000–₹35,000 range plus benefits, depending on the role and grade.

Rourkela Steel Plant, established in 1959, is one of India's premier integrated steel manufacturing units and a cornerstone of SAIL (Steel Authority of India Limited). Located in Odisha, RSP operates with a production capacity exceeding 2.5 million tonnes of steel per annum.

The plant manufactures a diverse range of products, from structural steel and rails to plates and bars, serving infrastructure, defense, and industrial sectors across India. RSP is recognized for:

• Technical Excellence: ISO 9001, 14001, and 18001 certified; continuous investment in R&D and process improvement
• Human Resource Development: Structured training programs, skill upgradation initiatives, and career progression pathways for all employee categories
• Safety and Environment: Rigorous occupational health and safety protocols; environmental conservation measures exceeding regulatory standards
• Social Responsibility: Community engagement, skill development programs, and local economic contribution

The Learning & Development Department, which oversees this apprenticeship recruitment, is committed to nurturing the next generation of steel industry professionals. Apprentices here work with cutting-edge equipment and experienced mentors, positioning themselves as future leaders in manufacturing.

Trade Apprentice (ITI) – 421 Vacancies

Candidates with ITI qualifications in trades such as Fitter, Turner, Electrician, Welder, Machinist, and other relevant disciplines are placed in shop-floor departments. You work on machine operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting under the supervision of experienced technicians. Duration: typically 12–18 months. Monthly stipend: ₹10,560.

Diploma Apprentice – 414 Vacancies

Candidates holding Diplomas in Mechanical, Electrical, Civil, Metallurgy, or Production Engineering are posted to technical departments where they support process optimization, quality control, and maintenance planning. You gain exposure to planning, execution, and documentation of technical activities. Duration: typically 18–24 months. Monthly stipend: ₹10,900.

Graduate/Degree Apprentice – 275 Vacancies

Bachelor's degree holders in Engineering (all disciplines) or equivalent qualifications are assigned to departments handling strategic technical functions, project engineering, or quality assurance. You contribute to process improvements, data analysis, and process standardization alongside professional engineers. Duration: typically 24–36 months. Monthly stipend: ₹12,300.

Core Responsibilities Across All Categories:

• Execute assigned technical tasks under supervisor guidance
• Maintain detailed records of daily activities and observations
• Adhere to safety, quality, and environmental protocols
• Participate in knowledge-sharing and upskilling sessions
• Support troubleshooting and continuous improvement initiatives
• Demonstrate reliability, punctuality, and professional conduct

The role is not desk-based; it involves active shop-floor or technical facility engagement, requiring comfort with industrial noise, heat, and physical activity. All apprentices must pass a medical fitness test ensuring they can safely perform assigned duties.