If you have a Diploma in Engineering, a B.Sc., or an ITI certificate and dream of working in India’s high-tech nuclear energy sector, your moment has arrived.
The Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL), a premier Public Sector Enterprise under the Department of Atomic Energy, has officially released its 2026 recruitment notification. Unlike the massive mass-recruitment drives of railways or banks, NPCIL recruitment is niche, specialized, and highly prestigious.
This article details the 114 Vacancies announced for the Tarapur Atomic Power Station (TAPP) in Maharashtra. The application window is already open, and the deadline is fast approaching.
1. The Opportunity: Why NPCIL?
Working at NPCIL is not just another government job; it is a contribution to India’s energy security.
- Prestigious Profile: You will work in nuclear power plants, dealing with cutting-edge technology in power generation.
- Central Govt Status: Though a PSU, the benefits and culture are closely aligned with central government standards.
- Allowances: Apart from the basic pay, employees receive safety allowances, difficult area allowances, and excellent housing in NPCIL townships, which are known for being self-sufficient “mini-cities” with schools and hospitals.
2. Vacancy Breakdown (114 Posts)
The recruitment (Advt. No. TMS/HRM/01/2026) is specific to the Tarapur site. The posts are divided into two main categories: Scientific Assistant (Category-I) and Technician (Category-II).
| Post Name | Category | Total Vacancies |
| Stipendiary Trainee / Technician (Cat-II) | Technical (ITI) | 83 (Highest) |
| Stipendiary Trainee / Scientific Assistant (Cat-I) | Diploma/B.Sc | 12 |
| Scientific Assistant/B (Civil) | Engineering | 02 |
| X-Ray Technician (Technician-C) | Medical Tech | 02 |
| Assistant Grade-1 (HR / F&A / C&MM) | Non-Technical | 15 |
| Total | 114 |
Note: The “Stipendiary Trainee” roles involve a training period (usually 18-24 months) where you are paid a stipend. Upon successful completion, you are absorbed as a permanent employee (Scientific Assistant/B or Technician/B).
3. Eligibility Criteria: Are You Eligible?
The criteria for NPCIL are strict. Ensure you meet the specific age and education requirements as of February 04, 2026.
A. Scientific Assistant / Stipendiary Trainee (Cat-I)
- Education:
- Diploma in Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Electronics, Chemical) with min 60% marks.
- OR
- B.Sc. (Physics/Chemistry/Maths) with min 60% marks.
- Age Limit: 18 – 25 Years.
- Note: Candidates with only a B.E./B.Tech degree (without a Diploma) are generally not eligible for these Diploma-level posts unless specified.
B. Technician / Stipendiary Trainee (Cat-II)
- Education:
- SSC (10th) with minimum 50% marks in Science and Math.
- PLUS
- ITI Certificate (2 years) in relevant trade (Fitter, Electrician, Electronics, Instrumentation, etc.).
- Age Limit: 18 – 24 Years.
C. Scientific Assistant/B (Civil)
- Education: Diploma in Civil Engineering (3 years) with min 60% marks.
- Age Limit: 18 – 30 Years.
Age Relaxation: 3 Years for OBC (NCL), 5 Years for SC/ST, and 10 Years for PwBD.
4. Important Dates
The timeline is tight. Do not wait for the last day.
| Event | Date |
| Application Start Date | January 15, 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply | February 04, 2026 (till 4:00 PM) |
| Exam Date | To be notified (Likely March/April 2026) |
5. Selection Process
The selection depends on the post you apply for.
For Scientific Assistants (Cat-I) & Scientific Assistant/B:
- Written Examination: A computer-based test covering English, General Awareness, and your specific Engineering/Science discipline.
- Personal Interview: Candidates who clear the written test are called for an interview.
- Final selection is often based heavily on the Interview score, with the written test being a screening stage (check notification for specific weightage).
For Technicians (Cat-II):
The process is purely exam-based (3 Stages).
- Stage 1 (Preliminary Test): 50 Questions (Math, Science, General Awareness). Qualifying nature.
- Stage 2 (Advanced Test): 50 Questions from your respective ITI Trade. This decides the merit list.
- Stage 3 (Skill Test): Go/No-Go basis. You must demonstrate practical skills in your trade.
6. Salary and Stipend Structure
- Scientific Assistant (Cat-I):
- Stipend: ₹24,000 (1st Year) -> ₹26,000 (2nd Year).
- After Absorption: Pay Level 6 (Basic Pay ₹35,400). Gross Salary approx ₹55,000+.
- Technician (Cat-II):
- Stipend: ₹10,500 (1st Year) -> ₹12,500 (2nd Year).
- After Absorption: Pay Level 3 (Basic Pay ₹21,700). Gross Salary approx ₹35,000+.
- Scientific Assistant/B (Direct Recruit):
- Direct entry to Level 6 (Basic ₹35,400) without the trainee period.
7. How to Apply
- Portal: Visit
www.npcilcareers.co.in. - Register: Click on “Apply Online” -> “TMS/HRM/01/2026”.
- Fill Details: Enter personal info and educational marks carefully.
- Fee:
- ₹150 for Scientific Assistant posts (General/OBC/EWS).
- ₹100 for Technician/Assistant Grade posts.
- Free for SC/ST/PwBD/Women candidates.
8. Preparation Strategy
- For Technicians: Your ITI Trade Theory is everything. Stage 2 (Advanced Test) determines your selection. Do not waste too much time on heavy GK; focus on your trade basics (NIMI books are best).
- For Scientific Assistants: The written test is usually of moderate difficulty, but the Interview is technical and grueling. Be prepared to answer fundamental questions about your engineering subjects (e.g., “How does a pump work?” or “Laws of Thermodynamics”) on a whiteboard.
Conclusion
With only 114 seats, the competition will be quality-driven rather than quantity-driven. If you meet the age criteria (especially the 24-year limit for Technicians), this is a high-probability opportunity compared to exams with lakhs of applicants. Apply before February 4th!