⛏️ MCL Recruitment 2026
📢 Mega Drive: Apply Online for 667 Junior Overman, Mining Sirdar & Surveyor Posts
Mahanadi Coalfields Limited (A Subsidiary of Coal India Limited) | Govt. of India
🌟 The Ultimate Opportunity in the Coal Sector
Mahanadi Coalfields Limited (MCL), one of the most profitable and leading subsidiaries of Coal India Limited (CIL) under the Ministry of Coal, Government of India, has released a blockbuster recruitment notification for the year 2026. The official notification (Ref. No.: MCL/HQ/Recruitment/Statutory/2026/120) published on 21st February 2026 announces the filling of 667 highly sought-after technical and supervisory vacancies.
The recruitment drive predominantly targets crucial roles in the mining operations, specifically Junior Overman, Mining Sirdar, and Surveyor, alongside backlog vacancies for Translator (OL) and Technician (Pathology). Operating from its headquarters in Sambalpur, Odisha, MCL is instrumental in driving the nation’s energy security. Working at MCL not only offers an exceptionally lucrative pay scale under the National Coal Wage Agreement (NCWA-XI) but also promises unmatched career stability, incredible fringe benefits, and a highly respectable societal status.
Eligible candidates possessing the required Mining degrees, diplomas, and valid statutory DGMS certificates can submit their online applications via the official MCL web portal at mahanadicoal.in starting from 16th March 2026 up to 06th April 2026. Dive into the most exhaustive, detailed, and meticulously crafted guide below to understand every single aspect of this recruitment—from detailed category-wise vacancy breakdowns to the exact CBT syllabus, salary slips, preparation strategies, and direct application links! 👇
🚀 MCL Recruitment 2026: Executive Overview
| 🏢 Recruiting Organization | Mahanadi Coalfields Limited (MCL) |
| 📄 Official Notification No. | MCL/HQ/Recruitment/Statutory/2026/120 |
| 💼 Name of the Posts | Junior Overman, Mining Sirdar, Surveyor, Translator, Technician |
| 🔢 Total Vacancies | 667 Posts |
| 📋 Post Category | Group B & C (T&S Grade) |
| 💰 Starting Basic Pay | ₹ 41,966/- to ₹ 51,103/- Per Month (Plus Allowances) |
| 📍 Job Location | MCL Mines / Coalfields (Odisha) |
| 🌐 Official Website | mahanadicoal.in |
📅 Crucial Dates & Timeline
Missing a deadline is the easiest way to lose an opportunity. Bookmark these dates and set your reminders immediately!
| Recruitment Event | Important Date / Time |
|---|---|
| Official Notification Release Date | 21st February 2026 |
| Online Application Start Date | 16th March 2026 (10:00 AM) |
| Last Date to Submit Application | 06th April 2026 (11:50 PM) |
| Last Date for Fee Payment | 06th April 2026 (11:50 PM) |
| Computer Based Test (CBT) Date | To be announced soon |
| Admit Card Release Date | 10-14 days prior to CBT |
📊 Exhaustive Vacancy Matrix (Category-Wise)
The 667 vacancies are strategically divided across various technical, supervisory, and backlog posts. The Government of India’s reservation policy is strictly adhered to, providing appropriate quotas for UR, EWS, OBC (NCL), SC, ST, and PwBD candidates. Below is the crystal-clear breakdown:
1️⃣ Junior Overman, T&S Gr-C (Total: 192 Posts)
| UR (Gen) | EWS | OBC (NCL) | SC | ST | Grand Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 77 | 18 | 22 | 29 | 46 | 192 |
2️⃣ Mining Sirdar, T&S Gr-C (Total: 448 Posts)
| UR (Gen) | EWS | OBC (NCL) | SC | ST | Grand Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 176 | 43 | 64 | 77 | 88 | 448 |
3️⃣ Surveyor, T&S Gr-B (Total: 24 Posts)
| UR (Gen) | EWS | OBC (NCL) | SC | ST | Grand Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10 | 8 | 1 | 1 | 4 | 24 |
4️⃣ Backlog & PwBD Reserved Posts (Total: 03 Posts)
Note: A total of 03 vacancies are reserved horizontally for Persons with Benchmark Disabilities (PwBD) specifically for Translator and Technician posts. PwBD reservation is NOT applicable to Jr. Overman, Mining Sirdar & Surveyor roles due to the hazardous nature of mining tasks.
| Post Name | SC | ST | OBC (NCL) | PwBD (Horizontal) | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Translator (OL) Clerical Gr. III | — | — | 1 | 1 | 1 |
| Technician (Pathology) T&S Gr-C | 1 | 1 | — | 2 | 2 |
💰 Extravagant Salary, Pay Scale & Perks
A career in Coal India Ltd (and its subsidiary MCL) is highly coveted due to the incredible remuneration packages structured under the National Coal Wage Agreement (NCWA-XI). The table below illustrates the robust basic pay offered per month:
| Name of the Post & Grade | Basic Pay Scale (Per Month) |
|---|---|
| Junior Overman, T&S Gr-C | ₹ 47,330.25 /- |
| Mining Sirdar, T&S Gr-C | ₹ 47,330.25 /- |
| Technician (Pathology) Tr. T&S Gr-C | ₹ 47,330.25 /- |
| Surveyor, T&S Gr-B | ₹ 51,103.12 /- |
| Translator (Tr.) OL Clerical Gr. III | ₹ 41,966.51 /- |
🎁 Extravagant Allowances & Benefits:
Apart from the whopping Basic Pay mentioned above, an employee at MCL enjoys an array of allowances that drastically inflate the gross salary:
- Dearness Allowance (DA): Adjusted quarterly to beat inflation.
- House Rent Allowance (HRA): Paid if company accommodation is not provided.
- Underground Allowance: Special risk allowance for candidates working in underground mines.
- Attendance Bonus & Special Allowances: Performance and attendance-linked bonuses.
- Medical Facilities: 100% free, top-tier medical treatment for the employee and their dependents at company hospitals and empaneled super-specialty hospitals.
- Leave Travel Concession (LTC) & Leave Encashment.
- Post-Retirement: CMPF (Coal Mines Provident Fund), Gratuity, and post-retirement Medicare.
🎓 Comprehensive Eligibility & Statutory Certificates Required
⚠️ CRITICAL: Candidates MUST possess the required statutory certificates issued by the Directorate General of Mines Safety (DGMS) valid as on the cut-off date (06/Apr/2026).
👷 1. Junior Overman
- Education: Diploma in Mining Engineering of 3 years duration OR Degree in Mining Engineering from recognized university.
- Mandatory Statutory Certificates:
- Valid Overman Competency Certificate (Un-Restricted) issued by DGMS.
- Valid First Aid Certificate.
- Valid Gas Testing Certificate.
- Age Limit: 18 to 30 Years (for UR/EWS).
⛏️ 2. Mining Sirdar
- Education: Matriculation (10th) or equivalent examination from a recognized Board. Alternatively, Diploma/Degree in Mining Engineering.
- Mandatory Statutory Certificates:
- Valid Mining Sirdarship Certificate of Competency (Un-Restricted) issued by DGMS.
- Valid First Aid Certificate.
- Valid Gas Testing Certificate.
- Age Limit: 18 to 30 Years (for UR/EWS).
📐 3. Surveyor
- Education: Matriculation (10th) / 10+2 OR Diploma/Degree in Mining / Mine Surveying Engineering.
- Mandatory Statutory Certificates:
- Valid Survey Certificate of Competency (Un-Restricted) issued by DGMS under CMR 2017.
- Age Limit: 18 to 30 Years (for UR/EWS).
📚 4. Translator & Technician
- Translator (Official Language): B.A. or equivalent degree with Hindi and English as main subjects. Desirable: Govt. recognized Diploma in Hindi Translation.
- Technician (Pathology): Diploma in Pathology from an Institute recognized by the Govt.
- Age Limit: 18 to 30 Years (for UR/EWS).
👨🦳 Age Relaxation Rules (Upper Age Limit)
While the general age limit is 18 to 30 years (calculating as on 06/April/2026), immense relaxations are provided to reserved categories:
- OBC (Non-Creamy Layer): 3 Years relaxation (Up to 33 Years).
- SC / ST Category: 5 Years relaxation (Up to 35 Years).
- PwBD Candidates: 10 Years (General), 13 Years (OBC), 15 Years (SC/ST) *Only applicable for Translator & Tech posts.
- Ex-Servicemen: As per Government of India directives.
- Departmental Candidates (CIL/Subsidiaries): No upper age limit. However, the absolute maximum age to apply should not exceed 56 years.
💸 Application Fee Structure
The application fee must be paid strictly via online mode (Net Banking, Debit Card, Credit Card, UPI) through the integrated payment gateway on the MCL recruitment portal.
| Candidate Category | Fee Components | Total Fee Payable |
|---|---|---|
| General (UR) / OBC / EWS | ₹ 1000/- (Base) + ₹ 180/- (18% GST) | ₹ 1180/- |
| SC / ST / PwBD / ESM / Female Candidates | Fully Exempted | ₹ 0/- (Nil) |
| Departmental Employees (CIL & Subsidiaries) | Fully Exempted | ₹ 0/- (Nil) |
Note: The fee once paid will not be refunded under any circumstances. Ensure your eligibility before initiating the payment.
⚔️ Absolute Selection Process & CBT Exam Pattern
The selection methodology for MCL 2026 is highly transparent and completely merit-based. There will be NO Personal Interview for these posts! Selection solely depends on your performance in the Computer Based Test (CBT).
📚 Computer Based Test (CBT) Pattern & Syllabus
The CBT will consist of objective-type multiple-choice questions (MCQs) available in bilingual format (English and Hindi). The absolute game-changer here is that there is NO NEGATIVE MARKING! Candidates must attempt all 100 questions.
| Section | Syllabus Focus Area | No. of Questions | Max Marks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Section A | General Awareness, Current Affairs, Mental Ability & General Aptitude | 20 | 20 Marks |
| Section B | Professional / Technical Knowledge (Subject-specific like Mining Engg, Surveying, etc.) | 80 | 80 Marks |
| TOTAL | 100 Qs | 100 Marks | |
🎯 Minimum Qualifying Marks
- General (UR) / EWS: 45 Marks (45%)
- OBC (Non-Creamy Layer): 35 Marks (35%)
- SC / ST / PwBD: 40 Marks (40%)
📂 Document Verification (1:3 Ratio)
Candidates who pass the CBT will be shortlisted in the ratio of 1:3 (3 candidates for every 1 vacancy) based on merit. They will be called to Sambalpur for strict verification of original documents and statutory certificates.
🧠 Master Strategy to Crack MCL Recruitment 2026
With 667 vacancies and no interview phase, the competition will be fierce at the CBT level. Employ these strategies to secure your spot:
- Dominate the Technical Section (80 Marks): 80% of the paper is your core subject. For Junior Overman and Mining Sirdar, study the Coal Mines Regulations (CMR) 2017, Mine Ventilation, Explosives, and Safety Protocols inside out.
- Don’t Ignore Section A (20 Marks): General Awareness and Aptitude are rank deciders. Brush up on basic math, reasoning, and recent national current affairs (especially related to the energy and coal sector).
- Leverage Zero Negative Marking: Attempt all 100 questions. Use elimination techniques for questions you are unsure about, but never leave an OMR bubble blank.
- Mock Tests: Practice time management by taking online mock tests modeled on previous Coal India (CIL, NCL, WCL, MCL) exam papers.
🖥️ How to Apply Online? A Foolproof Guide
🚨 WARNING: The application link will be activated strictly at 10:00 AM on 16th March 2026. Do not wait for the last day (06th April) to avoid server crashes.
- Step 1: Visit the official portal of Mahanadi Coalfields Limited at www.mahanadicoal.in.
- Step 2: On the homepage, navigate to the “Careers” -> “Recruitment” section.
- Step 3: Click on the link that reads “Online Application for the Post of Junior Overman, Mining Sirdar, Surveyor under Advt 120”.
- Step 4: Registration: Click on ‘New Registration’. Fill in your basic details (Name, Mobile No, Email ID) to generate your Login ID and Password.
- Step 5: Fill Application: Log in with the credentials and fill in your Personal Details, Qualification details, and crucial Statutory Certificate details (DGMS info).
- Step 6: Upload Documents: Upload high-quality scanned copies of your passport-size photograph, signature, and necessary certificates in PDF/JPEG format as prescribed.
- Step 7: Payment of Fee: General, EWS, and OBC candidates must pay the ₹1180 fee via the integrated payment gateway (BillDesk).
- Step 8: Final Submission: Verify all details through the ‘Preview’ button. Click ‘Submit’ and immediately print out the final application form and fee receipt for future reference at the Document Verification stage.
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❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. What is the total number of vacancies announced in MCL Recruitment 2026?
A colossal total of 667 vacancies have been announced. This includes 192 for Junior Overman, 448 for Mining Sirdar, 24 for Surveyor, and 3 backlog posts.
Q2. Is there any interview conducted for the Mining Sirdar / Junior Overman posts?
No! The selection process is strictly based on the performance in the 100-mark Computer Based Test (CBT). There is absolutely no personal interview.
Q3. Are final year Diploma/Degree students eligible to apply?
No, applicants must possess the requisite educational qualifications as well as valid statutory certificates (like Overman/Sirdar DGMS certificate, First Aid, Gas Testing) strictly on or before 06th April 2026.
Q4. Does the CBT exam have negative marking?
No. There is no negative marking in the CBT. Candidates are advised to attempt all 100 questions (20 General + 80 Technical) to maximize their scores.
Q5. What is the application fee for MCL 2026?
General, OBC, and EWS candidates have to pay an online fee of ₹ 1180/- (including GST). SC, ST, PwBD, Ex-Servicemen, Female candidates, and CIL departmental employees are completely exempted from paying the fee.
Q6. What is the basic pay scale for the Junior Overman post?
Under the NCWA-XI, a Junior Overman (T&S Gr-C) receives an impressive basic pay of ₹ 47,330.25/- per month, along with extensive allowances like DA, HRA, Medical, and underground allowances.
Disclaimer: All the information provided above is derived meticulously from the official Mahanadi Coalfields Limited (MCL) Vacancy Advertisement (120). Candidates are strongly urged to verify all conditions from the official portal (mahanadicoal.in) before filling the application and making the fee payment.
Vinit Rajput is the Founder of GovtRank.com. He is an education news analyst from Khatauli, Muzaffarnagar with 5+ years of experience in tracking government job notifications. He specializes in verifying official circulars and simplifying them for students.