SMP Kolkata Trainee Pilot Recruitment 2026

Introduction

Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port, Kolkata has announced a recruitment drive for 18 Trainee Pilot positions within its Marine Departments at the Kolkata Dock System and Haldia Dock Complex. This is a direct recruitment opportunity for eligible Indian Nationals. The application process is offline, and candidates must ensure they meet all the specified eligibility criteria, including educational qualifications and age limits, as of September 1, 2026. The last date to submit applications is October 26, 2026. Detailed information regarding post-wise vacancies, pay scales, and selection procedures is available in the official notification. Applicants are strongly advised to read the official notification thoroughly before applying, as it contains the definitive terms and conditions for this recruitment. The Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port Authority reserves the right to cancel this recruitment exercise at any stage.

Recruitment Overview

Important Dates

Vacancy Details

A total of 18 vacancies are available for the post of Trainee Pilot. The distribution of vacancies across different categories for the Kolkata Dock System (KDS) and Haldia Dock Complex (HDC) is as follows:

Note: The post is not identified as suitable for Persons with Benchmark Disabilities (PwBD) Category.

Educational Qualifications and Eligibility

Candidates must possess the following educational and professional qualifications to be eligible for the Trainee Pilot post. The crucial date for determining eligibility is September 1, 2026.

• For Trainee Pilot (KDS): Master (FG)/Dredge Master Grade-I
• For Trainee Pilot (HDC): First Mate (FG)/ Dredge Master Grade-II
• Other Posts: 2nd Mate (FG)/ Dredge Mate Grade I
• Other Posts: B.Sc. Nautical Science

Important Note: If a candidate from SC, ST, or OBC category applies under the UR category, they will not be eligible for age relaxation.

Age Limit and Relaxation

The age limit for applicants is determined as of September 1, 2026. Specific age limits apply based on the qualification possessed:

• Not exceeding 25 years for candidates possessing B.Sc. Nautical Science.
• Not exceeding 30 years for candidates possessing Second Mate (FG)/Dredge Mate Grade-I.
• Not exceeding 35 years for candidates possessing First Mate (FG)/Dredge Master Gr. II.
• Not exceeding 40 years for candidates possessing Master (FG)/Dredge Master Gr. I certificate.

Age relaxation will be provided as follows:

• Other Backward Classes (Non-creamy layer): 3 years
• Scheduled Castes/Scheduled Tribes: 5 years
• Existing Employees of the Board of any Major Port of India: Upto 55 years of age

Candidates seeking age relaxation must submit necessary certificates and produce originals for verification.

Application Fee

The official notification does not specify any application fee for this recruitment.

Salary and Pay Scale

Selected candidates will receive a salary based on their qualifications and the post they are appointed to:

• Trainee Pilot (KDS): Will start in the pay scale of Rs. 70,000- 2,00,000/-
• Trainee Pilot (HDC): Will start in the pay scale of Rs. 60,000- 1,80,000/-
• For 2nd Mate (FG)/ Dredge Mate Grade I: Will start at Rs. 50,000/-
• For B.Sc. Nautical Science: Will start at Rs. 40,000/-

Selection Process

The selection of candidates will be based solely on an interview. The decision will be made based on the qualifications and relevant experience of the applicants. Appointment as a Trainee Pilot is also subject to being found medically fit as per SMPA requirements.

Application Procedure

Interested and eligible candidates must apply offline. The application process involves the following steps:

1. Download the application proforma from the official notification.
2. Fill in the application form accurately with all required details.
3. Affix one recent colour passport-size photograph.
4. Attach self-certified photocopies of relevant certificates and testimonials, including caste, educational and professional qualifications, age proof, and CDC/COC.
5. Send the application in a sealed envelope, superscribing it as 'Application for the post of Trainee Pilot at Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port, Kolkata (erstwhile Kolkata Port Trust)'.
6. The application should be addressed to: The Director, Marine Department, Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port, Kolkata, at 15 Strand Road, Kolkata 700001.

Applications received after the last date, incomplete, or unsigned will not be considered.

Required Documents

Candidates must enclose the following documents with their application:

• One recent colour passport-size photograph.
• Self-certified photocopies of relevant certificates and testimonials.
• Self-attested photocopies of caste certificate (if applicable).
• Self-attested photocopies of educational and professional qualification certificates.
• Self-attested photocopy of age proof certificate.
• Self-attested photocopies of CDC/COC (Continuous Discharge Certificate/Certificate of Competency).

Important Instructions and Common Mistakes

Candidates are urged to carefully review the official notification before applying. Key instructions include:

• Ensure all particulars furnished in the application are correct and that you meet all eligibility criteria as of the specified dates.
• Providing incorrect or false information, or suppressing material facts, can lead to disqualification at any stage and may result in termination of service if discovered later.
• Only apply for the category and post for which you are eligible. No changes will be entertained after submission.
• Selected candidates will be required to sign a bond to serve the Port for at least five years after qualifying as a Pilot.
• The Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port, Kolkata reserves the right to cancel the recruitment process at any stage without assigning any reason.

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

• Submitting incomplete or unsigned applications.
• Missing the application deadline.
• Not attaching all required self-attested photocopies of documents.
• Failing to superscribe the envelope correctly.

Official Notification and Application Links

For detailed information and to download the application proforma, please refer to the official sources:

• Official Notification PDF: Download Notification
• Official Website: Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port, Kolkata

Relevant FAQs

Q1: What is the last date to apply for the Trainee Pilot post?
A1: The last date for receipt of applications is October 26, 2026.

Q2: Is there an application fee for this recruitment?
A2: The official notification does not mention any application fee.

Q3: What is the selection process?
A3: Selection will be made through an interview only.

Q4: What is the crucial date for determining eligibility?
A4: The crucial date for determining age, qualification, and experience is September 1, 2026.