Customs Marine Wing Recruitment 2025: Apply for 19 Seaman, Greaser, and Tradesman Posts
Direct Entry for 10th Pass and ITI Candidates in the Office of the Commissioner of Customs (Preventive), Cochin
The Office of the Commissioner of Customs (Preventive), Cochin, functioning under the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC), Ministry of Finance, has officially released its recruitment notification for the year 2025. This specialized recruitment drive is aimed at strengthening the Marine Wing of the Customs Department in the coastal region of Kochi. The Customs Marine Wing plays a vital role in safeguarding the nation's maritime borders, preventing smuggling activities at sea, and ensuring the technical maintenance of surveillance vessels. This notification invites applications for various Group C non-gazetted and non-ministerial posts including Tradesman, Seaman, Greaser, and Senior Store Keeper.
For candidates who have completed their 10th standard (SSC) or possess ITI certifications and have a background in maritime operations, this is an exceptional opportunity to join a Central Government Department. Working with the Marine Wing offers a unique blend of technical work and sea-faring challenges. The roles involve the operation and maintenance of high-speed interceptor boats and other mechanized vessels used by the Preventive unit. With the application deadline set for December 15, 2025, eligible Indian citizens are encouraged to submit their applications through the prescribed offline mode. This 2000-word comprehensive guide provides all the necessary details, including salary structures, eligibility requirements, selection procedures, and expert preparation strategies for the upcoming exams.
Joining the Customs Department as part of the Marine Wing is highly prestigious. These positions are permanent and come with the stability of the 7th Central Pay Commission (CPC) pay levels. Beyond the salary, employees are part of a disciplined force dedicated to national security and revenue protection. Whether you are an experienced seaman or a skilled tradesman looking for a disciplined career path, this notification provides a gateway to a rewarding professional life in Cochin, Kerala. In the following sections, we will break down the academic, physical, and technical requirements needed to clear this competitive recruitment process.
Important Highlights and Recruitment Dates
As this is an offline recruitment process, candidates must be extremely careful with the timeline. Applications must reach the specified address in Cochin via Ordinary Post only. It is recommended to dispatch your application early to avoid potential postal delays, especially if sending from outside Kerala. Please note that courier services or applications delivered by hand will not be entertained.
| Event / Feature | Dates and Information |
|---|---|
| Official Notification Release | November 2025 |
| Application Mode | Offline (By Ordinary Post) |
| Last Date for Receipt of Application | December 15, 2025 |
| Organization | Customs (Preventive) Commissionerate, Kochi |
| Job Category | Group C (Non-Gazetted/Non-Ministerial) |
| Job Location | Cochin (Kerala) |
Vacancy Details and Pay Matrix
The 19 vacancies are categorized according to the functional needs of the vessels and the storage units. The salary for these posts is structured as per the latest 7th CPC matrix, providing attractive entry pay levels along with central government allowances.
| Post Name | Vacancies & Category Breakdown | Pay Level (7th CPC) |
|---|---|---|
| Seaman | 11 (UR-4, EWS-1, OBC-1, SC-3, ST-2) | Level 1 (₹18,000 - ₹56,900) |
| Greaser | 04 (UR-1, EWS-1, SC-1, ST-1) | Level 1 (₹18,000 - ₹56,900) |
| Tradesman | 03 (UR-1, OBC-1, SC-1) | Level 2 (₹19,900 - ₹63,200) |
| Senior Store Keeper | 01 (UR-1) | Level 5 (₹29,200 - ₹92,300) |
| Total Combined Posts | 19 Vacancies | - |
Eligibility Criteria and Qualifications
The Marine Wing requires a specific set of academic qualifications and, more importantly, sea-going experience. The experience must be verified through certificates issued by the owners of registered mechanized vessels or recognized maritime organizations.
- Tradesman: 10th Standard pass plus ITI Certificate in relevant trades like Mechanic Diesel, Fitter, Turner, Welder, or Electrician. Must have 2 years of experience in an engineering or ship repair organization. Age Limit: Max 25 Years.
- Seaman: 10th Standard pass with 03 years of experience in sea-going mechanized vessels. This must include at least 2 years in Helmsmanship and Seamanship work. Desirable: Certificate of "Mate of Fishing Vessel." Age Limit: 18 to 25 Years.
- Greaser: 10th Standard pass with 03 years of experience in sea-going mechanized vessels, specifically in the maintenance of main and auxiliary machinery. Desirable: Certificate of "Engine Driver of Fishing Vessel." Age Limit: 18 to 25 Years.
- Senior Store Keeper: 10th Standard pass with a minimum of 08 years of experience in storekeeping, accounting for engineering/automobile parts, and procurement procedures. Age Limit: Max 30 Years.
Age Relaxation: Standard relaxations apply: 5 years for SC/ST and 3 years for OBC. For Central Government employees, the upper age limit is relaxed up to 35 years as per the latest government directives.
Selection Process
The selection process for the Cochin Customs Marine Wing is designed to assess the candidate's aptitude and physical readiness for sea duties. The process is transparent and strictly merit-based.
- Written Examination: An objective-type test focusing on general knowledge, mathematics, reasoning, and technical trade questions (where applicable).
- Physical Endurance Test (PET): Since these are maritime roles, candidates for Seaman, Greaser, and Tradesman may be required to pass a swimming test or other endurance drills to prove their fitness for duty at sea.
- Document Verification (DV): Shortlisted candidates must present their original certificates, especially their experience certificates from registered vessels.
- Medical Fitness Test: Final selection is subject to medical clearance by a government authorized medical board. Standard vision and hearing requirements for maritime roles apply.
Detailed Exam Pattern and Syllabus
The written exam is the most crucial part of the screening process. Candidates should focus their preparation on the following areas to ensure a high rank in the merit list.
General Awareness & Current Affairs: Indian History, Geography of coastal India, basic Science, and important events of 2024-25. Special focus on the Role of Customs, basics of Maritime Laws, and the Department of Revenue.
Mathematics & Reasoning: Profit and Loss, Ratio and Proportion, Number Systems, Time and Work. Logical puzzles, analogies, and coding-decoding questions. The difficulty level will be of the 10th standard.
Technical/Trade Section: For Tradesman roles, questions will be asked from the ITI syllabus (Diesel mechanics, electrical circuits, welding types, etc.). For Seaman/Greaser, questions on basic ship-handling, safety at sea, and engine maintenance components may be included.
Physical Endurance Test Details
The PET is generally qualifying in nature. For maritime posts, the Swimming Test is the most important component. Candidates may be asked to swim a specific distance (e.g., 50 meters) without assistance. Other drills may include rope climbing or lifting weights to test the physical strength required for deck operations and engine room maintenance.
Expert Preparation Strategy for Customs Marine Exam
Success in this recruitment requires a blend of general study and practical knowledge. Since there is no interview for Group C posts, your performance in the written test is the only factor for your selection.
Master the Domain Knowledge: For Seaman and Greaser roles, read about the basics of "Seamanship." Understand the names of different boat parts, knots, and safety signals used at sea. For Tradesmen, revise your ITI textbooks thoroughly, as technical questions usually carry high weightage.
Improve Calculation Speed: The math section is often the tie-breaker. Practice 10th-standard mathematics daily. Focus on accuracy to avoid losing marks in the competitive environment. For General Awareness, follow a monthly current affairs magazine or reliable news apps.
Prepare for the PET: If you are not a confident swimmer, start practicing at a local swimming pool. Sea duties require high stamina, so include cardio exercises like running and cycling in your daily routine to stay fit for the physical drills held in Cochin.
Best Books for Preparation
Using the right resources is essential for a targeted preparation. Below is a list of recommended books for the Group C Customs exam.
| General Aptitude: "Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Examinations" by R.S. Aggarwal. |
| Reasoning Ability: "Modern Approach to Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning" by R.S. Aggarwal. |
| General Knowledge: Lucent's General Knowledge and Manorama Yearbook. |
| Maritime Basics: Basic Seamanship Handbooks or NCERT Vocational texts on maritime operations. |
| ITI Technical: Trade-specific guides by Arihant Publications for Diesel Mechanics, Fitter, and Electrician. |
How to Apply Offline: Step-by-Step Guide
Since the application process is strictly offline via Ordinary Post, follow these steps to ensure your form is not rejected due to clerical errors.
- Download the Prescribed Application Format from the official departmental website: cenexcisekochi.gov.in.
- Fill out the form in BLOCK LETTERS using a blue or black ballpoint pen. Ensure your name and father's name match your 10th-standard certificate.
- Paste a recent self-attested passport-size color photograph in the designated box on the application form.
- Experience Certificates: Attach self-attested copies of your experience letters. Ensure the period of service and the nature of the vessel are clearly mentioned.
- Postal Address: On the main envelope (size 28 cm x 13 cm), clearly write in bold: "APPLICATION FOR MARINE WING POST – CUSTOMS (PREVENTIVE) COMMISSIONERATE, KOCHI" along with the Post Name and Category (e.g., Seaman - OBC).
- Include two self-addressed envelopes (size 25 cm x 12 cm) along with the application form. These are used to send the admit cards and interview letters.
- Send the completed set only through Ordinary Post to the address mentioned below.
Documents Needed to Apply
Ensure you have self-attested copies of the following documents ready before packing the envelope. Do not send original documents.
- Educational Proof: 10th Standard Marksheet and Passing Certificate.
- Technical Proof: ITI Certificate in the relevant trade (for Tradesman post).
- Experience Certificates: Proof of service on mechanized vessels or recognized engineering firms.
- Caste Certificate: Valid SC/ST/OBC-NCL/EWS certificate in the format prescribed by the Central Government.
- Identity & Address Proof: Photocopy of Aadhaar Card or Voter ID.
- Age Proof: Birth Certificate or 10th Standard Certificate.
- Photographs: Four additional passport-size photographs without signature or stamps.
Important Links and Address
| Resource / Action | Details / Link |
|---|---|
| Postal Address to Send Application | The Additional Commissioner of Customs (Establishment), Office of the Commissioner of Customs (Preventive), 5th Floor, Catholic Centre, Broadway, Cochin – 682031 |
| Official Kochi Customs Website | Visit Site |
| Notification & Application Form | Download PDF |
Frequently Asked Questions
- Q1: Is there an application fee for the Customs Marine Wing recruitment?
No. According to the official notification released by the Commissioner of Customs, Cochin, there is no application fee for any category. The process is completely free of charge.
- Q2: Can I apply through Speed Post or Courier?
No. The notification explicitly mentions that applications should be sent through Ordinary Post only. Applications sent via Speed Post, Registered Post, or Courier services may be rejected by the department.
- Q3: What is the last date to reach the application in Cochin?
The application must reach the Office of the Commissioner of Customs (Preventive) in Cochin by December 15, 2025. Applications received after this date will not be processed.
- Q4: What kind of sea-going experience is required for the Seaman post?
Candidates must have at least 03 years of experience on mechanized vessels registered with the maritime authorities. This should include tasks like deck maintenance, mooring operations, and basic helmsman duties.
- Q5: Is knowledge of Malayalam mandatory for this post?
While the job is located in Cochin, knowledge of Malayalam is not mentioned as a mandatory requirement in the recruitment rules. However, knowledge of English and Hindi is always beneficial for Central Government roles.
- Q6: Are candidates from states other than Kerala eligible to apply?
Yes. This is a Central Government recruitment, and all Indian citizens meeting the eligibility criteria and experience requirements from any state are eligible to apply.
