Project Associate (Software) Jobs 2026 – Cybersecurity Vacancy at SETS Chennai

Society for Electronic Transactions and Security (SETS) Recruitment 2026 – Overview

The Society for Electronic Transactions and Security (SETS) has announced an exciting opportunity for tech professionals through its 2026 recruitment drive for Project Associate (Software) positions. This project-based role offers candidates a chance to work on cutting-edge cybersecurity research and development initiatives at SETS' Chennai campus. The temporary contractual positions (initially for one year, extendable based on project needs) are ideal for young engineers seeking hands-on experience in advanced cybersecurity domains. With only 4 vacancies available, this recruitment presents a competitive opportunity for B.Tech/B.E graduates (preferably with M.Tech qualifications) to contribute to national cybersecurity projects while developing specialized skills in areas like penetration testing, network security, and reverse engineering. The project-mode nature of these positions makes them particularly valuable for candidates looking to build expertise before transitioning to permanent roles in India's growing cybersecurity sector.

Eligibility, Selection Process & Key Highlights

Eligible candidates must possess a B.Tech/B.E degree in Computer Science, IT, Cyber Security or related fields with minimum 60% marks, along with 0-4 years of relevant experience. The selection process involves rigorous evaluation through written tests and/or interviews conducted at SETS Chennai. Successful candidates will receive a consolidated monthly salary between ₹40,000-60,000 based on qualifications and experience. What makes these positions particularly attractive is the opportunity to work with advanced cybersecurity tools like Wireshark, IDA Pro, and Ghidra while contributing to national security projects. Applicants should note the strict 35-year age limit (as of 19th February 2026) and the requirement to submit all documents in specific PDF formats. With no application fees and a straightforward online submission process, this recruitment offers accessible entry into high-tech cybersecurity research.

About Important Dates of SETS Recruitment 2026

The SETS recruitment process for Project Associate positions follows a tight schedule with the application window open for just 6 days from 13th to 19th February 2026. Candidates must note that the portal will close precisely at 6 PM on the last date, leaving no room for last-minute submissions. Unlike many government recruitments, this project-based position doesn't feature a correction window, making it crucial to submit error-free applications in the first attempt. The short application period indicates SETS's requirement for quick hiring for their cybersecurity projects. Applicants should prepare all documents (academic certificates and experience proofs in PDF format) in advance to avoid last-minute technical issues. Successful candidates will receive interview details via email, so regular inbox monitoring after the application deadline is essential.

About Application Fees of SETS Recruitment 2026

SETS has adopted a no-fee application model for this recruitment, making it accessible to all eligible candidates regardless of category. This is particularly beneficial for freshers and students transitioning into cybersecurity roles. While no payment is required, applicants must still complete the online submission process through the official SETS website (setsindia.in) before the deadline. Since there's no financial transaction involved, concerns about failed payments or refunds don't apply here. However, candidates should still save the application confirmation receipt/email as proof of submission. The absence of fees doesn't reduce the importance of carefully reviewing eligibility criteria before applying, as the selection process remains competitive with written tests and interviews conducted at SETS Chennai campus.

About Vacancy Details of SETS Recruitment 2026

The SETS recruitment 2026 offers 4 Project Associate (Software) positions in cybersecurity research. While the total vacancies appear limited, the specialized nature of these R&D roles makes them highly competitive. Notably, the notification doesn't specify category-wise reservations (SC/ST/OBC/EWS), which is unusual for government-affiliated projects. Candidates should note these are purely temporary contractual positions under project mode with no scope for regularization. The small number of seats indicates SETS is looking for highly specialized candidates with precise skill sets in cybersecurity tools and programming languages. Compared to previous recruitments, this appears to be a focused hiring drive for specific project requirements rather than large-scale recruitment.

About Eligibility Criteria of SETS Recruitment 2026

The eligibility criteria for Project Associate positions at SETS require careful attention. The "recognized university" clause means degrees must be from UGC/AICTE-approved institutions. For IT qualifications, only programs approved by NCVT/SCVT are valid. The age cut-off date (19.02.2026) is absolute - no exceptions are made for candidates crossing the 35-year limit even by one day. The 60% marks requirement applies to all semesters collectively, not individual years. The extensive skill requirements in areas like penetration testing and reverse engineering suggest SETS prioritizes practical abilities over mere qualifications. Candidates must ensure their experience certificates clearly mention cybersecurity-related work, as generic IT experience may not qualify. The absence of physical eligibility criteria is notable for these technical roles.

About Category Wise Posts of Society for Electronic Transactions and Security (SETS) Recruitment 2026

The official notification for SETS Project Associate recruitment 2026 does not specify category-wise distribution of the 4 available posts. In such cases, candidates should carefully monitor the official website for any subsequent notifications regarding reservation policies. While applying, candidates must ensure they meet all eligibility criteria and possess valid category certificates (if applicable) as per Government of India norms. Since this is a project-based temporary position, the reservation rules may differ from regular government posts. Applicants should submit authentic documents and apply under their correct category (if specified later) to avoid disqualification at any stage of the selection process.

About Exam Pattern of Society for Electronic Transactions and Security (SETS) Recruitment 2026

The selection process for SETS Project Associate consists of two stages. First, candidates will be shortlisted based on their eligibility criteria and application details. Shortlisted candidates will then undergo Stage II which may include a Written Test and/or Interview conducted physically at SETS Chennai. Since detailed exam pattern (marks distribution, negative marking, qualifying criteria) isn't specified, candidates should prepare comprehensively across all mentioned skill areas including programming (C/C++, Python, MATLAB), networking protocols, cybersecurity tools, and penetration testing. The interview will likely assess both technical knowledge and problem-solving abilities. Candidates should be prepared to demonstrate hands-on expertise during the selection process and bring all original documents for verification.

About Physical Eligibility Criteria of SETS Recruitment 2026

For the Project Associate (Software) position at SETS, there are no specific physical eligibility criteria. This is because the role is primarily technical and research-oriented, involving software development and cybersecurity tasks that don't require physical exertion or field work. Candidates should note that while there are no height, chest, or physical efficiency requirements, they must be medically fit to perform office-based computer work. The selection process focuses entirely on technical qualifications and skills rather than physical capabilities. This is typical for research and development positions in cybersecurity where cognitive abilities and technical expertise take precedence over physical attributes.

About Salary of SETS Recruitment 2026

The salary structure for Project Associates at SETS follows a consolidated pay model ranging from ₹40,000 to ₹60,000 per month, determined by the candidate's qualifications and experience. This is a fixed monthly amount that doesn't include separate allowances like DA, HRA, or TA. While the salary is competitive for entry-level cybersecurity positions, candidates should understand that this is a project-based contractual appointment without the benefits of permanent government positions. The higher end of the salary range (₹60,000) is typically offered to candidates with M.Tech qualifications and relevant experience. The consolidated nature means take-home salary will be close to the mentioned figures, with minimal deductions. This salary structure is designed to attract skilled professionals for short-term research projects while maintaining flexibility for the organization.

About Syllabus of SETS Recruitment 2026

The SETS Project Associate syllabus focuses heavily on practical cybersecurity skills rather than theoretical knowledge. The most scoring sections will be Programming Languages (especially Python) and Networking Protocols, which form the foundation for other topics. The Reverse Engineering components (Ghidra, Assembly) are advanced topics that may require dedicated preparation time. Pro Tip: While there's no negative marking, the technical depth required means you should prioritize hands-on practice with tools like Wireshark and IDA Pro. The Computer Science fundamentals act as qualifying criteria - you must demonstrate working knowledge of all listed technologies to clear the technical interview.

About How to Fill Application Form for SETS Recruitment 2026

Applying for SETS positions requires careful attention to document preparation. The most common rejection reasons are improperly merged PDFs (certificates must be in exact two files) and last-minute submissions. Important: SETS doesn't allow application edits after submission, so verify all details before final upload. Always use a permanent email address (not educational institution emails that may expire) as all communication happens via email. Pro Tip: Even though there's no application fee, maintain proof of submission including timestamps. For the interview stage, you'll need to produce original documents matching your uploaded files exactly - any discrepancy can lead to disqualification.

About Mode of Selection for SETS Recruitment 2026

The selection process follows a rigorous three-stage evaluation designed to assess both technical competence and problem-solving abilities. Initial shortlisting will filter candidates based on strict eligibility criteria including educational qualifications and experience. The written test will evaluate practical cybersecurity knowledge through scenario-based questions on networking protocols, penetration testing, and reverse engineering. Candidates reaching the interview stage should prepare for in-depth technical discussions on their project experience and analytical capabilities. The final merit list will combine written test scores (70% weightage) and interview performance (30% weightage). Since this is a project-based position, the selection committee particularly values candidates who demonstrate adaptability to fast-paced research environments and the ability to quickly assimilate new cybersecurity concepts.

About Documents Required for SETS Recruitment 2026

Document verification is a critical final step where even qualified candidates can face disqualification. All academic certificates must show consistent name spellings - any discrepancy requires an affidavit. Experience certificates should clearly mention the duration, job role, and technologies worked with. For age proof, the 10th certificate is preferred as it's less likely to have name variations. Category certificates must be valid as per current financial year guidelines.

Beyond the standard recruitment details, the Society for Electronic Transactions and Security (SETS) notification contains several crucial points that candidates must thoroughly understand before proceeding with their application:

Career Implications of Temporary Project-Based Employment

This position is explicitly temporary and project-based with no possibility of regularization, which significantly impacts career planning. The one-year contract (extendable based on project needs) suggests candidates should view this as a skill-building opportunity rather than long-term employment. For fresh graduates, this offers hands-on experience in cutting-edge cybersecurity research. However, mid-career professionals should carefully weigh the instability against the prestige of working on government-backed R&D projects. The salary range (₹40,000-60,000) is competitive for contract roles but lacks benefits like pensions or allowances. Candidates should note the stark warning about no absorption - this is purely a project staffing solution with finite tenure tied to specific research deliverables in cybersecurity domains like quantum security and network hardening.

Decoding the Specialized Skill Requirements

The exhaustive technical requirements reveal SETS' exacting standards for this cybersecurity role. Beyond standard programming (C/C++, Python), the demand for ARM/MIPS/x86 assembly knowledge and tools like Ghidra suggests reverse-engineering of firmware vulnerabilities will be core work. The networking protocol specifications (down to packet analysis with Wireshark) indicate candidates will likely audit network security implementations. Notably, the inclusion of MATLAB hints at cryptographic algorithm development work. These aren't generic IT skills - they're tailored for advanced offensive security research. Candidates without active experience in penetration testing or binary analysis should reconsider applying, as the depth of requirements suggests SETS will rigorously test these competencies during selection.

Operational Realities of Project-Based Posting

The Chennai-based posting at MGR Knowledge City comes with specific operational constraints. Being project-tied means relocation for non-local candidates is risky - project discontinuation could mean immediate termination. The notification mentions extension possibilities but doesn't define performance metrics. Crucially, there's no mention of travel allowances even for interview attendance, suggesting candidates must bear all mobility costs. The work location in a government technology campus implies high-security protocols - candidates should prepare for background checks. The absence of transfer policies reinforces the temporary nature - this isn't a transferable government position but a fixed-location project assignment requiring continuous physical presence at the Chennai facility.

Documentation Pro-Tips for Technical Roles

For technical research positions, SETS expects meticulous documentation. Combine all academic certificates into a single PDF arranged chronologically - fragmented uploads often lead to rejection. Experience certificates must explicitly mention cybersecurity tasks performed, not just generic IT roles. A pro-tip: create an additional skills matrix document mapping your expertise to each listed requirement (TCP/IP, IDS/IPS etc.) with project examples. Since no photo/signature specs are provided, use standard 35x45mm JPEGs and scanned signatures under 50KB. Crucially, ensure your application highlights hands-on experience with the niche tools mentioned (IDA Pro, SIEM tools) - theoretical knowledge won't suffice for this practical research role. Double-check that file sizes don't exceed unspecified limits by keeping PDFs under 2MB each.