Cognizant

Consulting Principal, AI Architect

Cognizant$165K — $194K *
Enterprise Technology
8 - 10 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • 10+ years in software engineering, AI/ML, or consulting with expertise in Python-based production systems.
  • Hands-on experience with RAG architectures, vector databases, and LLM frameworks (e.g., LangChain, LlamaIndex).
  • Strong skills in prompt engineering and context design with a focus on security.
  • Experience in deploying agentic systems and AI integrations in enterprise settings.
  • Leadership experience in consulting or client-facing roles, able to mentor teams and align solutions to business outcomes.

Responsibilities

  • Architect and implement enterprise-grade LLM solutions with optimized context architectures.
  • Design RAG pipelines and establish measurable frameworks for performance evaluation.
  • Lead development of AI-powered applications, integrating APIs, tools, and systems effectively.
  • Collaborate with stakeholders to ensure AI solutions integrate seamlessly with enterprise platforms.
  • Provide technical mentorship and drive solution design to enhance client outcomes.

Benefits

  • Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance coverage.
  • 401(k) plan with company contributions.
  • Employee stock purchase plan available.
  • Access to an employee assistance program.
  • 10 paid holidays plus additional PTO.
  • Paid parental leave and fertility assistance support.
  • Opportunities for learning and development through various certifications and programs.
Full Job Description
About the role

As a Consulting Principal - AI Architect, you will make an impact by designing and delivering advanced AI solutions focused on LLM-based systems, context engineering, and agentic workflows. You will be a key member of the AI & Data Consulting team and will collaborate closely with clients, delivery leads, and engineering teams to build scalable, enterprise-grade AI applications..
In this role, you will:
  • Architect and implement enterprise-grade LLM solutions, including context architectures, memory models, and prompt engineering strategies
  • Design and optimize RAG pipelines (retrieval, embeddings, re-ranking) with measurable evaluation frameworks for quality and performance
  • Lead development of agentic workflows and AI-powered applications, integrating APIs, tools, and enterprise systems with strong guardrails
  • Partner with business and technology stakeholders to connect AI solutions with enterprise platforms (ERP, CRM, data platforms) ensuring security and data integrity
  • Drive technical leadership by mentoring teams, guiding solution design, and delivering high-impact client outcomes while ensuring scalability, reliability, and cost optimization
Work model

We strive to provide flexibility wherever possible. Based on this role's business requirements, this position requires travel as needed and a hybrid work model, with time spent in a client or Cognizant office in the United States. We are committed to supporting a healthy work-life balance through our wellbeing programs.

The working arrangements for this role are accurate as of the date of posting and may change based on project and client requirements.
What you must have to be considered
  • 10+ years of experience in software engineering, AI/ML, or consulting with strong expertise in Python-based production systems
  • Proven hands-on experience with RAG architectures, vector databases, and LLM frameworks (e.g., LangChain, LlamaIndex, or equivalent)
  • Strong expertise in prompt engineering, context design, and structured output patterns, including mitigation of prompt injection risks
  • Experience designing and deploying agentic systems and AI integrations across enterprise environments
  • Demonstrated leadership in consulting or client-facing roles, with the ability to drive delivery, mentor teams, and align AI solutions to business outcomes
These will help you succeed
  • Experience integrating AI solutions with enterprise platforms, identity systems (SSO/IAM), and secure data environments
  • Familiarity with evaluation and observability tools (e.g., RAG evaluation frameworks, monitoring pipelines)
  • Knowledge of enterprise SDLC practices, including CI/CD, governance, and production support
  • Exposure to distributed systems and scalable architectures in cloud environments
  • Advanced degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or related field; research or thought leadership in AI/NLP is a plus


We're excited to meet people who share our mission and can make an impact in a variety of ways. Don't hesitate to apply, even if you only meet the minimum requirements listed. Think about your transferable experiences and unique skills that make you stand out as someone who can bring new and exciting things to this role.

Compensation
  • $165,000 - $194,000
  • This position is eligible for Cognizant's discretionary annual incentive program, based on performance and subject to the terms of Cognizant's applicable plans

Benefits
  • Medical, dental, vision and life insurance
  • 401(k) plan and contributions
  • Employee stock purchase plan
  • Employee assistance program
  • 10 paid holidays plus PTO
  • Paid parental leave and fertility assistance
  • Learning and development certifications and programs

About Cognizant

TriZetto is Powering Integrated Healthcare Management. With technology solutions touching more than half the U.S. population today, TriZetto is uniquely positioned to drive the convergence of core benefit administration, care management and constituent engagement. TriZetto provides premier information technology solutions that enable payers and other constituents in the healthcare supply chain to improve the coordination of benefits and care for healthcare consumers.

Cognizant Careers

Join the vibrant team at Cognizant, a leading provider of information technology, consulting, and business process services. Cognizant is not just a company; it's a community where innovation, leadership, and diversity are valued and where every team member is encouraged to thrive.

Work You’ll Do

At Cognizant, we are dedicated to helping the world's leading companies build stronger businesses — not just for today but for the future. This commitment to growth and sustainability is what makes Cognizant a unique place to advance your career.

Explore Job Opportunities

Whether you're looking for an entry-level position or a more senior role, Cognizant offers a plethora of job opportunities that could be perfect for you. Our hiring process is designed to be transparent and engaging, ensuring that every candidate is able to showcase their skills and potential fully.

Innovative Work

Join a team where innovation is at the core of everything we do. Cognizant’s professionals are not just part of a company; they're part of a groundbreaking environment that combines technology, insights, and leadership to foster innovation across global industries.

Internship Programs

Kickstart your career with Cognizant’s internship programs. These opportunities allow you to gain hands-on experience, develop your professional skills, and network with experts in your field. An internship at Cognizant is a stepping stone to full-time employment and a chance to see how your studies apply in the real world.

Professional Growth and Development

Cognizant is committed to the professional growth of its employees. With access to cutting-edge training, leadership programs, and diversity initiatives, you can build a career that’s equipped for the demands of tomorrow’s business landscape.

Benefits and Culture

Our employees enjoy a range of benefits designed to support their physical, financial, and emotional well-being. Cognizant’s culture is built on a foundation of respect and inclusivity, where everyone’s contribution is valued. Join us and be part of a team that celebrates diversity and is driven to make a positive impact on the world.

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Enhance your career prospects at Cognizant through our robust networking events. Prepare your resume, sharpen your interview skills, and connect with leaders across the industry to unlock new career paths. At Cognizant, we don’t just offer jobs; we offer career journeys. Be part of a team that’s committed to your long-term career growth and professional development. Join Cognizant today and be a part of our success story.
Learn more about Cognizant
Size
340,400 employees
Market Cap
$28.7 billion
Industry
Net Income
$1.3 billion
Founded
1994
5 Year Trend
+6.5%
Revenue
$16.6 billion
NASDAQ

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