Cognizant

Mainframe Modernization & Cloud Transformation

Cognizant$104K — $166K *
Information Technology
11 - 15 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • 15+ years of experience in software architecture or large-scale transformation programs.
  • Proven experience with mainframe modernization using COBOL, JCL, CICS, DB2, VSAM.
  • Strong expertise in Java, Spring Boot, and cloud-native application development.
  • In-depth knowledge of AWS cloud services and best practices.
  • Experience with enterprise Angular applications and modern front-end frameworks.
  • Hands-on DevOps expertise, including CI/CD and Infrastructure as Code.
  • Strong stakeholder management skills, influencing both technical and executive audiences.

Responsibilities

  • Define and own the target-state architecture for a portfolio of 50 applications.
  • Lead architecture governance by establishing standards for delivery teams.
  • Drive mainframe modernization by guiding the transformation of legacy data structures.
  • Collaborate with engineering teams to design and implement scalable Java microservices.
  • Define architecture standards for AI-assisted software modernization.
  • Provide technical leadership and manage architectural risks across projects.

Benefits

  • Medical, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance
  • 401(k) Plan with Company Contributions
  • Paid Time Off and Paid Holidays
  • Short-Term and Long-Term Disability Coverage
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) and Health Savings Accounts (HSA)
  • Wellbeing and Mental Health Support Programs
  • Learning and Professional Development Opportunities
Full Job Description
About the role

As a Solution Architect, you will make an impact by leading the architecture and modernization of a large-scale enterprise transformation program, helping migrate legacy mainframe applications to modern cloud-native platforms. You will be a valued member of the modernization and architecture team and will work collaboratively with business stakeholders, engineering teams, cloud architects, modernization specialists, and AI enablement teams to deliver innovative solutions at scale.

In this role, you will:
  • Define and own the target-state architecture across a portfolio of approximately 50 applications, including modernization strategy, API architecture, cloud adoption, data transformation, and front-end integration.
  • Lead architecture governance by establishing standards, reusable patterns, and solution review processes that enable consistency across multiple delivery teams
  • Drive mainframe modernization initiatives by guiding the extraction and transformation of business rules, data structures, and workflows from legacy technologies including COBOL, JCL, CICS, DB2, VSAM, and related mainframe environments
  • Collaborate with engineering teams to design and implement scalable Java microservices, modern APIs, cloud-native solutions, and enterprise Angular applications.
  • Define architecture and governance standards for AI-assisted software modernization, including code transformation, business rule extraction, quality validation, and human review processes.
  • Provide technical leadership, manage architectural risks, ensure compliance with security and regulatory requirements, and serve as the primary escalation point for complex technical challenges.

Work model

We believe hybrid work is the way forward as we strive to provide flexibility wherever possible. Based on this role's business requirements, this is a hybrid position requiring 3 days per week in a client office in Hartford, Connecticut and 2 days remote. Regardless of your working arrangement, we are here to support a healthy work-life balance through our various wellbeing programs.

The working arrangements for this role are accurate as of the date of posting. This may change based on the project you're engaged in, as well as business and client requirements. Rest assured, we will always be clear about role expectations.

What you need to have to be considered
  • 15+ years of experience in software architecture, enterprise application development, or large-scale transformation programs.
  • Proven experience leading mainframe modernization initiatives involving COBOL, JCL, CICS, DB2, VSAM, copybooks, batch processing, and online transaction systems.
  • Strong expertise in Java, Spring Boot, cloud-native application development, microservices architecture, and API design.
  • Deep knowledge of AWS cloud services, including compute, networking, security, storage, observability, resiliency, and cost optimization best practices.
  • Experience designing and implementing enterprise-scale Angular applications and modern front-end architectures.
  • Hands-on expertise with DevOps practices, CI/CD pipelines, Infrastructure as Code, containerization, and cloud deployment platforms.
  • Strong stakeholder management skills with the ability to influence both technical and executive audiences.
  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Information Technology, or a related discipline.

These will help you stand out
  • Experience delivering modernization programs within the insurance or other highly regulated industries.
  • Experience implementing AI-assisted software engineering, code transformation, or agentic development platforms.
  • Knowledge of prompt engineering, large language models, and AI governance frameworks within enterprise environments.
  • AWS Certified Solutions Architect Professional certification.
  • TOGAF or other enterprise architecture certifications.
  • Experience leading globally distributed teams and complex multi-workstream transformation programs.

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

The annual salary for this position is between $104,850 and $166,500 per year, depending on experience, qualifications, geographic location, and other factors permitted by applicable law.

Benefits

Applications will be accepted until 10/18/2026.

Cognizant offers a comprehensive benefits package for eligible employees, including:
  • Medical, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance
  • 401(k) Plan with Company Contributions
  • Paid Time Off and Paid Holidays
  • Short-Term and Long-Term Disability Coverage
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) and Health Savings Accounts (HSA)
  • Wellbeing and Mental Health Support Programs
  • Employee Recognition Programs
  • Learning and Professional Development Opportunities

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.

Stay Connected

Join Our Team Search open positions that match your skills and interests. We look for passionate, curious, creative, and solution-driven team players. Ready to take the next step in your career journey? Explore the exciting employment and career opportunities waiting for you at Cognizant.

Keep Up to Date

Stay ahead with career tips, insider perspectives, and industry-leading insights you can put to use today—all from the people who work here.

Job Alert Emails

Personalize your subscription to receive job alerts, latest news, and insider tips tailored to your preferences. Discover the rewarding opportunities that await at Cognizant.

Networking and Interviews

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

Similar Jobs

More Jobs at Cognizant

More Information Technology Jobs

Find similar Mainframe Modernization & Cloud Transformation jobs: