Cognizant

Senior Java Backend Engineer

Cognizant$84K — $135K *
Information Technology
8 - 10 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or related field.
  • 10-13 years of backend software engineering experience.
  • Strong hands-on expertise in Java and Spring Boot.
  • Extensive experience with Apache Kafka for event-driven architectures.
  • Deep understanding of AWS Cloud Services for application development.
  • Strong expertise in SQL for performance tuning and optimization.
  • Experience supporting scalable, secure distributed systems.

Responsibilities

  • Design and implement robust backend services with Java and Spring Boot.
  • Develop and maintain Kafka-based event streaming solutions.
  • Architect cloud-native components on AWS for scalability.
  • Create and optimize SQL queries and database schemas for performance.
  • Collaborate with teams to translate business requirements into technical solutions.
  • Enhance system reliability through quality assurance processes.
  • Provide technical guidance and mentorship to development teams.

Benefits

  • Medical/Dental/Vision/Life Insurance
  • Paid Holidays plus Paid Time Off
  • 401(k) Plan and Contributions
  • Long-term/Short-term Disability
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • Employee Stock Purchase Plan
Full Job Description
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Senior Java Backend Engineer (Hybrid)

We are seeking a highly experienced Senior Java Backend Engineer with deep expertise in Java, Spring Boot, Kafka, AWS, and SQL to join our growing engineering team. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record of designing, developing, and supporting large-scale enterprise applications while driving technical excellence across distributed systems and cloud-native architectures.

In this role, you will be responsible for building resilient backend services, optimizing event-driven solutions, and delivering secure, scalable applications that support critical business functions. You will collaborate closely with cross-functional teams in a hybrid work environment to create innovative solutions that generate meaningful value for customers and the organization.
Key Responsibilities
  • Design and implement robust backend services using Java and Spring Boot that deliver reliable business capabilities and provide a scalable foundation for critical enterprise applications.
  • Develop, optimize, and maintain Kafka-based event streaming solutions that enable real-time data processing and support event-driven architectures.
  • Architect cloud-native components on AWS, including compute, storage, networking, and security services, to support highly available and scalable solutions.
  • Create and optimize complex SQL queries, database schemas, and data models to ensure performance, scalability, and data integrity.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional product and engineering teams to translate business requirements into scalable technical solutions.
  • Enhance system reliability through unit testing, integration testing, and automated quality assurance processes.
  • Drive performance tuning initiatives across services, databases, and messaging platforms to improve application efficiency and user experience.
  • Implement secure coding practices, authentication and authorization frameworks, data protection standards, and logging strategies.
  • Contribute to CI/CD pipelines and deployment automation to accelerate release cycles while maintaining platform stability.
  • Provide technical guidance and mentorship to development teams, promoting engineering excellence and best practices.
  • Investigate and resolve complex production issues through troubleshooting, root cause analysis, and preventive improvements.
  • Create and maintain technical documentation, system architecture diagrams, API specifications, and operational runbooks.
  • Evaluate emerging technologies, frameworks, and cloud services to improve scalability, reliability, security, and developer productivity.
Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Engineering, or a related field.
  • 10-13 years of backend software engineering experience delivering enterprise-grade applications and distributed systems.
  • Strong hands-on expertise in Java and Spring Boot, including Microservices Architecture and enterprise integrations.
  • Extensive experience with Apache Kafka, including topic design, consumer groups, stream processing, and event-driven architectures.
  • Deep understanding of AWS Cloud Services, including compute, storage, networking, security, and cloud-native application development.
  • Strong expertise in SQL, including schema design, indexing, query optimization, performance tuning, and database troubleshooting.
  • Experience designing and supporting scalable, secure, and highly available distributed systems.
  • Strong knowledge of software engineering best practices including version control, code reviews, testing methodologies, CI/CD, and documentation.
  • Experience working in Agile/Scrum environments.
  • Excellent communication, analytical, problem-solving, and collaboration skills.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with Microservices and Event-Driven Architecture patterns.
  • Experience with Docker and Kubernetes.
  • Familiarity with monitoring, observability, and logging platforms.
  • Experience supporting large-scale mission-critical enterprise applications.
Preferred Certifications
  • AWS Certified Developer - Associate
  • AWS Certified Solutions Architect - Associate
  • Confluent Certified Developer for Apache Kafka
Work Model

Hybrid - Candidates must be comfortable working in a hybrid environment and collaborating with distributed teams across multiple locations.
Salary and Other Compensation

The annual salary for this position is between $84,000 - $135,000, depending on experience and other qualifications of the successful candidate.

This position is also eligible for Cognizant's discretionary annual incentive program, based on performance and subject to the terms of Cognizant's applicable plans.
Benefits

Cognizant offers the following benefits for this position, subject to applicable eligibility requirements:
  • Medical/Dental/Vision/Life Insurance
  • Paid Holidays plus Paid Time Off
  • 401(k) Plan and Contributions
  • Long-term/Short-term Disability
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • Employee Stock Purchase Plan
Disclaimer

The salary, other compensation, and benefits information is accurate as of the date of this posting. Cognizant reserves the right to modify this information at any time, subject to applicable law.
Important Disclaimers
Application Deadline

Applications for this position will be accepted until August 12, 2026. Candidates are encouraged to apply as early as possible, as the posting may close sooner if a sufficient pool of qualified applicants is identified.

Please note: A few of our roles may require in-person interviews at Cognizant offices or client locations, depending on project or client needs.

Candidate must be legally authorized to work in Canada without the need for employer sponsorship, now or at any time in the future.

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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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.

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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

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