About AI & Analytics: Artificial intelligence (AI) and the data it collects and analyzes will soon sit at the core of all intelligent, human-centric businesses. By decoding customer needs, preferences, and behaviors, our clients can understand exactly what services, products, and experiences their consumers need. Within AI & Analytics, we work to design the future—a future in which trial-and-error business decisions have been replaced by informed choices and data-supported strategies.
By applying AI and data science, we help leading companies to prototype, refine, validate, and scale their AI and analytics products and delivery models. Cognizant’s AIA practice takes insights that are buried in data and provides businesses a clear way to transform how they source, interpret and consume their information. Our clients need flexible data structures and a streamlined data architecture that quickly turns data resources into informative, meaningful intelligence.
*Please note, this role is not able to offer visa transfer or sponsorship now or in the future*
Job Summary
We are seeking an experienced Lead Data Engineer with deep expertise in the Palantir ecosystem to drive enterprise data platform strategy and delivery. In this Associate Director-level role, you will architect, build, and govern scalable data solutions on Palantir Foundry and AIP. You will work closely with business and technology stakeholders to deliver high-impact data products. The role requires strong technical leadership, hands-on engineering expertise, and a focus on data-driven transformation.
In this role, you will:
· Lead the design, development, and operationalization of data pipelines and ontologies on Palantir Foundry.
· Own the architecture of datasets, transforms, and applications ensuring scalability, reliability, and security.
· Collaborate with data product owners and business analysts to translate requirements into Foundry-native solutions using PySpark, Contour, and Workshop.
· Establish and enforce data quality, lineage, and governance frameworks within the Palantir ecosystem.
· Evaluate and implement Palantir AIP capabilities, including LLM-powered workflows for enhanced business value.
· Mentor junior and mid-level engineers, conduct design reviews, and define engineering best practices.
· Work with cloud infrastructure teams to optimize deployment topology and resource utilization.
· Act as the primary Palantir SME in stakeholder discussions and provide leadership in Agile delivery processes.
What you need to have to be considered
· 10+ years of data engineering experience, including 4+ years working hands-on with Palantir Foundry.
· Strong proficiency in PySpark, Python, and SQL within the Foundry environment.
· Deep understanding of Palantir ontologies, object types, transforms, and Workshop application development.
· Experience with Palantir AIP and familiarity with LLM integration patterns is highly desirable.
· Solid knowledge of data modeling, lakehouse architecture, and enterprise data governance practices.
· Proven leadership experience in managing cross-functional teams and delivering complex data programs, along with strong communication skills.
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Applications will be accepted until 10 Jun 2026.
Salary and Other Compensation:
The hourly salary for this position is between $[151,000 - 177,500] 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
About us
Cognizant (Nasdaq: CTSH) is an AI Builder and technology services provider, building the bridge between AI investment and enterprise value by building full-stack AI solutions for our clients. Our deep industry, process and engineering expertise enables us to build an organization’s unique context into technology systems that amplify human potential, realize tangible returns and keep global enterprises ahead in a fast-changing world. See how at www.cognizant.com or @cognizant.
Additional employment information
Compensation 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.
Applicants may be required to attend interviews in person or by video conference. In addition, candidates may be required to present their current state or government issued ID during each interview.
Cognizant is an equal opportunity employer. Your application and candidacy will not be considered based on race, color, sex, religion, creed, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, veteran status or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.
