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Associate Architect

00068819852



Job Summary

Serve as an Associate Architect specializing in IBM mainframe and transaction processing platforms designing resilient solutions using IBM z TPFDF IBM TPF Assembler and MVS Assembler HLASM for large scale enterprise environments. Collaborate closely with cross functional teams in a hybrid work model to modernize critical systems enhance performance and ensure reliability for high volume safety critical workloads.


Responsibilities

  • Design and evolve high performance transaction processing solutions using IBM z TPFDF to support mission critical enterprise applications with stringent availability needs.
  • Develop optimized modules in IBM TPF Assembler that efficiently handle large scale workloads while maintaining strict reliability and throughput targets.
  • Implement robust low level services and utilities using MVS Assembler HLASM to enable stable integration with surrounding mainframe subsystems.
  • Analyze complex existing TPF and MVS Assembler codebases to identify optimization opportunities reduce technical debt and improve maintainability.
  • Collaborate with system engineers testers and product teams to translate functional and nonfunctional requirements into detailed mainframe technical designs.
  • Create detailed architecture and design documentation that clearly explains structures data flows and error handling for IBM z TPFDF and Assembler components.
  • Conduct rigorous code reviews of IBM TPF Assembler and HLASM modules to ensure adherence to coding standards performance guidelines and security practices.
  • Perform advanced debugging and root cause analysis for production and preproduction incidents on TPF platforms to restore service quickly and prevent recurrence.
  • Optimize memory usage I O handling and CPU consumption in TPF and MVS Assembler routines to meet service level objectives and cost efficiency targets.
  • Partner with infrastructure and operations teams to plan capacity tune system parameters and validate that architectural decisions align with platform constraints.
  • Guide continuous improvement initiatives that introduce automation better monitoring and standardized patterns across TPF and Assembler components.
  • Prepare and execute unit tests component tests and integration tests tailored for low level IBM z mainframe environments to ensure robust releases.
  • Document operational runbooks and support guides that help production support teams handle common scenarios fallback paths and recovery steps for TPF solutions.
  • Communicate architectural trade offs and design choices to both technical and nontechnical stakeholders in a clear and concise manner.
  • Align daily work with company objectives by designing systems that improve service reliability reduce downtime and support inclusive access to digital services.
  • Participate in knowledge sharing sessions internal communities and mentoring activities to uplift team capabilities in IBM z TPFDF and Assembler technologies.
  • Ensure that all design and implementation activities comply with regulatory security and audit requirements applicable to enterprise mainframe platforms.

    • Qualifications

  • Apply strong hands on experience with IBM z TPFDF to design performant file processing and data access patterns for transaction intensive solutions.
  • Use deep expertise in IBM TPF Assembler to build and maintain low latency application logic control programs and support modules in large mainframe landscapes.
  • Leverage practical experience with MVS Assembler HLASM to integrate TPF components with other mainframe subsystems and shared services in a cohesive manner.
  • Demonstrate solid understanding of mainframe performance tuning dump analysis and trace tools to troubleshoot challenging issues efficiently.
  • Draw on experience in software design principles data structures and algorithm optimization to craft maintainable and scalable Assembler based architectures.
  • Employ effective communication and collaboration skills to work with distributed hybrid teams and coordinate deliveries across multiple stakeholders.
  • Utilize experience of six to nine years in enterprise software or systems engineering roles to navigate complex environments and deliver stable outcomes.
  • Apply familiarity with modern development practices such as version control automated builds and structured testing adapted for mainframe contexts.

    • What we offer

    • The chance to work with impact. Here, you’re empowered to bring your biggest thinking to help our company and clients improve everyday life.
    • Ownership over your career. Stay at the top of your game through our award-winning learning and development ecosystem. And when your ambitions change or we offer new opportunities, we help you pivot by providing reskilling, on-the-job learning and guidance to find new roles that might be a better fit.
    • The opportunity to thrive on a high caliber team with heart. We celebrate each other’s experiences and perspectives and promote a sense of belonging through our affinity groups and diversity and inclusion initiatives.
    • A comprehensive total rewards package, including a competitive salary and a pension plan with matching contributions.
    • Flexible health and financial benefits to support you and your eligible dependents—from day one.
    • True work-life balance. Be at your best through paid time off, flexible work arrangements, volunteering opportunities, social events, and so much more.  

    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.

    Other employment-related information
    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, provincial or local laws.

    If you have a disability that requires reasonable accommodation to search for a job opening or submit an application, please email [email protected] with your request and contact information.

    Language requirements vary depending on roles, but we ask that all candidates have basic English proficiency for company-wide communications purposes. For roles based in Quebec, professional English proficiency is required, as you’ll deliver services to and collaborate with stakeholders outside the province who may not speak French.

    Your path to Cognizant

    Wondering what to expect after you apply? Here’s a peek at our recruitment process—and keep in mind that not all candidates advance through every step and the process may vary depending on your role and location.

    Your Application Midnight Blue RGB

    Step 1: Application

    Find an open role that aligns with your skills and career goals and show us why you’re the person for the job. Consider joining our Talent Community if you don’t find the right opportunity.

    Phone Call Midnight Blue RGB

    Step 2: Recruiter call

    If one of our recruiters sees a fit, they’ll set up a short introductory call to learn more about you and how your experiences and skills align with the role.

    Step 3: Interview(s)

    If you and our team would like to continue the process, you’ll meet with one of our hiring managers. Some roles may also require technical assessments and/or client interviews.

    Step 4: Final decision

    Our hiring team will then review each candidates’ potential to succeed in the role. This process may take some time because we want to get it right—but you can count on us to keep you updated.

    Benefits that help you thrive and grow

    Our teams achieve incredible things when they feel fully supported. That’s why our benefits program is built around the diverse needs of our people—so they can enjoy a fulfilling, balanced and healthy life.

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    Financial wellbeing

    Financial wellbeing

    We regularly review market data to ensure compensation is competitive and reflects the value you bring. Your benefits extend beyond pay and may include retirement plans, financial education, discount programs, etc.

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    Physical and mental wellbeing

    Physical and mental wellbeing

    We empower you to prioritize your wellbeing through paid time off, flexible working where possible, healthcare plans, counselling, our Mental Health Allyship program and more. 

    Your Career, Your Way
    Your career, your way

    Your career, your way

    With 90% of our associates building skills through GenAI training, job shadowing, industry certifications and more, you have everything you need to build a full career.

    Professionals
    Real-world impact

    Real-world impact

    Think about the biggest brands you rely on. Chances are, they rely on us to help strengthen their business. Here, you’ll turn bold ideas into solutions that improve lives everywhere.

    02.2026 Superlearner Debashish
    "Cognizant has one of the best learning ecosystems you can ask for. From sponsored certifications to training platforms to mentorship, we have all that we need to grow.”
    Debashish Mishra SAP MM Developer
    Laura Reynaud
    "Cognizant offers me more than a job; it offers a community. We support each other, collaborate across borders and celebrate wins together. If you’re looking for a culture that values flexibility, diversity and growth, this is the place to be."
    Laura Reynaud Lead Counsel
    Lucas Hoffman
    “I’ve had the chance to work on impactful projects and shadow colleagues, all while getting involved in internal initiatives. The world is your oyster at Cognizant—you just need to take advantage of it!”
    Lucas Hoffman Consultant
    Sujatha’S Journey Main
    “When I first joined, I was quiet and hesitant to share my thoughts. The leadership programs and the mentoring I’ve received have helped me find my voice and grow as a leader.”
    Sujatha Gopalakrishnan Portfolio Delivery Lead
    Paulo Miguel Epili Main
    "Nobody here says ‘that’s not my job.’ People just help. That’s the entrepreneurial culture that makes me stay at Cognizant.”
    Paulo Miguel Epili Sr. Process Executive

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