About the role
As a TPF Architect, you will make an impact by designing, developing, and supporting mission‑critical, high‑availability systems on IBM z/TPF platforms. You will be a valued member of a specialized engineering team and will work closely with architects, SMEs, and distributed teams to maintain and modernize legacy transaction‑processing environments.
Cognizant will only consider applicants for this position who are legally authorized to work in the United States without requiring company sponsorship now or at any time in the future.
In this role, you will:
Design, develop, and debug applications using IBM z/TPF, Assembler (BAL), and z/TPFDF macros
Provide architectural and technical expertise for TPF communications and middleware integrations
Work with messaging and communication protocols including EDIFACT, TTY, XML, JSON, and TCP/IP‑based integrations
Troubleshoot complex production issues by recreating scenarios, performing root‑cause analysis, and delivering sustainable fixes
Collaborate closely with triage teams, onshore architects, and offshore engineers
Apply test‑driven development, execute unit test plans, and contribute across the SDLC
Prepare, analyze, and review system and technical documentation
Promote adherence to engineering standards and contribute to continuous process improvements
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 a minimum of 2–3 days per week onsite at a Cognizant or client office in Colorado.
Regardless of your working arrangement, we are here to support 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, business, or client needs. We will always be clear about role expectations.
What you need to have to be considered
10+ years of Strong hands‑on experience with IBM z/TPF / TPF (ALCS) environments
Proficiency with IBM BAL (Assembler), z/TPFDF, and general service macros
Experience using TPF Toolkit, TPF GI, and TPF test tools
Solid understanding of z/TPF concepts, structures, and SPM
Experience with legacy messaging and communication protocols (EDIFACT, TTY, MATIP, MQ, Host‑to‑Host)
Knowledge of middleware communication, networking fundamentals, and TCP/IP protocols
Comfort working in z/VM CMS environments
Strong English communication skills and ability to serve as a technical point of contact
These will help you stand out
Experience with C/C++ on z/TPF or Linux platforms
Working knowledge of Linux file systems and tools
Exposure to hybrid cloud environments
Familiarity with loosely coupled TPF images, VPARS, and IPL concepts
Interest in modernizing legacy platforms while maintaining stability and performance
Cognizant will only consider applicants for this position who are legally authorized to work in the United States without requiring company sponsorship now or at any time in the future.
Please note: This role will require an in-person meet and greet at our Cognizant offices or client location.
Bachelor’s degree in computer science, IT or equivalent
Applications will be accepted until April 14th, 2026.
Salary and Other Compensation:
The annual salary for this position is between $116,100 to $183,500 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
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.
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.