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Mainframe Technical Lead

00068864631

We are currently seeking an experienced Mainframe Technical Lead to provide technical leadership across a complex enterprise mainframe estate.
This role offers the opportunity to take ownership of core system design and execution while supporting large‑scale modernisation initiatives, including rehost and refactor programs.
You will work closely with delivery teams and stakeholders to ensure design integrity across critical workloads, while also mentoring developers and driving best‑practice engineering standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide technical leadership across the mainframe estate, ensuring high‑quality design, development, and delivery outcomes.
• Own and maintain design integrity for core workloads across COBOL, CICS, and JCL environments.
• Lead the design and optimisation of both batch and online transaction processing systems, ensuring performance, scalability, and reliability.
• Support modernisation initiatives, including system rehost and refactor programs, and contribute to cutover planning and execution.
• Collaborate with architects, delivery teams, and stakeholders to align mainframe solutions with broader enterprise strategy.
• Provide guidance and mentorship to onshore development teams, uplifting capability and promoting best practices.
• Oversee production support activities, including incident resolution, root cause analysis, and continuous improvement.
• Manage and maintain SCM processes using tools such as Endevor or equivalent platforms.
• Identify system inefficiencies and implement performance tuning and optimisation strategies.
• Ensure adherence to governance, security, and compliance standards across all development and support activities.

Skills & Experience

• 10+ years of experience in mainframe development and technical design within enterprise environments.
• Deep expertise in COBOL, CICS, JCL, DB2, and VSAM.
• Strong experience designing and optimising batch processing and online transaction systems.
• Proven track record in performance tuning and resolving complex system issues.
• Experience using Endevor or similar SCM tools for controlled development and release management.
• Strong background in production support leadership, including incident management and system stability improvements.
• Hands‑on experience supporting modernisation initiatives, including rehost, refactor, or transformation programs.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills, with the ability to guide both technical and non‑technical audiences.
• Demonstrated leadership capability, including mentoring developers and driving delivery outcomes.

Next Steps

If you feel this opportunity suits you, or Cognizant is the type of organisation you would like to join, we want to have a conversation with you! Please apply directly with us.

For a complete list of open opportunities with Cognizant, visit http://www.cognizant.com/careers

Cognizant is committed to providing Equal Employment Opportunities.
Successful candidates will be required to undergo a background check.

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.

Benefits that help you thrive and grow

Our benefits program is built with you in mind—so you can enjoy a fulfilling, balanced and healthy life.

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Financial wellbeing

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

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Physical and mental health

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. 

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Your career, your way

With 350,000+ roles at Cognizant, you’ll have opportunities explore new technologies, industries and locations—and build the skills you need to grow your career.

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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.

Your path to Cognizant

Here’s what you can expect from our hiring process. Please keep in mind that it may vary by role and location. Explore our FAQs to learn more.

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Step 1: Apply to the right opportunity

Find an open role that matches your skills and career goals and show us why you’re the person for the job. Don’t see the right opportunity? Consider joining our Talent Community.

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Step 2: Connect with your recruiter

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

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Step 3: Show off your skills

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

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Step 4: Decision time

Our team will then review each candidates’ potential to succeed in the role. This step may take some time because we want to find the right fit for both you and us—but you can count on us to keep you updated.

EMEA Alin
Over my 11-year Cognizant career, I’ve grown from being a Jr. Developer to an Engineering Director. With support from Cognizant and my mentors, I’ve also explored mobile development, data and AI. The opportunities here are endless.
Alin Turcu Engineering Director
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Cognizant is great for those wanting to make the world a better place, as we create solutions with top technology partners to address complex problems for our clients.
Brigitte Roy Director of Strategy Alliances
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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
EMEA Elena
My managers and mentors have always been there to guide me, challenge me and give me the space and confidence to grow. When you have the right people around you, work becomes fun.
Elena Becerril Engagement Delivery Lead

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