Skip to main content

AI & Shift Left Architect

00069972551

About the Role

As an AI & Shift Left Architect at Cognizant, you will make an impact by driving the shift-left quality strategy and AI-led engineering transformation for one of Belgium's leading financial institutions. You will be a valued member of our Engineering & Quality Practice and work collaboratively with client architects, product owners, and agile delivery teams to define target architectures, build AI accelerators, and embed quality earlier across the entire software delivery lifecycle.

This is a senior, client-facing role that combines deep technical expertise in quality engineering and GenAI with the consulting gravitas to influence at a strategic level — from engineering teams all the way to senior stakeholders.

In This Role, You Will

  • Define and drive the shift-left testing strategy across value streams and Agile Release Trains, establishing quality gates, automated testing, and static analysis directly within CI/CD pipelines.
  • Design and implement AI and GenAI accelerators and agents for requirement analysis, test design, test case and script generation, and code quality assurance — leveraging prompt engineering and agentic workflows.
  • Conduct AS-IS assessments of the client's engineering and quality practices, and define the TO-BE architecture alongside a phased, measurable adoption roadmap.
  • Build reusable assets, including prompt libraries, frameworks, and governance structures designed for enterprise-wide scale and reuse.
  • Define and track measurable outcomes such as cycle time reduction, defect leakage, and cost of quality — ensuring benefit realization throughout the engagement.
  • Run workshops with client architects and product owners, and actively coach delivery teams on AI-assisted engineering practices and modern quality disciplines.

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 regular on-site presence at the client location in Brussels, Belgium. Regardless of your working arrangement, we are here to support a healthy work-life balance through our various wellbeing programs.

The working arrangements for this role are accurate as of the date of posting. This may change based on the project you're engaged in, as well as business and client requirements. Rest assured; we will always be clear about role expectations.

What You Need to Have to Be Considered

  • 10+ years of experience in software quality engineering, test architecture, or engineering practice roles — with hands-on delivery ownership.
  • Hands-on GenAI and LLM expertise applied to engineering use cases, including prompt engineering, fine-tuning, and the design of agentic workflows.
  • Deep shift-left knowledge: TDD/BDD, unit testing, API and contract testing, and quality gate design.
  • Test automation proficiency across tooling such as Selenium and Playwright, and REST API automation frameworks, using Java, Python, or JavaScript.
  • CI/CD and DevOps toolchain experience with platforms including Azure DevOps, GitLab, or Jenkins, supported by cloud exposure in Azure or AWS.
  • Banking or regulated financial services background, with the ability to navigate compliance and governance requirements within a complex delivery environment.
  • Agile at scale exposure (SAFe, ARTs, value streams) and a track record of working effectively within large, cross-functional programs.
  • Strong client-facing communication skills, with the confidence and gravitas to present to senior stakeholders and influence architectural decisions.
  • Professional proficiency in English; knowledge of French and/or Dutch is an advantage.

These Will Help You Stand Out

  • Relevant certifications such as ISTQB Advanced, SAFe, or cloud and AI certifications (e.g., AWS, Azure AI).
  • Experience with AI governance frameworks and responsible AI practices within a regulated financial environment.
  • Exposure to reskilling and capability-building programs, including enabling client teams to develop AI-assisted engineering competencies.
  • A consulting mindset with the ability to build trusted advisor relationships directly with customer stakeholders.

We're Excited to Meet You

We're excited to meet people who share our mission and can make an impact in a variety of ways. Don't hesitate to apply, even if you only meet the minimum requirements listed. Think about your transferable experiences and unique skills that make you stand out as someone who can bring new and exciting things to this role.

What We Offer

At Cognizant, we care about the wellbeing and growth of our people. As part of our Belgian team, you will benefit from:

  • Health Insurance – comprehensive hospitalization cover
  • ️ Life Cover – group insurance for your peace of mind
  • Company Car or Mobility Budget – flexible to your lifestyle and commuting needs
  • Work-from-Home Allowance – supporting your hybrid setup
  • 32 Vacation Days – so you can truly recharge
  • Pension Plan – investing in your future
  • ️ Luncheon Vouchers – a daily benefit to enjoy
  • ✈️ Travel Insurance – coverage when you need it most
  • EcoCheques – rewarding sustainable choices
  • Travel & Entertainment Expense Coverage
  • Laptop & Mobile Phone with Subscription – everything you need to work effectively

Contact the Recruiter

Interested in this opportunity? Reach out directly to our recruiter:

Sophie Künzel [email protected]

About Cognizant: 
Cognizant (Nasdaq: CTSH) is an AI Builder and technology services provider, bridging the gap 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, drive tangible outcomes and keep global enterprises ahead in a fast-changing world. See how at cognizant.ai 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.

a blue line drawing of a plant with leaves

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.

Stay Healthy Midnight Blue RGB

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. 

Build The Career You Want Midnight Blue RGB

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.

Making A Meaningful Impact Midnight Blue RGB

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.

a person sitting at a table using a laptop

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.

a person holding a tablet and talking on the phone

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.

a person smiling at a table with a laptop

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.

a group of people sitting around a table

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
CAN Brigitte
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
2
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

Haven't yet found the right opportunity?

Get the latest updates on job opportunities, recruitment events and company news—tailored just for you!

Be in the know