Skip to main content

Program Scheduler

00070470601

Cognizant is a large IT Consulting Firm that leverages modern technologies to transform a variety modern businesses. The Program Scheduler is responsible for developing, maintaining, and managing detailed project timelines across multiple programs by creating and updating project schedules, monitoring progress, identifying potential delays, and communicating schedule updates to project stakeholders and owners. They will work closely with project managers and work stream leads to optimize project efficiency using project management software (Smartsheets or other) and tools like Gantt charts to visualize critical paths and potential bottlenecks. Please note that this role is 100% onsite in Palo Alto, CA. Only local candidates will be considered.

Role Responsibilities

  • Schedule Development:
    • Help break down project scope into manageable tasks and activities.
    • Collect task durations and dependencies to create a comprehensive project schedule.
    • Utilize project management software to build detailed Gantt charts and critical path analyses.
  • Resource Allocation:
    • Be able to assign personnel, equipment, and materials to project tasks in software.
    • Monitor resource utilization and identify potential resource conflicts.
  • Progress Monitoring:
    • Regularly verify project progress against the schedule.
    • Identify deviations from the plan and analyze the impact on project timelines with the Program owners.
    • Update schedules based on progress and report variances to project stakeholders and owners.
  • Risk Management:
    • Identify potential schedule risks and flag to program owners so they can develop mitigation strategies.
    • Proactively communicate potential delays to project management.
  • Communication and Collaboration:
    • Collaborate closely with project managers, team members, and other stakeholders to ensure schedule alignment.
    • Provide regular schedule updates and reports for team members to be able to use in program updates and planning.
    • Assess the impact of project changes on the schedule and communicate them effectively to the project team.

Desired Skills & Experience

  • At least a Bachelor's degree is required
  • 5+ plus years of related experience, such as in Project/Program Management
  • Technical Skills:
    • Expertise in project management software
    • Understanding of critical path analysis and scheduling methodologies
    • Ability to develop complex project schedules with accurate task dependencies and intersecting project schedules
  • Analytical Skills:
    • Strong analytical skills to identify trends, forecast potential issues, and interpret data
  • Communication Skills:
    • Clear and concise communication to effectively convey schedule information to stakeholders
  • Collaboration Skills:
    • Ability to work effectively with cross-functional teams

Salary and Other Compensation:

The annual salary for this position is between $55,000 - $67,000 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.

LA County (only): Qualified applicants with arrest and/or conviction records will be considered for employment.

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.


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.

If you have a disability that requires reasonable accommodation to search for a job opening or submit an application, please email [email protected] for roles based in the Americas or [email protected] for roles based in India.

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.

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