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Senior Backend Engineer (Java/Kotlin, Microservices)

00069334881

Job Summary

We are seeking a highly skilled Senior Backend Engineer (Java/Kotlin, Microservices) to design and build scalable, high-performance backend systems for enterprise applications. This role requires deep expertise in Java-based development, modern microservices architecture, and cloud-native design principles.

The ideal candidate is a hands-on engineer with strong experience in distributed systems, API development, and database engineering, combined with a passion for writing clean, efficient, and reliable code. Exposure to emerging technologies such as AI integrations and event-driven systems is highly valued.

About the Role

As a Senior Backend Engineer, you will play a key role in building and evolving robust backend services that power critical business applications. You will work on designing and implementing microservices, developing high-quality APIs, and ensuring system scalability, resilience, and performance.

In this role, you will collaborate closely with cross-functional teams including product, architecture, and data engineering to deliver end-to-end solutions. You will contribute to technical design decisions, promote best practices, and help drive innovation through the adoption of modern technologies and frameworks.

This position is ideal for someone who thrives in a fast-paced environment, enjoys solving complex technical challenges, and is passionate about building secure and scalable backend systems. Your expertise in Java, Kotlin, and distributed architectures will be essential in shaping next-generation enterprise platforms, with opportunities to integrate emerging AI capabilities into production systems.

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*Please note, this role is not able to offer visa transfer or sponsorship now or in the future*

In This Role You Will

  • Design, develop, and maintain scalable backend services using Java (17+) and Kotlin
  • Build and evolve microservices architectures, ensuring high availability, resiliency, and performance
  • Develop and maintain RESTful APIs following API-first design principles and enterprise integration standards
  • Implement event-driven architectures using technologies such as Kafka
  • Write clean, efficient, and secure enterprise-grade code, following best practices and coding standards
  • Contribute to system design, including distributed systems, fault tolerance, and scalability strategies
  • Optimize application performance, including JVM tuning, database performance, and caching mechanisms
  • Design and work with SQL and NoSQL databases (PostgreSQL, MongoDB, Redis)
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to deliver end-to-end backend solutions
  • Participate in code reviews, testing, and CI/CD processes to ensure high-quality releases
  • Integrate and explore AI-driven capabilities (LLMs, RAG, semantic search) within backend systems where applicable
  • Contribute to technical documentation, architecture discussions, and continuous improvement initiatives

Work Model

At Cognizant, we strive to provide flexibility wherever possible, and we are here to support a healthy work-life balance though our various wellbeing programs. Based on this role’s business requirements, this is an onsite position requiring 5 days a week in a client or Cognizant office in Salt Lake City, UT.

*Please note, this role is not able to offer visa transfer or sponsorship now or in the future*

Required Qualifications

  • Strong experience in backend development using Java (8–17+), with solid understanding of Core Java concepts (multithreading, collections, JVM)
  • Hands-on experience with Spring Boot and microservices architecture
  • Proficiency in building scalable, fault-tolerant APIs and distributed systems
  • Experience with Kotlin or willingness to work with it in production environments
  • Strong knowledge of event-driven systems and messaging (e.g., Kafka)
  • Experience working with relational and NoSQL databases (PostgreSQL, MongoDB, Redis)
  • Solid understanding of API design, security, and integration patterns
  • Experience with build and testing tools (Maven/Gradle, JUnit)
  • Familiarity with cloud-native development principles and scalable system design
  • Strong problem-solving skills and ability to work in a fast-paced, collaborative environment

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience with reactive programming or frameworks (e.g., Vert.x)
  • Exposure to cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP)
  • Familiarity with containerization and orchestration tools (Docker, Kubernetes)
  • Experience with performance tuning and caching strategies
  • Knowledge of AI/ML concepts, including LLMs, RAG, vector databases, or prompt engineering
  • Experience with Python for scripting, automation, or data-related tasks
  • Understanding of advanced design patterns for distributed systems (e.g., Circuit Breaker, Saga)
  • Strong communication skills and ability to contribute to technical leadership discussions

Additional Information

We welcome applicants who share our mission and can make an impact in a variety of ways. Even if you don’t meet every listed requirement, we encourage you to apply. Consider your transferable experience and unique skills that may bring fresh perspective to the role.

Salary and Other Compensation

Applications will be accepted until June 28th, 2026.
The annual salary for this position ranges from $70,000 – $120,000, depending on experience and qualifications.
This position is also eligible for Cognizant’s discretionary annual incentive program, based on performance and subject to applicable plan terms.

Benefits

Cognizant offers the following benefits for this role (subject to eligibility):
• Medical/Dental/Vision/Life Insurance
• Paid Holidays & Paid Time Off
• 401(k) plan with contributions
• Long‑term/Short‑term Disability
• Paid Parental Leave
• Employee Stock Purchase Plan

Disclaimer

The salary, benefits, and compensation information listed above is accurate as of the posting date. Cognizant reserves the right to modify this information at any time, in accordance with applicable law.

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.

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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.

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What I value most about working at Cognizant is the opportunity to innovate while delivering real business impact. My role allows me to combine strategy, technology, and collaboration across global teams, which makes every project meaningful. The support for continuous learning and innovation has been instrumental in my growth.
Beata Ogorzala Senior Event Manager
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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
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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
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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
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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

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