Skip to main content

Principal Semantic Architect

00070642111

This position is open only to visa-independent candidates and will not support visa sponsorship now or in the future.


Principal Semantic Architect

About the Role

As a Principal Semantic Architect, you will make an impact by leading the design and implementation of enterprise semantic frameworks that enable data governance, analytics, artificial intelligence, and enterprise-wide data interoperability. You will be a valued member of the Data & AI Architecture team and work collaboratively with business stakeholders, data architects, governance leaders, data engineers, and AI teams to create scalable semantic foundations that drive business value across modern cloud data platforms.

In this role, you will establish enterprise standards for semantic modeling, metadata management, ontology design, and knowledge frameworks while helping organizations unlock the full value of their data for AI, analytics, and digital transformation initiatives.

In This Role, You Will

  • Design, develop, and maintain enterprise semantic models, ontologies, taxonomies, business glossaries, and knowledge frameworks that support enterprise data initiatives.
  • Build semantic layers that connect business concepts and terminology to physical data assets, enabling improved data discovery, governance, and consumption.
  • Architect and implement semantic integrations across Databricks, Snowflake, AWS, Azure, Data Lakes, and Lakehouse platforms.
  • Develop knowledge models and semantic architectures to support AI, Generative AI, Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG), enterprise search, and knowledge graph initiatives.
  • Establish enterprise standards and governance processes for metadata management, lineage, semantic versioning, taxonomy management, and business glossary administration.
  • Facilitate workshops and working sessions with business and technology stakeholders to align on enterprise data definitions, standards, and governance practices.
  • Provide architectural leadership for Data Fabric, Data Mesh, and AI-driven data modernization programs.
  • Partner with data engineering, governance, analytics, and AI teams to create scalable semantic frameworks that improve interoperability and business alignment.
  • Guide enterprise architecture decisions and promote adoption of metadata-driven and semantic-first design principles.
  • Mentor teams and provide thought leadership on emerging technologies, semantic architecture best practices, and enterprise knowledge management strategies.

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 3 days per week in a client or Cognizant office.

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

  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, Data Engineering, Information Architecture, or a related field.
  • 12+ years of experience in Data Architecture, Information Architecture, Metadata Management, Enterprise Data Management, or related disciplines.
  • Strong expertise in semantic modeling, ontology development, taxonomy design, business glossaries, and metadata management frameworks.
  • Proven experience designing and implementing enterprise-scale data and analytics architectures.
  • Experience leading cross-functional architecture, governance, and data strategy initiatives.
  • Strong understanding of enterprise data governance, metadata management, data lineage, and information management best practices.
  • Experience working with modern cloud data ecosystems and enterprise data platforms.
  • Strong stakeholder management, facilitation, communication, and executive presentation skills.
  • Ability to bridge business and technical teams to create scalable data standards and enterprise semantic frameworks.

These Will Help You Stand Out

  • Hands-on experience with Databricks, Snowflake, AWS, Azure, and modern Data Lake or Lakehouse platforms.
  • Understanding of Artificial Intelligence, Generative AI, Large Language Models (LLMs), Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG), vector databases, enterprise search, and knowledge graph architectures.
  • Experience supporting Data Fabric and Data Mesh implementations.
  • Experience designing semantic architectures that enable enterprise AI and advanced analytics initiatives.
  • Knowledge of ontology standards, RDF, OWL, SKOS, SPARQL, graph technologies, and semantic web technologies.
  • Experience implementing enterprise metadata management and governance platforms.
  • Insurance or Financial Services industry experience.
  • Experience driving enterprise data modernization and digital transformation initiatives.
  • Industry certifications related to Data Architecture, Cloud Architecture, Data Governance, or Enterprise Architecture.

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.

Salary and Other Compensation

The annual salary for this position is anticipated to be between $145,000 and $170,000, depending on experience, qualifications, geographic location, skills, and other job-related factors.

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 a comprehensive and competitive benefits package designed to support the health, wellbeing, and financial security of our associates and their families, including:

  • Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance
  • 401(k) plan and company contributions
  • Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP)
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Paid holidays and paid time off (PTO)
  • Paid parental leave and fertility assistance programs
  • Learning and development programs, certifications, and career advancement opportunities
  • Wellness and mental health resources
  • Career growth and internal mobility opportunities

Benefits may vary by location and employment status and are subject to change.

Application Deadline

Applications will be accepted until October 16, 2026.

Cognizant reserves the right to close this posting earlier based on application volume, business needs, or hiring timelines.

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.

a person with long blonde hair wearing a white shirt with orange and purple flowers
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
a person in a blue jacket
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
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
a person with long hair wearing a pink shirt
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
4
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

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