About the Position

AI Test Automation Lead

Date published: Sept 18 2026

Location: Toronto, ON - 199 Bay Street / Canada

Job category: Technology & Engineering

Work model: Hybrid

As an Automation Test Lead, you will lead AI-powered Quality Engineering and test automation solutions, including developing testing strategies and frameworks, integrating testing into CI/CD pipelines, validating AI behavior and integrations, and promoting responsible AI practices across complex insurance and retirement systems.

Responsibilities

Create and maintain test cases for prompt-driven applications, AI agents, RAG systems, and workflow orchestration platforms
Design, build, and maintain automated test frameworks for AI applications and services
Develop automated evaluation pipelines to assess AI responses, workflows, and model behavior
Drive automation-first quality strategy and lead automation solutions across programs
Design scalable automation architectures spanning UI, API, Mobile, and Database layers
Develop and implement GenAI-powered solutions for automated test design, code generation, execution, and defect analysis
Test AI agents, copilots, APIs, workflow engines, MCP integrations, and tool-calling capabilities
Leverage AI and ML tools to enhance test coverage, improve efficiency, and reduce regression cycles
Leverage GitHub Copilot and Claude to enable AI-assisted automation and enforce CI/CD quality gates
Integrate automated AI and regression test suites into CI/CD pipelines to support continuous integration and rapid model updates
Collaborate with cross-functional teams and mentor engineers on GenAI, Agentic AI, automation, model deployment, and AI safety best practices

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 a week in a client or Cognizant office in Toronto or Kitchener location. Regardless of your working arrangement, we are here to support a healthy work-life balance through our various wellbeing programs.

Note: 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.

Requirements

10+ years of Quality Engineering experience covering functional, API, integration, and automation testing with a dedicated focus on AI testing and validation
3+ years in AI/ML systems testing; expert proficiency in AI/ML testing frameworks, MLOps, CI/CD integration, and programming (Python, Java)
Hands-on GitHub Copilot and Claude experience to enable AI-assisted automation and enforce CI/CD quality gates
Hands-on experience with AI platforms and prompt engineering
Ability to work independently, have the capability to lead a team and engage with senior business and technology stakeholders

Nice to Have

Exposure to Life Insurance, Retirement domain

We Offer

Competitive salary ranging between CAD 90,000 – 117,000 per year
Cognizant’s discretionary annual performance-based bonus
Benefits that support your physical, mental, and financial wellbeing

About the Company

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.

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.

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.

Your career, your way

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

Step 4: Decision time

Our team will then review each candidate’s 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.

Cognizant has given me the opportunity to thrive as a leader and as a person. The culture of recognition, the great benefits, and the sense of community motivate me, and I strive to give my best every day.

Decree Olam

Team Leader - Intuitive Operations & Automation

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

I have the privilege of working with an amazing, diverse team with loads of international experience. It’s inspiring when we all bring our different thinking, skills, and experience together to deliver great things.

Kate Wilson

Technology Consulting Manager

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

AI Test Automation Lead

Job description