About the Position

Associate Architect

We are seeking an Associate Architect specializing in IBM mainframe and transaction processing platforms to design resilient solutions for large scale enterprise environments. Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams in a hybrid work model to modernize critical systems, enhance performance, and ensure reliability for high-volume, safety-critical workloads.

Responsibilities

Design and evolve high-performance transaction processing solutions using IBM z TPFDF to support mission-critical enterprise applications with stringent availability needs.
Develop optimized modules in IBM TPF Assembler that efficiently handle large-scale workloads while maintaining strict reliability and throughput targets.
Implement robust low-level services and utilities using MVS Assembler HLASM to enable stable integration with surrounding mainframe subsystems.
Analyze complex existing TPF and MVS Assembler codebases to identify optimization opportunities, reduce technical debt, and improve maintainability.
Collaborate with system engineers, testers, and product teams to translate functional and non-functional requirements into detailed mainframe technical designs.
Create detailed architecture and design documentation that clearly explains structures, data flows, and error handling for IBM z TPFDF and Assembler components.
Conduct rigorous code reviews of IBM TPF Assembler and HLASM modules to ensure adherence to coding standards, performance guidelines, and security practices.
Perform advanced debugging and root cause analysis for production and pre-production incidents on TPF platforms to restore service quickly and prevent recurrence.
Optimize memory usage, I/O handling, and CPU consumption in TPF and MVS Assembler routines to meet service level objectives and cost efficiency targets.
Partner with infrastructure and operations teams to plan capacity, tune system parameters, and validate that architectural decisions align with platform constraints.
Guide continuous improvement initiatives that introduce automation, better monitoring, and standardized patterns across TPF and Assembler components.
Prepare and execute unit tests, component tests, and integration tests tailored for low-level IBM z mainframe environments to ensure robust releases.
Document operational runbooks and support guides that help production support teams handle common scenarios, fallback paths, and recovery steps for TPF solutions.
Communicate architectural trade-offs and design choices to both technical and non-technical stakeholders in a clear and concise manner.
Align daily work with company objectives by designing systems that improve service reliability, reduce downtime, and support inclusive access to digital services.
Participate in knowledge sharing sessions, internal communities, and mentoring activities to uplift team capabilities in IBM z TPFDF and Assembler technologies.
Ensure that all design and implementation activities comply with regulatory, security, and audit requirements applicable to enterprise mainframe platforms.

Requirements

Strong hands-on experience with IBM z TPFDF to design performant file processing and data access patterns for transaction-intensive solutions.
Deep expertise in IBM TPF Assembler to build and maintain low-latency application logic, control programs, and support modules in large mainframe landscapes.
Practical experience with MVS Assembler HLASM to integrate TPF components with other mainframe subsystems and shared services in a cohesive manner.
Solid understanding of mainframe performance tuning, dump analysis, and trace tools to troubleshoot challenging issues efficiently.
Experience in software design principles, data structures, and algorithm optimization to craft maintainable and scalable Assembler-based architectures.
Effective communication and collaboration skills to work with distributed hybrid teams and coordinate deliveries across multiple stakeholders.
Six to nine years of experience in enterprise software or systems engineering roles to navigate complex environments and deliver stable outcomes.
Familiarity with modern development practices such as version control, automated builds, and structured testing adapted for mainframe contexts.

We Offer

Competitive salary
Flexible work arrangements
Comprehensive health benefits
Opportunities for professional growth and development
A supportive and inclusive work environment

About the Company

Cognizant

Cognizant (NASDAQ: CTSH) is an AI Builder and a digital services company delivering end-to-end AI solutions that maximize investments for real results. Our deep expertise in business, process, and technology enables us to embed the unique context of each organization into technology systems from engineering to production at scale. Our goal: to improve the efficiency of teams, create value, and enable large enterprises to stay ahead in a rapidly changing world. Learn more at cognizant.ai or follow us on Twitter.

Additional Job Information

The compensation for this role is contingent upon the date of this posting. Cognizant reserves the right to modify this information at any time, subject to applicable laws.

Cognizant is an equal opportunity employer. Your application will be considered independently of your race, color, sex, religion, beliefs, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by European or French law.

If you are a person with a disability and require assistance with the application process, please contact us at [email protected] to discuss the necessary accommodations for the role or interviews.

Candidates may be invited to participate in face-to-face or video interviews. Additionally, candidates may be required to present a valid ID during each interview.

Benefits That Make a Difference

Financial Well-being

We regularly review market data to ensure that compensation reflects the value you bring. Your benefits go beyond salary and may include pension schemes with matching contributions, financial training, etc.

Physical and Mental Well-being

We encourage you to prioritize your well-being with paid time off, flexible work where possible, health care plans, clinical counseling, our mental health alliance program, and more.

Your Career, Your Way

With over 350,000 roles at Cognizant, you'll have the opportunity to explore new technologies, new sectors, and new locations-and develop the skills you need to advance your career.

Making a Real Impact

Think about the brands you rely on every day. Chances are, they also rely on us to power their business. Here, you'll turn bold ideas into solutions that improve people's lives around the world.

Your Journey to Cognizant

Here's what you can expect from our recruitment process. Please note that it may vary depending on the role and location. Check our FAQ for more information.

Step 1: Find Your Role and Apply

Find an open position that matches your skills and career goals, then show us why you're the perfect fit for the role. If no positions match your profile at the moment, please join our talent community.

Step 2: Chat with a Recruiter

If one of our recruiters determines that you're a good fit for the role, they'll contact you to schedule a brief conversation to better understand your background and skills.

Step 3: Showcase Your Talent

If you and our team want to move forward, you'll meet with our hiring team. Some roles may also require technical assessments and/or client interviews.

Step 4: Final Decision

Our team will then review each candidate's potential to succeed in the role. This step may take some time as we want to make the right decision-but you can count on us to keep you informed.

Didn't Find the Right Opportunity?

Receive the latest updates on our job openings, recruitment events, and tailored news just for you.

We care about your privacy

Thank you, your preferences have been updated.

By clicking "Accept All", you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to give you the most optimal experience using our website. We may also use cookies to enhance performance, analyse site usage and to personalise your experience.

Manage Preferences

Associate Architect

Job description