Associate Architect

About the Position

Associate Architect

Serve as an Associate Architect specializing in IBM mainframe and transaction processing platforms designing resilient solutions using IBM z TPFDF, IBM TPF Assembler, and MVS Assembler HLASM 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 nonfunctional 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 preproduction 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 compensation and benefits package.
• Opportunity to work in a dynamic and innovative environment.
• Collaborative and inclusive work culture.
• Professional growth and development opportunities.

About the Company

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 follow us on Twitter.

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] with your request and contact information.

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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.

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