Tech Lead (Java Microservices)

Cognizant; Toronto; Hybrid; CAD 71,000 - 112,000; Full time

Job summary

Cognizant in Toronto is seeking a Tech Lead (Java Microservices) to guide backend design, development, and delivery of enterprise applications. You will collaborate with architects, analysts, and client stakeholders to build scalable, secure systems.

You will lead technical delivery across the full lifecycle, driving code quality, performance, and reliable production support within a cross‑functional Agile team. Hybrid work model in Toronto is available.

Qualifications

• 10+ years hands‑on Java development in enterprise apps.
• Proven microservices design and distributed systems.
• Strong SQL, relational DB design and tuning.
• Experience leading technical teams and lifecycle delivery.
• Effective communication in cross‑functional Agile environments.

Responsibilities

• Lead design and development of Java microservices with scalable architecture.
• Translate requirements into technical solutions and plans.
• Provide code/design reviews, estimation, mentoring and best practices.
• Drive quality, performance, release management, and production support.

Skills

Java expert

Microservices

SQL & data design

Leadership

Agile / cross-functional

Tools

Spring Boot

Hibernate

RESTful APIs

Azure cloud

CI/CD / DevOps

Job description

About the role

As a Tech Lead (Java Microservices), you will make an impact by leading the design, development, and delivery of enterprise-scale backend applications built on Java and microservices architecture. You will be a valued member of the technology team and work collaboratively with architects, developers, business analysts, quality engineering teams, and client stakeholders to deliver high‑quality solutions that support critical business functions.

You will provide technical leadership across the software development lifecycle while helping teams build scalable, secure, and maintainable applications.

In this role, you will:

• Lead the design and development of Java‑based applications and microservices, ensuring scalable architecture, high performance, and maintainable code.
• Collaborate with architects, business stakeholders, and engineering teams to translate business requirements into technical solutions and implementation plans.
• Provide technical leadership through code reviews, design reviews, estimation, mentoring, and development best practices.
• Drive quality, performance, and reliability by supporting testing strategies, release management, production support, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Partner with cross‑functional teams to manage application integrations, database solutions, and cloud‑based deployment practices while ensuring delivery timelines and business objectives are achieved.

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 in Toronto, Ontario. 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

• 10+ years strong hands‑on experience with Java development in enterprise application environments.
• Proven experience designing and developing Microservices and distributed systems.
• Strong expertise in SQL and relational database design, performance tuning, and data management.
• Experience leading technical teams and contributing across the full software development lifecycle.
• Strong communication and stakeholder management skills with the ability to work effectively in cross‑functional Agile environments.

These will help you stand out

• Experience with Azure cloud services and cloud‑native application development.
• Knowledge of Capital Markets business processes and financial services technology platforms.
• Experience with Spring Boot, Hibernate, RESTful APIs, and modern application integration patterns.
• Experience supporting production applications, performance optimization, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Exposure to CI/CD pipelines, DevOps practices, and automated testing frameworks.

Cognizant will only consider applicants for this position who are legally authorized to work in Canada without requiring employer sponsorship, now or at any time in the future.

Note: Certain roles may require candidates to attend in‑person interviews at Cognizant offices or client locations, depending on project requirements.

Applications will be accepted until August 10th, 2026.

Total compensation:

We regularly assess market data to ensure we offer a competitive compensation package for our associates. The base salary for this position ranges between CAD $71,100 to $112,000 per year. Where the successful candidate may fall within the range depends on relevant education, work and/or management experience and other business‑related and job‑necessary qualifications. This position is also eligible for Cognizant’s discretionary annual performance‑based bonus, as well as benefits that support your physical, mental and financial wellbeing.

Applications for this position are reviewed by our recruitment team without the use of artificial intelligence screening tools.