Java Backend Lead

Cognizant; Sunnyvale (CA); On-site; USD 68,000 - 140,000; Full time

Job summary

Cognizant is seeking a Java Backend Lead for an on-site role in Sunnyvale, CA. You will design and deliver scalable cloud-based backend applications and analytics solutions, providing hands-on technical leadership through the entire SDLC.

You will collaborate with PMs, tech leads, and stakeholders to translate business needs into reliable technology solutions. Requirements include 9+ years with Java, Spring, and data technologies; Kafka experience; cloud familiarity (Azure/GCP); and strong CI/CD

Qualifications

• 9+ years of software development experience with advanced Java, Spring Framework, Spring Boot, and Spring Data JPA.

Responsibilities

• Design and deliver scalable backend applications and analytics solutions deployed on cloud platforms.
• Provide technical leadership throughout the software development lifecycle from requirements analysis to production monitoring.
• Lead discussions with program managers, technical leads, and stakeholders to translate business requirements into reliable technology solutions.
• Develop high-quality applications with unit testing and industry practices.
• Guide developers with functional specs, technical specs, and solution design.
• Lead testing, release, and deployment of features into production environments.
• Implement monitoring and observability solutions aligned with client needs.
• Create and maintain clear design documentation for services and interfaces.

Skills

Java

Spring Framework

Spring Boot

Spring Data JPA

Kafka

Cloud platforms

CI/CD

Kubernetes

Agile Scrum

Stakeholder collaboration

Tools

Apache Kafka

Kubernetes

Azure

Google Cloud Platform

Job description

About the Role

As a Java Backend Lead, you will make an impact by designing and delivering scalable, cloud-based backend applications and analytics solutions. You will provide hands‑on technical leadership throughout the software development lifecycle, from requirements analysis and solution design through testing, deployment, and production monitoring. You will work collaboratively with Technical Program Managers, technical leads, developers, and client stakeholders to translate business requirements into reliable technology solutions.

In this role, you will

• Design and implement scalable backend applications and analytics solutions deployed on cloud platforms.
• Analyse business requirements, recommend effective technical solutions, and lead technical discussions with program managers, technical leads, and other stakeholders.
• Develop high-quality applications using industry-standard coding practices, including comprehensive unit testing that meets or exceeds project coverage requirements.
• Provide technical direction and guidance to developers, including support with functional specifications, technical specifications, and solution design.
• Lead the successful testing, release, and deployment of application features into production environments.
• Implement monitoring and observability solutions aligned with client and project requirements.
• Create and maintain clear documentation for application designs, services, interfaces, and technical specifications.

Work Model:

On-site

This is an on‑site role based on business requirements in Sunnyvale, CA. Regardless of work arrangement, we support a healthy work–life balance through our 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.

Please note that Cognizant cannot provide visa sponsorship now or in the future.

What you need to have to be considered

• 9+ years of software development experience with advanced Java, Spring Framework, Spring Boot, and Spring Data JPA.
• Strong hands‑on experience designing and developing Java-based backend applications and services.
• Experience with Apache Kafka or another enterprise messaging or message‑queue technology.
• Experience designing applications for large‑scale or high‑volume environments.
• Practical experience with at least one major cloud platform, such as Microsoft Azure or Google Cloud Platform.
• Experience working with continuous integration and continuous delivery pipelines.
• Hands‑on experience with Kubernetes or related container orchestration technologies.
• Experience delivering software in an Agile Scrum environment, including partnering with technical and business stakeholders.

These will help you stand out

• Strong hands‑on experience with Microsoft Azure.
• Experience designing distributed, cloud‑native, or event‑driven architectures.
• Knowledge of application monitoring, logging, observability, and production‑support practices.
• Demonstrated experience leading technical conversations and mentoring software developers.
• Experience preparing functional specifications, technical specifications, and application design documentation.

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.

Applications will be accepted until October 5th, 2026

Salary and Other Compensation

The annual salary for this position is $68,000 - $140,000, depending on experience, qualifications, geographic location, and other job-related factors.

In addition to salary, this role is eligible for Cognizant's discretionary annual incentive program, subject to individual and company performance.

Benefits

• Medical, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance.
• Paid Parental Leave.
• Short‑Term and Long‑Term Disability Coverage.
• 401(k) Plan with Company Contributions.
• Paid Holidays and Paid Time Off (PTO).
• Employee Stock Purchase Plan (where applicable).
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
• Wellbeing and Mental Health Programs.
• Tuition Reimbursement and Learning Resources.
• Career Development and Certification Opportunities.

Cognizant is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.