Sr. Java Backend Developer

Cognizant; Arkansas; Hybrid; USD 60,000 - 94,000; Full time

Job summary

Cognizant is seeking a Senior Java Backend Developer to design, build, and support scalable enterprise applications. The role emphasizes cloud-native architectures across Azure, AWS, or GCP with microservices and Kafka-driven event processing.

You will work with architects, product owners, and stakeholders to deliver quality solutions, leveraging Docker/Kubernetes and AI-assisted tools like GitHub Copilot to boost productivity. Hybrid work in Bentonville, AR is available.

Qualifications

• 6+ years of hands-on enterprise Java experience with Spring Boot and microservices.
• Experience with Apache Kafka for event-driven architectures.
• Strong Hibernate/JPA and advanced SQL skills.
• Cloud deployment on Azure, AWS, or GCP.
• Docker and Kubernetes experience for containerized deployments.
• Knowledge of CI/CD, testing, and deployment troubleshooting.
• Experience using AI-assisted development tools like GitHub Copilot.
• Excellent problem-solving and communication; ability to work independently.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and maintain enterprise applications using Java 11/17/21, Spring Boot, J2EE, and Microservices architecture.
• Build and support event-driven applications using Apache Kafka, including messaging, asynchronous processing, monitoring, and performance optimization.
• Develop and optimize database solutions using Hibernate/JPA and advanced SQL, ensuring high performance, scalability, and reliability.
• Deploy, support, and manage cloud-native applications on Azure, AWS, and/or GCP; using Docker and Kubernetes.
• Troubleshoot production issues, perform root cause analysis, and implement sustainable improvements.
• Leverage AI-assisted development tools to improve coding, testing, and debugging.

Skills

Java backend development

Microservices architecture

CI/CD practices

Problem-solving

Stakeholder management

Tools

Docker

Kubernetes

Apache Kafka

Hibernate/JPA

Job description

About The Role

As a Senior Java Backend Developer, you will make an impact by designing, developing, and supporting scalable, cloud-native enterprise applications that drive business-critical outcomes. You will be a valued member of the engineering team, working collaboratively with architects, product owners, business stakeholders, and cross-functional teams to deliver high-quality solutions.

In This Role, You Will

• Design, develop, and maintain enterprise applications using Java 11/17/21, Spring Boot, J2EE, and Microservices architecture.
• Build and support event-driven applications using Apache Kafka, including messaging, asynchronous processing, monitoring, and performance optimization.
• Develop and optimize database solutions using Hibernate/JPA and advanced SQL, ensuring high performance, scalability, and reliability.
• Deploy, support, and manage cloud-native applications across Azure, AWS, and/or Google Cloud Platform (GCP), leveraging Docker and Kubernetes.
• Troubleshoot complex production issues, conduct root cause analysis, implement sustainable solutions, and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives.
• Leverage AI-assisted development tools, including GitHub Copilot, to improve engineering productivity, code quality, testing, and debugging efforts.
• Collaborate with technical and business stakeholders to gather requirements, provide technical leadership, and drive successful project delivery.

Work model: Hybrid

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 in Bentonville, AR. Regardless of your working arrangement, we are here to support a healthy work-life balance though our various wellbeing programs.

Please note: A few of our roles may require in-person interviews at Cognizant offices or client locations, depending on project or client needs. 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

• 6+ years of strong hands-on experience developing enterprise applications using Java 11/17/21, Spring Boot, J2EE, and Microservices architecture.
• Proven expertise building and supporting large-scale, high-performance microservices and distributed systems.
• Hands-on experience with Apache Kafka for event-driven architectures, messaging systems, and asynchronous processing.
• Strong knowledge of Hibernate/JPA and advanced SQL, including database design, query optimization, performance tuning, and data modeling.
• Experience deploying and managing applications on Azure, AWS, and/or Google Cloud Platform (GCP).
• Hands-on experience with Docker, Kubernetes, and containerized application deployments.
• Strong understanding of CI/CD practices, build pipelines, automated testing, and deployment troubleshooting.
• Experience using AI-assisted development tools such as GitHub Copilot to support coding, debugging, testing, and code reviews.
• Excellent problem-solving, communication, and stakeholder management skills with the ability to work independently on complex technical challenges.
• Please note, this role cannot offer visa transfer or sponsorship now or in the future*

These Will Help You Stand Out

• Experience leading technical discussions and mentoring development teams.
• Knowledge of cloud-native architecture patterns and best practices.
• Experience improving application observability, monitoring, and performance optimization.
• Exposure to DevSecOps practices and enterprise security standards.
• Experience working within Agile software development environments.

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.

Salary And Compensation

The annual salary for this position will be between $60,000 to $94,000 per year depending on the experience and other qualifications of the successful candidate. This position is also eligible for Cognizant’s discretionary annual incentive program and stock awards, based on performance and subject to the terms of Cognizant’s applicable plans.

Applications will be received by August 20th, 2026.

Benefits

• Medical/Dental/Vision/Life Insurance.
• Paid holidays plus Paid Time Off.
• 401(k) plan and contributions.
• Long-term/Short-term Disability.
• Paid Parental Leave.
• Employee Stock Purchase Plan.

Disclaimer: The salary, other compensation, and benefits 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.