Java Backend Lead Developer
Confirmed on the employer's own hiring board on Oct 24, 2026. First seen by Alion on Oct 7, 2026. Cognizant scores A on the Alion truth index.
About the role
As a Java Backend Lead Developer, you will make an impact by designing and delivering scalable, cloud-based applications and analytics solutions using modern Java technologies. You will be a valued member of the engineering team and work collaboratively with technical program managers, technology leads, developers, and other stakeholders to translate business requirements into reliable solutions.
In this role, you will provide technical leadership throughout the software development lifecycle while promoting engineering quality, cloud-native practices, and successful production delivery.
*Cognizant cannot provide sponsorship for this role now or in the future.*
Work model
This is a hybrid 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.
In this role, you will:
- Lead the design and development of scalable backend applications and analytics solutions using Java, Spring, Spring Boot, and cloud technologies.
- Partner with technical program managers, technology leads, and business stakeholders to evaluate requirements, recommend solutions, and guide technical conversations.
- Develop high-quality application features in accordance with established coding standards, including unit testing and project-defined code coverage requirements.
- Provide technical guidance to developers and support the preparation of functional specifications, technical specifications, service documentation, and solution designs.
- Oversee application testing, deployment, and production readiness, including the implementation of appropriate monitoring and observability solutions.
What you need to have to be considered
- 9+ years of software development experience, with advanced expertise in Java, Spring, Spring Boot, and Spring Data JPA.
- Strong experience designing and developing scalable backend applications, preferably in high-volume or large-scale environments.
- Hands-on experience with Apache Kafka or another enterprise messaging or queueing technology.
- Experience developing and deploying applications on a major cloud platform.
- Experience with continuous integration and continuous delivery pipelines, Kubernetes, and modern application deployment practices.
- Demonstrated ability to lead technical discussions, guide developers, and collaborate effectively in an Agile Scrum environment.
These will help you stand out
- Hands-on experience with Microsoft Azure.
- Experience designing or deploying analytics solutions and models on Microsoft Azure or Google Cloud Platform.
- Knowledge of cloud-native monitoring, application observability, and production support practices.
- Experience documenting service specifications, solution designs, and technical architecture for complex applications.
- Proven success supporting production deployments for large-scale or high-volume applications.
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 Other Compensation:
The annual salary for this position is between $68,000 - $130,000 depending on experience and other qualifications of the successful candidate.
This position is also eligible for Cognizant’s discretionary annual incentive program, based on performance and subject to the terms of Cognizant’s applicable plans.
Benefits: Cognizant offers the following benefits for this position, subject to applicable eligibility requirements:
- 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.
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.