Sr. Java Backend Engineer - Remote Eligible

Senior Java Backend Engineer

As a Senior Java Backend Engineer, you will make an impact by designing and delivering scalable, high-performance solutions that support data-driven and real-time systems. You will be a valued member of a collaborative engineering team, working closely with product owners, architects, and cross-functional stakeholders to translate business requirements into robust technical solutions.

In this role, you will:

• Design, build, and maintain Java-based microservices using Spring Boot with a focus on performance, analytics, and quality engineering
• Implement event-driven architectures leveraging Apache Kafka for real-time data streaming
• Develop and support Kafka producers, consumers, and stream-processing applications
• Integrate Kafka with Spring Boot and Spring Kafka-based microservices
• Lead medium to large-scale engineering initiatives by translating requirements into technical designs and delivering high-quality code on schedule
• Provide technical leadership through design reviews, code reviews, and guidance on engineering best practices
• Diagnose and resolve production issues through root-cause analysis and implement sustainable long-term fixes
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams and stakeholders to clarify technical requirements and support business objectives
• Mentor team members, improve engineering practices, and promote compliance with organizational standards

Work model

We strive to provide flexibility wherever possible. Based on this role's business requirements, this is a remote position open to qualified applicants in the United States. Regardless of your working arrangement, we are here to support a healthy work-life balance through our wellbeing programs.

The working arrangements for this role are accurate as of the date of posting and may change based on business or client needs. We will always be clear about role expectations.

Important: Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States without employer sponsorship, now or in the future.

What you need to have to be considered

• 9+ years of experience
• Strong proficiency in Core Java, J2EE, and modern frameworks including Spring and Spring Boot
• Proven experience designing and developing large-scale, high-performance microservices architectures
• Hands-on experience with Apache Kafka for distributed messaging and event streaming
• Experience with NoSQL databases such as Cosmos DB and MongoDB
• Practical experience with cloud platforms, including Microsoft Azure and/or Google Cloud Platform (GCP)
• Solid understanding of CI/CD pipelines, including troubleshooting build, test, and deployment issues

These will help you stand out

• Experience building resilient and scalable systems in enterprise environments
• Exposure to analytics platforms such as Adobe Analytics
• Prior experience providing technical leadership or mentoring junior engineers
• Strong communication skills and the ability to work effectively with distributed teams

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 don't meet every requirement—your transferable skills and experiences may be exactly what we're looking for.

Salary and other compensation

Applications will be accepted until April 17, 2026. The annual salary for this position is $100,000 – $115,000, 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, and Life Insurance
• Paid Holidays and Paid Time Off
• 401(k) Plan with Contributions
• Short-term and Long-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.

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.