About the role

As a GenAI Architect you will make an impact by leading the design, adoption, and scaling of Generative AI ecosystems for our most strategic clients. You will be a valued member of the AIA Team and work collaboratively with managers, team members and clients.

In this role, you will:

• Architect & Implement Enterprise AI Ecosystems

Design and implement modular, scalable AI platforms that integrate Large Language Models (LLMs), Small Language Models (SLMs), and multi-agent orchestration. Ensure architectures are cloud-native, secure, and industry-compliant.

• Drive AI Strategy

Serve as the anchor architect for major client accounts. Lead C-level discussions to define AI roadmaps that link technology to measurable business outcomes. Influence long-term investment strategies.

• Develop, Train & Optimize Models

Lead end-to-end model lifecycle: data preparation, training, fine-tuning, deployment, monitoring, and continuous improvement. Balance LLM vs. SLM adoption for cost, latency, and performance optimization.

• MLOps & LLMOps Leadership

Establish enterprise standards for MLOps/LLMOps pipelines (CI/CD, monitoring, observability, drift detection, compliance). Build agent lifecycle governance frameworks for scalable, auditable AI systems.

• People Leadership & Practice Building

Mentor and grow a community of architects and engineers. Build capability squads in GenAI. Shape the company’s AI practice, including skills development, hiring strategy, and succession planning.

• Ecosystem & Partner Engagement

Build and leverage strategic partnerships with hyperscalers (AWS, Azure, GCP), ISVs, and AI startups. Co-develop joint offerings, influence partner roadmaps, and co-sell AI solutions into strategic accounts.

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 requiring 4 days a week in a client or Cognizant office in Atlanta, GA. Regardless of your working arrangement, we are here to support a healthy work-life balance though 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

• 15+ years in IT & architecture, with clear progression from hands-on engineering (Java/.NET preferred) into enterprise architecture leadership.
• 5+ years in AI/ML, with 1+ year in Generative (LLMs, SLMs).
• Model Training Expertise: Fine-tuning (SFT, RLHF, LoRA/QLoRA), RAG, evaluation pipelines.
• Hyperscaler Certifications: Architect-level expertise in at least two (AWS, Azure, GCP).
• MLOps/LLMOps Mastery: CI/CD pipelines, monitoring, observability, compliance, AI cost governance.
• CxO Advisory: Proven experience leading executive AI strategy discussions with Fortune 500 clients.
• Governance Expertise: Familiar with AI RMF (NIST), EU AI Act, Responsible AI practices.
• People Leadership: Experience mentoring teams and building cross-functional AI capability practices.
• Ecosystem Influence: Track record shaping AI initiatives through partner alliances (hyperscalers, startups, ISVs).

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.

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 Cognizant community:
We are a high caliber team who appreciate and support one another. Our people uphold an energetic, collaborative and inclusive workplace where everyone can thrive.

• Cognizant is a global community with more than 300,000 associates around the world.
• We don’t just dream of a better way – we make it happen.
• We take care of our people, clients, company, communities and climate by doing what’s right.
• We foster an innovative environment where you can build the career path that’s right for you.

About us:
Cognizant is one of the world's leading professional services companies, transforming clients' business, operating, and technology models for the digital era. Our unique industry-based, consultative approach helps clients envision, build, and run more innovative and efficient businesses. Headquartered in the U.S., Cognizant (a member of the NASDAQ-100 and one of Forbes World’s Best Employers 2025) is consistently listed among the most admired companies in the world. Learn how Cognizant helps clients lead with digital at www.cognizant.com

Cognizant is an equal opportunity employer. Your application and candidacy will not be considered based on race, color, sex, religion, creed, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, veteran status or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

If you have a disability that requires reasonable accommodation to search for a job opening or submit an application, please email CareersNA2@cognizant.com with your request and contact information.

Disclaimer:
Compensation 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.

Applicants may be required to attend interviews in person or by video conference. In addition, candidates may be required to present their current state or government issued ID during each interview.