Lead AI Architect - Gen AI and Agentic AI

Job ID: 00066053781

Location: Phoenix, AZ or Minneapolis, MN (Hybrid – 2 to 3 days/week in office)
Employment Type: Full-Time

About the role

As a Gen AI and Agentic AI Architect, you will lead the design and deployment of scalable AI ecosystems for Cognizant’s strategic clients. You’ll drive AI strategy, build modular platforms, and deliver industry-specific solutions that transform enterprise operations.

In this role, you will:

• Architect cloud-native AI platforms using LLMs, SLMs, and multi-agent orchestration.
• Advise Fortune 500 clients on AI strategy and transformation.
• Deliver verticalized AI use cases across industries.
• Lead model development, fine-tuning, and optimization.
• Establish MLOps/LLMOps pipelines and governance frameworks.
• Build and mentor AI teams and practices.
• Co-innovate with hyperscalers, startups, and ISVs.
• Contribute to thought leadership through publications and forums.

Work model

This is a hybrid position requiring 2 to 3 days/week in a Cognizant or client office in Phoenix, AZ or Minneapolis, MN. We support flexible work arrangements and a healthy work-life balance through our wellbeing programs.

What you need to have to be considered

• 15+ years in IT and architecture, including hands-on engineering experience.
• 5+ years in AI/ML, with 1+ year in Generative & Agentic AI.
• Expertise in model training (SFT, RLHF, LoRA), RAG, and evaluation.
• Certifications in at least two cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP).
• Strong background in MLOps/LLMOps and AI governance.
• Experience advising CxOs and leading strategic AI engagements.
• Proven leadership in building cross-functional AI teams.

These will help you stand out

• Publications or patents in Agentic AI or LLMOps.
• Thought leadership in industry events or media.
• Deep domain expertise in one or more verticals.
• Experience with AgentOps, model evaluation, and AI observability tools.

Salary and Other Compensation:

Applicants will be accepted till 12/08/2025

Cognizant will only consider applicants for this position who are legally authorized to work in the United States without company sponsorship.

*Please note, this role is not able to offer visa transfer or sponsorship now or in the future*

The annual salary for this position will be in the range of $120K-$165K 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.

Our strength is built on our ability to work together. Our diverse backgrounds offer different perspectives and new ways of thinking. It encourages lively discussions, creativity, productivity, and helps us build better solutions for our clients. We want someone who thrives in this setting and is inspired to craft meaningful solutions through true collaboration.

If you are content with ambiguity, excited by change, and excel through autonomy, we’d love to hear from you!

Apply Now!

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.