Lead Java Developer

Job Summary

We are seeking a Lead Java Developer to lead the design, development, and delivery of scalable software solutions. This role combines hands-on Java development with technical leadership, mentoring, and collaboration across Agile teams. The ideal candidate has strong experience with Java, Spring Boot, RESTful APIs, microservices, Kafka, and NoSQL databases, along with the ability to translate business needs into effective technical solutions.

About the Role

As a Lead Java Developer , you will take ownership of the technical aspects of assigned applications while remaining actively involved in application design, development, and automated testing. You will work closely with product owners to plan and prioritize features, support technical roadmaps, and ensure solutions align with business objectives.

You will also provide guidance and mentorship to other engineers, promote consistent development practices, and identify opportunities to adopt innovative technologies. This role is ideal for a hands-on technical leader who enjoys solving complex problems, improving engineering practices, and delivering reliable software in a collaborative Agile environment.

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

In this role, you will:

Own all technical aspects of software development for assigned applications.

Participate in the design and development of systems and application programs.

Serve as a senior member of an Agile team, helping drive consistent development practices, including tools, reusable components, and technical documentation.

Provide technical guidance and mentorship to engineers, with potential management responsibility for a team of two to three engineers.

Identify opportunities to adopt innovative technologies and improve existing solutions.

Collaborate closely with product owners on technical blueprints and annual planning for feature sets that impact multiple platforms and products.

Partner with product owners to prioritize features for upcoming sprints.

Manage and maintain a backlog of technical requirements based on industry trends, emerging technologies, known defects, and application issues.

Lead hands-on application design, software development, and automated testing activities.

Promote continuous improvement across software development processes, engineering practices, and technical solutions.

Work Model

At Cognizant, we strive to provide flexibility wherever possible, and we are here to support a healthy work-life balance though our various wellbeing programs. Based on this role’s business requirements, this is an onsite position requiring 2-3 days a week in a client or Cognizant office in Phoenix, AZ.

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

What you need to have to be considered

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, another technical discipline, or equivalent work experience.

6–9 years of software development experience, including at least one year in a team lead role.

Strong hands-on experience with Java 8+, Spring, Spring Boot, RESTful APIs, and microservices.

Experience with Vertex, Kafka, Couchbase, or another NoSQL database.

Hands-on experience with application design, software development, automated testing, distributed systems, and relational databases.

Strong knowledge of object-oriented design and programming.

Experience working in an Agile development environment.

Strong problem-solving skills, with the ability to interpret technical and business objectives and articulate effective solutions.

Strong communication skills and the ability to mentor and guide other engineers.

Willingness to learn new technologies and proactively identify opportunities for innovation and continuous improvement.

Additional Information

We welcome applicants who share our mission and can make an impact in a variety of ways. Even if you don’t meet every listed requirement, we encourage you to apply. Consider your transferable experience and unique skills that may bring fresh perspective to the role.

Salary and Other Compensation :

Applications will be accepted until August 9th, 2026.

The annual salary for this position is between $70,000 - $114,000 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.

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.