Sr. Java Backend Engineer (Microservices & Kafka)

Job Summary We are looking for a Senior Backend Java Engineer (Microservices & Kafka) to join our engineering team and play a key role in building scalable, high-performance backend systems. This role focuses on developing event-driven, microservices-based architectures using modern Java frameworks and messaging technologies. About The Role In this role, you will design and develop reactive microservices using Java 8+ and frameworks such as Spring Boot or Vert.x, while leveraging Kafka and asynchronous communication patterns to build robust event-driven systems. You will work closely with cross-functional teams in an Agile environment, contributing to both software development and system design decisions. This position requires a self-driven engineer who thrives in fast-paced, evolving environments, is comfortable with ambiguity, and enjoys experimenting with new approaches. You will be expected to take ownership of your work, support high-availability platforms, and collaborate effectively with teammates while maintaining strong communication and a team-first mindset. Please note, this role is not able to offer visa transfer or sponsorship now or in the future* In This Role You Will Design, develop, and maintain scalable backend services using Java 8+ (or Kotlin) Build reactive, microservices-based applications using frameworks such as Spring Boot, Vert.x, Micronaut, or Quarkus Develop and implement event-driven architectures leveraging Kafka, webhooks, and asynchronous APIs Collaborate with cross-functional teams in an Agile environment to deliver high-quality software solutions Contribute to application design, architecture decisions, and technical best practices Ensure high availability, performance, and reliability of mission-critical platforms Work with cloud-based and distributed systems to support scalable solutions Participate in code reviews, testing, and continuous improvement initiatives Communicate effectively with stakeholders and provide constructive feedback and technical insights Take ownership of deliverables while working in ambiguous and fast-paced environments Promote a collaborative, team-first culture and continuously explore new technologies and approaches Work Model 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 2-3 days a week in a client or Cognizant office in Phoenix, AZ. Regardless of your working arrangement, we are here to support a healthy work-life balance though our various wellbeing programs. Please note, this role is not able to offer visa transfer or sponsorship now or in the future* Required Qualifications Strong hands-on experience with Java 8+ (Kotlin is a plus) Proven experience building microservices-based architectures Hands-on experience with at least one modern framework: Spring Boot (preferred) Vert.x, Micronaut, or Quarkus Experience with event-driven systems and messaging technologies such as Kafka Solid experience designing and developing RESTful APIs Strong understanding of application design and software development best practices Experience working with relational databases (PostgreSQL, Oracle, or equivalent) Exposure to NoSQL databases such as Couchbase or similar Experience working in Agile development environments Proven ability to support high-availability, mission-critical systems Familiarity with cloud-based and distributed system architectures Strong communication skills, with the ability to collaborate and provide constructive feedback Self-motivated and able to work effectively in fast-paced, ambiguous environments Preferred Qualifications Experience with reactive programming or frameworks (e.g., Vert.x)Exposure to cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP)Familiarity with containerization and orchestration tools (Docker, Kubernetes)Experience with performance tuning and caching strategiesKnowledge of AI/ML concepts, including LLMs, RAG, vector databases, or prompt engineeringExperience with Python for scripting, automation, or data-related tasksUnderstanding of advanced design patterns for distributed systems (e.g., Circuit Breaker, Saga)Strong communication skills and ability to contribute to technical leadership discussions Salary And Other Compensation Applications will be accepted until September 23rd, 2026 The annual salary for this position ranges from $69,000 – $125,000, depending on experience and qualifications. This position is also eligible for Cognizant’s discretionary annual incentive program, based on performance and subject to applicable plan terms. Benefits Cognizant offers the following benefits for this role (subject to eligibility): Medical/Dental/Vision/Life Insurance Paid Holidays & Paid Time Off 401(k) plan with contributions Long‑term/Short‑term Disability Paid Parental Leave Employee Stock Purchase Plan Disclaimer The salary, benefits, and compensation information listed above is accurate as of the posting date. Cognizant reserves the right to modify this information at any time, in accordance with applicable law.