Senior Backend Java 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. The ideal candidate will bring strong hands-on experience in backend development, a solid understanding of distributed systems, and the ability to contribute to mission-critical platforms with high availability requirements.

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 strategies

Knowledge of AI/ML concepts, including LLMs, RAG, vector databases, or prompt engineering

Experience with Python for scripting, automation, or data-related tasks

Understanding of advanced design patterns for distributed systems (e.g., Circuit Breaker, Saga)

Strong communication skills and ability to contribute to technical leadership discussions

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 June 28 th , 2026 .

The annual salary for this position ranges from $70,000 – $120,000 , 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.