AI Engineer (Java & Spring Boot)

Company: Cognizant Technology Solutions
Location: Naperville
Posted on: March 31, 2026

Job Description:

We are hiring a Senior Associate – AI Engineer to design, build, and support AI?enabled enterprise applications using a modern Java / Spring Boot technology stack. This role is ideal for a hands?on engineer who has experience working across the AI Development Lifecycle (AI?DLC) with associated AI first development practices and enjoys translating AI capabilities into reliable, scalable production systems. You will work closely with cross?functional teams—including data scientists, architects, and product partners—to deliver AI solutions that solve real business problems. In this role, you will: AI Engineering & AI?DLC · Contribute across the AI Development Lifecycle, including data preparation, model integration, deployment, and operational support. · Integrate machine learning and/or generative AI models into backend services and enterprise platforms. · Support model deployment, versioning, monitoring, and performance evaluation in production environments. · Apply best practices for Responsible AI, including security, privacy, and reliability considerations. Software Development (Java / Spring Boot) · Design and develop backend services and APIs using Java and Spring Boot. · Build RESTful services that expose AI capabilities to consuming applications. · Write clean, maintainable, and testable code following industry best practices. · Troubleshoot and resolve issues related to performance, scalability, and reliability. Cloud & DevOps · Deploy and support applications in cloud environments (AWS, Azure, or GCP). · Participate in CI/CD pipelines, containerization (Docker), and basic Kubernetes deployments. · Collaborate with platform and DevOps teams to ensure production readiness of AI solutions. Collaboration · Work with architects, data scientists, and senior engineers to implement solution designs. · Participate in code reviews, design discussions, and agile ceremonies. · Communicate technical concepts clearly to both technical and non?technical stakeholders. 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 days a week in a client or Cognizant office in Naperville, IL or Phoenix, AZ or Bridgewater, NJ. 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 · Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field (or equivalent experience). · 3–6 years of professional software development experience. · Strong hands?on experience with Java and Spring Boot. · Exposure to the AI/ML development lifecycle in a real?world or production setting. · Experience integrating AI/ML models via APIs or backend services. · Understanding of REST APIs, microservices, and distributed systems. · Experience working in cloud environments (AWS, Azure, or GCP). · Familiarity with CI/CD, Docker, and modern development practices. · Strong problem?solving skills and the ability to work collaboratively in a team These will help you stand out · Experience with Generative AI or LLM?based solutions (e.g., embeddings, prompt?based systems). · Exposure to MLOps concepts and tools (model monitoring, versioning, deployment automation). · Working knowledge of Python for AI or data?related tasks. · Experience with messaging or streaming platforms (Kafka, RabbitMQ). · Familiarity with Agile / Scrum development methodologies. Were excited to meet people who share our mission and can make an impact in a variety of ways. Dont 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. *Please note, this role is not able to offer visa transfer or sponsorship now or in the future* LI-NC1 Salary and Other Compensation: Applications will be accepted until 4/3/26. The annual salary for this position is between $61,000 - $108,000 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. 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 worlds 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. 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.

Keywords: Cognizant Technology Solutions, Arlington Heights , AI Engineer (Java & Spring Boot), IT / Software / Systems , Naperville, Illinois