Principal Architect – Gen AI & Agentic Systems (Hybrid)
Company: Cognizant
Location: Minneapolis
Posted on: January 5, 2026
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Job Description:
Principal Architect – Gen AI & Agentic Systems Job ID: 66200831
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 1/08/2026 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!
Keywords: Cognizant, Minneapolis , Principal Architect – Gen AI & Agentic Systems (Hybrid), IT / Software / Systems , Minneapolis, Minnesota
