Consulting Principal - AI Architect

00069056642

Date published Oct 13 2026
Location Charlotte / United States
Job category Consulting
Work model Hybrid

About Cognizant Consulting

Cognizant Consulting is more than Cognizant’s consulting practice—we’re a global community of experts dedicated to helping clients reimagine their business. Blending deep industry knowledge with advanced technology capabilities, we deliver transformative solutions to Fortune 500 clients.

About the role

As a Consulting Principal – AI Architect, you will make an impact by designing and delivering advanced AI solutions focused on LLM-based systems, context engineering, and agentic workflows. You will be a key member of the AI & Data Consulting team and will collaborate closely with clients, delivery leads, and engineering teams to build scalable, enterprise-grade AI applications..

In this role, you will:

Architect and implement enterprise-grade LLM solutions, including context architectures, memory models, and prompt engineering strategies
Design and optimize RAG pipelines (retrieval, embeddings, re-ranking) with measurable evaluation frameworks for quality and performance
Lead development of agentic workflows and AI-powered applications, integrating APIs, tools, and enterprise systems with strong guardrails
Partner with business and technology stakeholders to connect AI solutions with enterprise platforms (ERP, CRM, data platforms) ensuring security and data integrity
Drive technical leadership by mentoring teams, guiding solution design, and delivering high-impact client outcomes while ensuring scalability, reliability, and cost optimization

Work model

We strive to provide flexibility wherever possible. Based on this role’s business requirements, this position requires travel as needed and a hybrid work model, with time spent in a client or Cognizant office in the United States. We are committed to supporting a healthy work-life balance through our wellbeing programs.

The working arrangements for this role are accurate as of the date of posting and may change based on project and client requirements.

What you must have to be considered

10+ years of experience in software engineering, AI/ML, or consulting with strong expertise in Python-based production systems
Proven hands-on experience with RAG architectures, vector databases, and LLM frameworks (e.g., LangChain, LlamaIndex, or equivalent)
Strong expertise in prompt engineering, context design, and structured output patterns, including mitigation of prompt injection risks
Experience designing and deploying agentic systems and AI integrations across enterprise environments
Demonstrated leadership in consulting or client-facing roles, with the ability to drive delivery, mentor teams, and align AI solutions to business outcomes

These will help you succeed

Experience integrating AI solutions with enterprise platforms, identity systems (SSO/IAM), and secure data environments
Familiarity with evaluation and observability tools (e.g., RAG evaluation frameworks, monitoring pipelines)
Knowledge of enterprise SDLC practices, including CI/CD, governance, and production support
Exposure to distributed systems and scalable architectures in cloud environments
Advanced degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or related field; research or thought leadership in AI/NLP is a plus

We're excited to meet people who share our mission and can make an impact in a variety of ways. Don't 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.

Compensation

$165,000 - $219,750
This position is eligible for Cognizant’s discretionary annual incentive program, based on performance and subject to the terms of Cognizant’s applicable plans

Benefits

Medical, dental, vision and life insurance
401(k) plan and contributions
Employee stock purchase plan
Employee assistance program
10 paid holidays plus PTO
Paid parental leave and fertility assistance
Learning and development certifications and programs

Additional employment information
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.

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.

Applicants for US based positions must be currently authorized to work for any employer in the United States. The company is unable to provide employment-based immigration sponsorship for US based positions.

If you have a disability that requires reasonable accommodation to search for a job opening or submit an application, please email CareersNA2@cognizant.com for roles based in the Americas or CareersIndia2@cognizant.com for roles based in India.

About Cognizant:
Cognizant (Nasdaq: CTSH) is an AI Builder and technology services provider, bridging the gap between AI investment and enterprise value by building full-stack AI solutions for our clients. Our deep industry, process and engineering expertise enables us to build an organization’s unique context into technology systems that amplify human potential, drive tangible outcomes and keep global enterprises ahead in a fast-changing world. See how at cognizant.ai or @cognizant.

Benefits that help you thrive and grow

Our benefits program is built with you in mind—so you can enjoy a fulfilling, balanced and healthy life.

Financial wellbeing

We regularly review market data to ensure compensation reflects the value you bring. Your benefits extend beyond pay and may include retirement plans, financial education, etc.

Physical and mental health

We empower you to prioritize your wellbeing through paid time off, flexible working where possible, healthcare plans, counselling, our Mental Health Allyship program and more.

Your career, your way

With 350,000+ roles at Cognizant, you’ll have opportunities explore new technologies, industries and locations—and build the skills you need to grow your career.

Real-world impact

Think about the biggest brands you rely on. Chances are, they rely on us to help strengthen their business. Here, you’ll turn bold ideas into solutions that improve lives everywhere.

Your path to Cognizant

Here’s what you can expect from our hiring process. Please keep in mind that it may vary by role and location. Explore our FAQs to learn more.

Step 1: Apply to the right opportunity

Find an open role that matches your skills and career goals and show us why you’re the person for the job. Don’t see the right opportunity? Consider joining our Talent Community.

Step 2: Connect with your recruiter

If one of our recruiters sees a fit, they’ll set up a short intro call to learn more about you and how your experiences and skills match the role.

Step 3: Show off your skills

If you and our team would like to continue the process, you’ll interview with our hiring team. Some roles may also require technical assessments and/or client interviews.

Step 4: Decision time

Our team will then review each candidates’ potential to succeed in the role. This step may take some time because we want to find the right fit for both you and us—but you can count on us to keep you updated.

Cognizant has one of the best learning ecosystems you can ask for. From sponsored certifications to training platforms to mentorship, we have all that we need to grow.

Debashish Mishra SAP MM Developer

Cognizant offers me more than a job; it offers a community. We support each other, collaborate across borders and celebrate wins together. If you’re looking for a culture that values flexibility, diversity and growth, this is the place to be.

Laura Reynaud Lead Counsel

When I first joined, I was quiet and hesitant to share my thoughts. The leadership programs and the mentoring I’ve received have helped me find my voice and grow as a leader.

Sujatha Gopalakrishnan Portfolio Delivery Lead

I’ve had the chance to work on impactful projects and shadow colleagues, all while getting involved in internal initiatives. The world is your oyster at Cognizant—you just need to take advantage of it!

Lucas Hoffman Consultant

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Consulting Principal - AI Architect