Sr. Consultant - Mainframe

Cognizant

5 - 10 years

Chennai

Posted: 18/06/2025

Job Description

Practice Consultant/Lead – Legacy Modernization Architect

Location: India
Experience: 12–15+ years

Overview: Seeking experienced Legacy Modernization Architect Consultants with deep expertise in mainframe-based systems, legacy platform transformations, and enterprise-grade modernization initiatives. Ideal candidates will have hands-on experience in solutioning and technical leadership for projects transitioning from legacy platforms to modern technology stacks including cloud-native and hybrid models.

Responsibilities:

  • Support in the Definition and evolving of the practice vision, offerings, and strategic roadmap
  • Lead As-IS assessments of legacy environments (application, infra, data)
  • Create target state architecture, roadmap, and modernization approach
  • Evaluate rehosting, refactoring, rearchitecting, and replatforming options
  • Provide architectural governance across design and delivery lifecycle
  • Build and mentor high-performing consulting and architecture teams
  • Represent the practice in analyst briefings, webinars, and leadership forums
  • Drive IP and accelerator development for modernization services

Qualifications:

  • Deep understanding of legacy systems (Mainframe, monoliths, ERP) and proven engagements showcasing Mainframe skills and Digital transformation experience and expertise
  • Proven track record in application modernization, cloud transformation, and EA
  • Lead end-to-end solutioning for legacy transformation engagements
  • Analyze mainframe-based ecosystems and define modernization strategies (Rehost, Refactor, Re-architect, Replace)
  • Guide technical implementation including re-platforming, containerization, microservices, and integration
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams including business SMEs, architects, developers, and DevOps
  • Define migration patterns and manage technical risks during transitions
  • Engage with client stakeholders across industries (Insurance, Finance, Healthcare, Retail, etc.)
  • Strong understanding of TOGAF, cloud-native patterns, and DevOps
  • Experience in application portfolio rationalization and cloud migration
  • Familiar with frameworks like TOGAF, ArchiMate, and AWS/Azure/GCP architectures
  • Excellent leadership, storytelling, and stakeholder engagement skills

Required Skill Sets:

  • 8–10 years of hands-on experience in Mainframe-based applications (COBOL, JCL, VSAM, DB2, CICS, IMS)
  • Experience as Technical Lead/Architect in large modernization projects
  • Deep knowledge of modernization tools and platforms (e.g., Micro Focus, Raincode, IBM z/OS Connect, AWS Mainframe Modernization)
  • Expertise in API enablement, middleware, data migration, and system decomposition
  • Familiarity with containerization (Docker, Kubernetes), CI/CD pipelines, and service mesh
  • Strong understanding of at least one cloud provider (AWS, Azure, or GCP)
  • Experience in multi-domain projects (Insurance, Banking/Finance, Healthcare, Retail, etc.)
  • Excellent client interaction, communication, and documentation skills

Preferred Certifications:

  • TOGAF or equivalent Enterprise Architecture certification
  • Cloud certifications (AWS Architect, Azure Solutions Architect, etc.)

Nice to Have:

  • Exposure to business rule extraction tools
  • Experience in Agile/Scrum delivery and DevOps integration

About Company

Cognizant is a global leader in technology and consulting services, helping businesses transform their operations through digital solutions. Specializing in IT services, including software development, business process outsourcing, and consulting, Cognizant supports clients across industries such as healthcare, financial services, manufacturing, and retail. With a focus on innovation, Cognizant assists organizations in modernizing their technology, improving operational efficiency, and enhancing customer experiences. Headquartered in the U.S., it is consistently ranked among the most admired companies in the world and is a member of the NASDAQ-100.

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