About the role

As a Mainframe Developer, you will make an impact by designing, maintaining, and enhancing critical mainframe-based systems that support high‑volume, high‑availability business operations. You will be a valued member of the Technology & Engineering team and collaborate closely with architects, business analysts, QA teams, and client stakeholders to deliver efficient, scalable, and modernized mainframe solutions.

In this role, you will:

• Lead analysis, design, development, and maintenance of COBOL, JCL, CICS, and DB2-based applications.
• Troubleshoot complex system issues, ensuring performance, stability, and reliability of mainframe environments.
• Work with cross-functional teams to understand requirements and translate them into technical solutions.
• Optimize and modernize legacy code to improve performance, maintainability, and integration with distributed systems.
• Participate in code reviews, documentation, and best-practice governance across development teams.

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 per week in a client or Cognizant office in São Paulo, SP. Regardless of your working arrangement, we are here to support a healthy work-life balance through 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

• 10+ years of hands-on experience with COBOL, JCL, CICS, and DB2 in enterprise mainframe environments.
• Strong experience with batch, online applications, and high-volume transaction processing.
• Proven ability to analyze, debug, and optimize complex legacy codebases.
• Experience working with change management and version-control tools in mainframe environments.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with technical and non-technical stakeholders, providing clear communication and technical guidance.

These will help you stand out

• Experience with modernization initiatives such as API integration, migration to distributed platforms, or cloud integration.
• Familiarity with REXX, VSAM, Endevor, Control-M, or equivalent tools.
• Prior work in financial services, insurance, or similarly regulated industries.
• Knowledge of DevOps practices in mainframe contexts (CI/CD pipelines, automation, testing frameworks).
• Ability to mentor junior developers and contribute to technical leadership.

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.

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 world's 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.