ROLE OVERVIEW
We are seeking a Lead AI/ML Engineer and AI Strategy Leader to drive the design, deployment, and governance of next-generation autonomous AI systems at scale across R&D. This is a senior individual contributor and strategic leadership role combining deep technical expertise in machine learning, agentic architectures, and industrial AI with the ability to define and execute enterprise-wide AI roadmaps.
The successful candidate will architect production-ready agentic systems, lead cross-functional AI initiatives across both research and development, and serve as a trusted technical advisor to senior stakeholders. This role is ideal for someone who thrives at the intersection of rigorous data science and high-impact business transformation.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Agentic AI Architecture & Development
• Design and deploy enterprise-grade Agentic AI systems using LLM tool-calling, multi-step planning, and autonomous reasoning across structured (SQL) and unstructured (PDF, documents) data sources.
• Architect dual-agent and multi-agent frameworks including Data Orchestration Agents and Procurement/Supply Chain Optimization Agents
• Develop modular, reusable GenAI platforms enabling cross-functional teams to extend and repurpose core AI capabilities.
• Implement knowledge graphs and advanced NLP pipelines to power intelligent enterprise search and decision support.
• Lead development of predictive analytics models for asset performance degradation, survivability analysis, and maintenance optimisation across large industrial portfolios.
AI Strategy & Stakeholder Leadership
• Define and own the enterprise AI strategy and multi-year roadmap for AI/ML capabilities across R&D functions.
• Lead AI adoption initiatives, overcoming organisational resistance through explainability techniques and structured change management.
• Represent the AI function in steering committees, vendor evaluations, and industry partnerships.
Data Engineering & MLOps
• Architect and manage scalable Data Orchestration Layers integrating heterogeneous data sources
• Implement robust MLOps pipelines on Databricks (SQL Warehouse, Endpoints, MlFlow), ensuring data governance, model versioning, and production reliability.
• Design ETL workflows, data quality frameworks, and model health monitoring strategies to sustain AI performance post-deployment.
• Govern stochastic LLM outputs through structured validation, guardrails, and endpoint management.
Team Leadership & Delivery
• Drive end-to-end delivery of AI solutions using Agile / SAFe methodologies (Jira, Confluence), from ideation and prototyping through to production.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
Education & Experience
• 5+ years of applied AI/ML experience in industrial, life sciences, energy, or complex enterprise environments.
• Demonstrated track record of delivering production AI systems with measurable business impact (cost savings, risk reduction, process efficiency).
Technical Skills
• Expert proficiency in Python (Pandas, NumPy, Scikit-Learn, TensorFlow, PyTorch, XGBoost).
• Deep expertise in Generative AI: LLM integration (OpenAI API), prompt engineering, RAG architectures, agentic frameworks (n8n or equivalent).
• Strong command of Databricks ecosystem: SQL Warehouse, Endpoints, MLflow, Volumes, Spark SQL.
• Experience with cloud platforms (AWS S3, Azure) and enterprise data systems (Salesforce, SharePoint, IBM Maximo CMMS).
• Proficiency in reinforcement learning frameworks, mixture density networks, and physics-informed modelling.
• Familiarity with industrial data systems: PI ProcessBook / OPC historians, SCADA, CMMS platforms.
• AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner or higher
• SAFe Practitioner / Certified Scrum Product Owner (CSPO) or equivalent Agile certification.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
• Experience in pharma R&D with exposure to GxP, FDA, or equivalent compliance frameworks.
• Background in embedded systems, industrial control, or HVAC/process engineering providing domain depth for industrial AI applications.
• Proficiency with explainability frameworks (SHAP, LIME) and responsible AI governance practices.
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.