• Compute Architect

    Cognizant (Chesapeake, VA)


    About the role

     

    As a Compute Architect, you will make an impact by defining and evolving enterprise compute architecture across on-premises, cloud, and hybrid environments. This role owns platform standards, drives large-scale modernization, and ensures compute platforms are secure, resilient, and scalable to support mission-critical workloads. You will be a valued member of the Cloud Infrastructure and Security team and work collaboratively with the Engagement Delivery Lead.

    In this role, you will:

    • Define, design, and maintain enterprise compute architectures across data centers and cloud platforms.

    • Establish and govern standards, reference architectures, and configuration baselines for compute, virtualization, and hyperconverged platforms.

    • Lead modernization initiatives including cloud migration, hyperconverged infrastructure (HCI), and infrastructure automation.

    • Oversee lifecycle activities for compute platforms, including patching, upgrades, capacity planning, and technology refreshes.

    • Architect and support hybrid compute workloads across Azure, AWS, and/or GCP, integrating on-premises and cloud environments.

    • Develop automation for provisioning, configuration, and maintenance using PowerShell, Python, Ansible, Terraform, and Azure Automation.

    • Act as the highest escalation point for complex compute incidents, leading root-cause analysis and long-term remediation.

    • Mentor engineers, lead compute-related initiatives, and communicate architectural decisions to technical and non-technical stakeholders.

    Work Model

    At Cognizant, we strive to provide flexibility wherever possible, and we are here to support a healthy work-life balance though our various wellbeing programs. Based on this role’s business requirements, this is an onsite position requiring 5 days a week in a client or Cognizant office in Chesapeake, Virginia.

     

    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:

    • 7+ years of experience in enterprise compute engineering or architecture roles within large, complex environments.

    • Expert-level experience with Windows Server and Linux platforms (RHEL, Ubuntu, SUSE).

    • Deep expertise in virtualization technologies including VMware vSphere/ESXi, Hyper-V, and KVM.

    • Strong hands-on experience with hyperconverged infrastructure platforms such as Nutanix, VMware vSAN, and Azure Stack HCI.

    • Proven experience architecting and supporting cloud compute services across Azure, AWS, and/or GCP.

    • Advanced proficiency in automation and scripting using PowerShell, Python, Ansible, Terraform, and Azure Automation.

    • Strong understanding of identity and access management (Active Directory, Azure AD, LDAP).

    • Experience with backup and recovery solutions, monitoring, and observability platforms.

    • Demonstrated ability to lead complex troubleshooting efforts and enterprise-level architecture discussions.

    These will help you stand out:

    • Experience leading enterprise-scale cloud migrations or data center modernization programs.

    • Exposure to container platforms, orchestration, and modern application hosting models.

    • Familiarity with security and compliance frameworks such as CIS benchmarks, NIST, or ISO 27001.

    • Industry certifications in Azure, AWS, VMware, Nutanix, or related architecture domains.

    • Experience influencing long-term platform strategy and technology roadmaps.

     

    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

    Please note, this role is not able to offer visa transfer or sponsorship now or in the future

    Cognizant is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.