Lead Mainframe Developer

About the Role

As a Lead Mainframe Developer you will make an impact by leading the development, support, and modernization of critical mainframe applications supporting enterprise banking operations. You will be a valued member of the delivery team, working closely with client stakeholders, offshore teams, architects, business analysts, and production support teams to ensure the stability, performance, and continuous improvement of mission-critical systems.

In This Role, You Will:

• Lead the analysis, design, development, testing, implementation, and support of mainframe applications on the IBM z/OS platform.
• Collaborate with business and technical stakeholders to understand requirements, assess impacts, and deliver effective solutions.
• Develop and maintain applications using COBOL, DB2, JCL, and VSAM technologies while ensuring adherence to coding and quality standards.
• Coordinate offshore delivery teams, review deliverables, and drive successful production implementations.
• Investigate and resolve production incidents, job failures, and application issues while recommending operational improvements and preventive measures.

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 3 days per week in a client or Cognizant office in Toronto, Ontario. 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.

*Please note that this position is not eligible for visa transfer or sponsorship now or at any time in the future*

What You Need to Have to Be Considered

• 8+ years of hands-on experience in mainframe development and support.
• Strong expertise in COBOL, JCL, DB2, and VSAM within IBM z/OS environments.
• Proven experience analyzing, designing, coding, testing, documenting, and supporting enterprise applications.
• Experience leading technical teams and serving as an independent contributor on complex initiatives.
• Strong troubleshooting skills with experience resolving production incidents, job failures, and operational issues.
• Understanding of secure development practices, compliance requirements, and production support processes.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with onshore and offshore teams in a client-facing environment.
• Flexibility to participate in rotational support activities when business needs require.

These Will Help You Stand Out

• Experience with CICS and IBM MQ (MQ Series).
• Background in banking or financial services environments.
• Experience supporting large-scale technology transformation initiatives.
• Ability to influence design decisions with a strong focus on customer experience and operational excellence.
• Experience driving continuous improvement and implementing best practices across application support and delivery teams.

Applications will be accepted until October 9, 2026

Salary and Other Compensation

The annual salary for this position is between CAD $71,000 - $112,000, depending on experience, qualifications, and other factors permitted by law. Compensation will be determined based on the successful candidate's skills, experience, and location.

Benefits

Cognizant offers the following benefits for employees in Canada, subject to eligibility requirements:

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Life and disability insurance
• Employee assistance program (EAP)
• Registered retirement savings and savings programs
• Paid vacation and company holidays
• Wellbeing and mental health programs
• Learning and professional development opportunities
• Employee recognition programs

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.