Technical Program Manager – AI & Data Platforms

About The Role
We are seeking a highly experienced
Technical Program Manager
to lead complex, high‑impact initiatives across AI/ML, data platforms, and enterprise technology. In this role, you will drive end‑to‑end program execution, ensure cross‑functional alignment, and orchestrate scalable delivery across engineering, product, analytics, infrastructure, and go‑to‑market teams.
The ideal candidate thrives in fast‑paced, ambiguous environments, brings strong technical fluency, and excels at translating sophisticated AI and data capabilities into structured execution plans. This role requires exceptional leadership, communication, and the ability to influence senior stakeholders without direct authority.
In This Role, You Will

• Lead end‑to‑end program and launch execution, including readiness assessments and managing Go/No‑Go decisions.
• Facilitate executive war rooms, steering committees, and cross‑functional alignment forums.
• Manage risks, dependencies, and delivery across global, multidisciplinary teams.
• Drive Agile/SAFe execution practices, including PI Planning and governance cadences.
• Own $1M+ program portfolios, balancing priorities, scope, timelines, and resources.
• Translate AI/ML, MLOps, data, and platform capabilities into business‑aligned narratives.
• Partner closely with engineering and data teams to ensure execution aligns with technical realities.
• Build and scale effective program frameworks, operating models, and delivery playbooks.

Work Model
At Cognizant, we strive to provide flexibility wherever possible, and we are committed to supporting a healthy work‑life balance through our various wellbeing programs. Based on this role’s business requirements, this is a
Work‑From‑Office
position requiring
onsite presence
in a
client or Cognizant office in San Jose, CA
.
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:
A few of our roles may require in-person interviews at Cognizant offices or client locations, depending on project or client needs.
What You Need To Have To Be Considered

• 15+ years of experience in Technical Program Management, Program Leadership, or Consulting.
• Demonstrated success delivering enterprise‑scale, high‑visibility programs.
• Strong understanding of AI/ML programs, MLOps, and data product lifecycles.
• Expertise in Agile/SAFe, including dependency management and risk mitigation.
• Exceptional executive‑level communication and the ability to influence without authority.
• Bachelor’s degree required; MBA and PMP certification strongly preferred.

This will help you stand out

• Experience leading programs across AI, ML, data platforms, or cloud engineering environments.
• Proven ability to build and operationalize scalable program frameworks.
• Strong ability to align senior stakeholders across product, engineering, data, and executive leadership.
• A track record of delivering programs in fast‑paced, high‑growth, or highly regulated environments.

Salary And Other Compensation
The annual salary for this position is between $75,600 to $120,000 depending on experience and other qualifications of the successful candidate.
This position is also eligible for Cognizant’s discretionary annual incentive program, based on performance and subject to the terms of Cognizant’s applicable plans.
Benefits
Cognizant offers the following benefits for this position, subject to applicable eligibility requirements:

• Medical/Dental/Vision/Life Insurance
• Paid holidays plus Paid Time Off
• 401(k) plan and contributions
• Long-term/Short-term Disability
• Paid Parental Leave
• Employee Stock Purchase Plan

Disclaimer
The salary, other compensation, and benefits 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.

• Please note, this role cannot offer visa transfer or sponsorship now or in the future\*