Consulting Principal, AI Architect

About the role

As an Consulting Principal for AI & GenAI Platforms, you will lead client-facing AI transformation initiatives focused on generative AI, retrieval-augmented generation (RAG), and advanced data and AI platform solutions within highly regulated environments. You will be a valued member of Cognizant Consulting’s AI and Data practice and work collaboratively with clients, consulting leaders, architects, and delivery teams to design and deliver scalable, production-grade AI solutions.

You will partner with client stakeholders to translate business objectives into actionable AI use cases, solution roadmaps, and measurable outcomes. You will guide end-to-end solution delivery from discovery through implementation, ensuring AI systems are secure, compliant, and fit for regulated environments. You will collaborate with cross-functional consulting and engineering teams to integrate AI solutions with enterprise data platforms, cloud infrastructure, and core systems. You will also support business development activities by contributing to proposals, solutioning, statements of work, and client presentations related to AI and GenAI engagements.

What You Must Have To Be Considered

• 12+ years of experience across consulting, digital transformation, data engineering, or AI/analytics, with demonstrated experience delivering client-facing consulting engagements.
• Hands-on experience designing and delivering generative AI solutions, including RAG architectures, vector databases, and modern AI platforms.
• Strong knowledge of cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, or GCP) and enterprise data platforms such as Snowflake, Databricks, or Microsoft Fabric.
• Proven ability to work directly with client stakeholders to define requirements, manage solution delivery, and communicate complex technical concepts clearly.
• Experience operating within regulated industries such as financial services, healthcare, or insurance.

What You Should Have To Be Considered

• Familiarity with AI governance, evaluation frameworks, and responsible AI practices, including model risk, bias, and explainability considerations.
• Experience contributing to consulting proposals, solution architectures, and go-to-market initiatives.
• Exposure to MLOps or LLMOps practices, including CI/CD, monitoring, and model lifecycle management.
• Strong collaboration skills and the ability to mentor junior consultants or technical team members.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to engage both technical and non-technical audiences.

Compensation

The annual base salary for this position is between $122,400 – $194,000, depending on experience and qualifications. This position is eligible for Cognizant’s discretionary annual incentive program, based on performance and subject to the terms of Cognizant’s applicable plans.