Kong API Developer - Manager - 67468071

About the role:

As a Kong API Developer, you will lead the design and delivery of enterprise-grade APIs and microservices, ensuring secure, scalable, and compliant solutions in the Payer domain. Beyond technical execution, you will provide strategic direction, mentor teams, and drive innovation in API management practices. This role requires deep expertise in Java, cloud deployment, and Kong technologies, combined with leadership skills to guide projects and people.

In this role, you will:

• Define and oversee scalable technology architectures aligned with business goals.

• Lead cross-functional collaboration to ensure seamless integration of solutions.

• Drive adoption of Docker and Kubernetes for optimized deployment and performance.

• Champion the use of Kong OSS, Kong Insomnia, and Kong Enterprise for enterprise API management.

• Establish best practices for REST/API development, testing, and documentation.

• Oversee authentication and authorization frameworks with Security Protocols and JSON Web Tokens.

• Mentor and guide development teams, fostering technical excellence and innovation.

• Conduct regular assessments to identify improvement opportunities and implement corrective actions.

• Engage stakeholders to define project scope, objectives, and deliverables.

• Monitor system performance and lead optimization initiatives.

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 hybrid position requiring 3 days a week in a client or Cognizant office in Eagan, MN.

What you need to have:

• Extensive experience in Java-based API and microservice development.

• Proven expertise with Docker and Kubernetes in enterprise environments.

• Advanced proficiency with Kong technologies (OSS, Insomnia, Enterprise).

   

• Deep understanding of Security Protocols and JSON Web Tokens.

• Experience mentoring and leading technical teams.

These will help you stand out:

• Track record of delivering large-scale API solutions in complex environments.

• Ability to translate business requirements into strategic technical roadmaps.

• Strong leadership presence and stakeholder management skills.

• Familiarity with emerging API management practices and cloud-native innovations.

Salary and Other Compensation

Applications will be accepted until 03/10/2026.

The annual salary for this position is between $110,000 - $130,000 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.

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

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.