Project Manager

We are seeking an experienced Project Manager to lead cross‑functional teams and drive strategic initiatives from conception through successful completion. This role is critical for ensuring projects are delivered on time, within budget, and meet quality standards while aligning with organizational objectives. The ideal candidate will possess strong leadership skills, excellent communication abilities, and a proven track record of managing complex projects across multiple departments. You will serve as the primary point of contact for stakeholders and be responsible for coordinating resources, managing timelines, and mitigating risks throughout the project lifecycle. About Cognizant’s CIS Practice Cognizant’s CIS (Cognizant Infrastructure Services) Practice is a global leader in providing IT infrastructure services. We deliver innovative solutions to optimize and transform IT infrastructure, ensuring business agility and operational efficiency. Our services include cloud computing, data center management, network services, and cybersecurity. We focus on understanding client needs and delivering customized solutions to drive business success. In this role, you will: Strategic Planning & Project Initiation Define project scope, objectives, and deliverables in collaboration with stakeholders Develop comprehensive project plans with clear timelines, milestones, and resource requirements Conduct feasibility studies and risk assessments for new project initiatives Align projects with broader business strategy and organizational goals Team Leadership & Management Lead cross‑functional project teams of 5-15 members across various departments Coordinate and motivate team members to achieve project objectives Facilitate team meetings, resolve conflicts, and maintain productive team dynamics Delegate tasks effectively based on team members' skills and availability Coach and mentor team members to enhance their professional development Budget & Resource Management Monitor expenditures and track costs against approved budgets Allocate resources efficiently across multiple concurrent projects Negotiate contracts with vendors and external service providers Ensure optimal utilization of human and material resources Risk Management & Quality Assurance Identify potential project risks early and develop mitigation strategies Implement contingency plans to minimize impact on project outcomes Establish quality standards and testing protocols for deliverables Conduct regular project reviews and performance assessments Ensure compliance with organizational standards and industry regulations Stakeholder Communication & Reporting Provide regular status updates to executive leadership and key stakeholders Facilitate stakeholder meetings and ensure alignment on project priorities Communicate project changes, impacts, and recommendations effectively Prepare comprehensive project reports and executive dashboards Manage client relationships and expectations throughout project duration Process Improvement & Documentation Analyze project performance metrics and identify optimization opportunities Implement best practices and standardized processes across project teams Maintain detailed project documentation and lessons learned repositories Contribute to the development of project management methodologies Support organizational change management initiatives What you’ll need to succeed (required skills): Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Engineering, Management, or related field Project Management Professional (PMP) certification highly preferred Additional certifications in Agile, Scrum, or PRINCE2 advantageous Minimum 3-5 years of project management experience Proficiency in project management software (MS Project, Asana, Jira, etc.) Familiarity with data analysis and reporting tools Understanding of Agile and Waterfall methodologies Excellent organizational and time management skills Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple priorities Adaptability and flexibility in dynamic environments Strong negotiation and conflict resolution skills Customer service orientation and stakeholder management Note: Sponsorship is not being offered for this role. Applications will be accepted until Jan 26 2026. Compensation: Total annual compensation of $99,000-$115,000. 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 Medical/Dental/Vision/Life Insurance Paid holidays plus Paid Time Off 401(k) plan and contributions Long-term/Short-term Disability Paid Parental Leave 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. 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. #J-18808-Ljbffr