Job description

About the role As a Data Scientist – Demand Forecasting , you will make an impact by developing, optimizing, and operationalizing advanced forecasting models that support strategic business planning across North America. You will be a valued member of the Data Science team and work collaboratively with business stakeholders, data engineers, analytics teams, and technology partners to drive forecast accuracy and actionable insights **Must have 12 + years of experience to be considered** In this role, you will: • Develop, enhance, and deploy demand forecasting models to support business planning and decision-making. • Improve forecast accuracy, reduce bias, and drive consistency across multiple markets and business segments. • Support quarterly forecasting cycles through model validation, business reviews, and stakeholder engagement. • Perform model experimentation, testing, monitoring, and ongoing performance optimization. • Build scalable data science solutions using Python, PySpark, Databricks, and cloud-based technologies while maintaining efficient data pipelines and documentation. 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 2–3 days per week in a client or Cognizant office in Plano, Texas . 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. What you need to have to be considered • Proven experience developing and deploying production-grade Data Science and Machine Learning solutions. • Strong hands-on experience with Databricks , including PySpark, SQL, and Delta Lake . • Advanced proficiency in Python for data science, analytics, and integration with APIs and external services. • Experience building and orchestrating data pipelines using Azure Data Factory (ADF) . • Strong understanding of cloud-based data platforms, preferably within the Microsoft Azure ecosystem. • Experience working with large-scale datasets and distributed data processing frameworks. • Knowledge of CI/CD practices for Databricks deployments and releases. • Experience with Azure DevOps and/or GitHub Actions for automation and deployment workflows. • Strong analytical, problem-solving, and independent decision-making capabilities. • Excellent communication skills with the ability to engage effectively with both technical and business stakeholders. These will help you stand out • Experience supporting demand forecasting, supply chain planning, or sales forecasting initiatives. • Knowledge of scenario modeling, hierarchy reconciliation, and long-range forecasting methodologies. • Experience monitoring model performance and implementing continuous model improvement strategies. • Familiarity with MLOps best practices and model operationalization in enterprise environments. • Ability to translate complex technical concepts into business-friendly insights and recommendations. 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. *Please note, this role is not able to offer visa transfer or sponsorship now or in the future* Salary and Other Compensation: Applications will be accepted until October 04, 2026 The annual salary for this position is between $ 115,000 - $ 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. 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. About Cognizant: Cognizant (Nasdaq: CTSH) is an AI Builder and technology services provider, bridging the gap between AI investment and enterprise value by building full-stack AI solutions for our clients. Our deep industry, process and engineering expertise enables us to build an organization’s unique context into technology systems that amplify human potential, drive tangible outcomes and keep global enterprises ahead in a fast-changing world. See how at cognizant.ai or @cognizant. Additional employment information Compensation 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. Applicants may be required to attend interviews in person or by video conference. In addition, candidates may be required to present their current state or government issued ID during each interview. Cognizant is an equal opportunity employer. Your application and candidacy will not be considered based on race, color, sex, religion, creed, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, veteran status or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. If you have a disability that requires reasonable accommodation to search for a job opening or submit an application, please email CareersNA2@cognizant.com for roles based in the Americas or CareersIndia2@cognizant.com for roles based in India.

Requirements

Must-haves

Must have 12 + years of experience to be considered**
Develop, enhance, and deploy demand forecasting models to support business planning and decision-making.
Improve forecast accuracy, reduce bias, and drive consistency across multiple markets and business segments.
Support quarterly forecasting cycles through model validation, business reviews, and stakeholder engagement.
Perform model experimentation, testing, monitoring, and ongoing performance optimization.
Build scalable data science solutions using Python, PySpark, Databricks, and cloud-based technologies while maintaining efficient data pipelines and documentation.
What you need to have to be considered
Proven experience developing and deploying production-grade Data Science and Machine Learning solutions.
Strong hands-on experience with Databricks , including PySpark, SQL, and Delta Lake .
Advanced proficiency in Python for data science, analytics, and integration with APIs and external services.
Experience building and orchestrating data pipelines using Azure Data Factory (ADF) .
Strong understanding of cloud-based data platforms, preferably within the Microsoft Azure ecosystem.
Experience working with large-scale datasets and distributed data processing frameworks.
Knowledge of CI/CD practices for Databricks deployments and releases.
Experience with Azure DevOps and/or GitHub Actions for automation and deployment workflows.
Strong analytical, problem-solving, and independent decision-making capabilities.
Excellent communication skills with the ability to engage effectively with both technical and business stakeholders.
These will help you stand out
Experience supporting demand forecasting, supply chain planning, or sales forecasting initiatives.
Knowledge of scenario modeling, hierarchy reconciliation, and long-range forecasting methodologies.
Experience monitoring model performance and implementing continuous model improvement strategies.
Familiarity with MLOps best practices and model operationalization in enterprise environments.
Ability to translate complex technical concepts into business-friendly insights and recommendations.
Please note, this role is not able to offer visa transfer or sponsorship now or in the future*

Nice-to-haves

None flagged.

Application prep

Use the role’s language and application details while tailoring your materials.

Keywords to mirror

pythonrestmachine learningsqlazureci/cdai

Platform: cognizant
Effort: medium

Benefits

Benefits detected in the listing.

Dental

Vision

401(K)

Paid Time Off

Parental Leave