Conversational AI Backend Engineer - Google Cloud/CX and Node.js

Job Summary We are seeking a highly experienced Conversational AI Backend Engineer - Google Cloud/CX and Node.js (8-10 years) .The ideal candidate will design, build, and maintain scalable back-end services, conversational workflows, and integrations that power enterprise-grade virtual agents across voice and chat channels. Key Responsibilities Node.js (Core Back-End Engineering) • Architect, develop, and maintain scalable RESTful and event-driven services in Node.js. • Design and optimize high-performance APIs to integrate with multiple systems (CRM, ERP, databases, 3rd party services). • Implement secure coding practices, including input validation, authentication/authorization, and API rate limiting. • Write unit/integration tests and enforce CI/CD best practices. • Optimize application performance for high throughput and low latency in production environments. • Collaborate with DevOps teams to containerize applications (Docker) and deploy on GCP services (Cloud Run, GKE, App Engine). Conversational AI (Dialogflow CX & Contact Center AI) • Design and implement conversational flows, intents, entities, and fulfillment logic in Dialogflow CX. • Develop custom webhooks (Node.js/Express) to handle complex business logic and dynamic responses. • Integrate Dialogflow CX with contact center platforms (e.g., Genesys, Avaya, Twilio, CCAI Insights). • Configure and manage Dialogflow CX environments (Dev, QA, Stage, Prod) and CI/CD pipelines for agent promotion. • Implement multi-turn, context-aware conversations with advanced Dialogflow CX features (event handlers, flows, routes). • Ensure seamless omnichannel support (chatbots, IVR/telephony, messaging platforms). • Work with NLP/NLU teams to continuously improve intent accuracy, training phrases, and entity recognition. Collaboration & Leadership • Work closely with product owners, designers, and conversation designers to translate requirements into natural conversational experiences. • Mentor junior developers in Node.js and conversational AI best practices. • Participate in code reviews, architecture discussions, and solution design sessions. • Provide technical leadership for conversational AI projects, ensuring scalability and maintainability. Required Qualifications • 8-10 years of hands-on experience with Node.js (Express.js, Nest.js, or equivalent frameworks). • Strong knowledge of JavaScript (ES6+), TypeScript, and asynchronous programming. • Proven experience in designing APIs (REST, GraphQL) and integrating with external services. • 3+ years of experience with Google Dialogflow CX (building, maintaining, and deploying production IVR Voice agents) • Experience with GCP services (Cloud Functions, Cloud Run, Pub/Sub, Firestore/BigQuery). • Solid understanding of webhooks, middleware, and backend fulfillment for chat/voice bots. • Familiarity with contact center solutions and CCAI (Contact Center AI) integrations. • Experience with Git, CI/CD pipelines, and agile development methodologies. • Excellent problem-solving, debugging, and performance tuning skills. Nice to Have (Preferred) • Experience with other conversational AI platforms (Amazon Lex, Microsoft Bot Framework, Rasa). • Knowledge of speech-to-text / text-to-speech integrations (Dialogflow ES/CX with TTS/STT APIs). • Familiarity with Kubernetes, Docker, Terraform, Cloud Build. • Experience with analytics & monitoring tools for conversational AI (Dialogflow Insights, BigQuery analysis). • Strong understanding of security & compliance (PII handling, GDPR, HIPAA). Soft Skills • Strong communication skills to collaborate with cross-functional teams. • Ability to lead and mentor junior engineers. • Problem-solving mindset with focus on delivering scalable enterprise solutions. • Passion for conversational AI, NLP, and user experience design. Salary and Other Compensation: The annual salary for this position is between $138,000/Year to $162,000/Year depending on the experience and other qualifications of the 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. The Cognizant community: We are a high caliber team who appreciate and support one another. Our people uphold an energetic, collaborative and inclusive workplace where everyone can thrive. • Cognizant is a global community with more than 300,000 associates around the world. • We don't just dream of a better way - we make it happen. • We take care of our people, clients, company, communities and climate by doing what's right. • We foster an innovative environment where you can build the career path that's right for you. About us: Cognizant is one of the world's leading professional services companies, transforming clients' business, operating, and technology models for the digital era. Our unique industry-based, consultative approach helps clients envision, build, and run more innovative and efficient businesses. Headquartered in the U.S., Cognizant (a member of the NASDAQ-100 and one of Forbes World's Best Employers 2024) is consistently listed among the most admired companies in the world. Learn how Cognizant helps clients lead with digital at www.cognizant.com 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. Disclaimer: 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. Apply tot his job