Associate Application Developer – Hybrid Cloud and Data

Introduction IBM Consulting Client Innovation Centers (CICs) are high-delivery, team-based environments where technologists work onsite to build real solutions for real clients. At CIC, associates collaborate closely with peers and experienced practitioners to design, build, test, and support enterprise applications at scale. Our delivery centers are built for learning through delivery, combining hands-on project work, structured training, mentorship, and teamwork to help early-career professionals develop strong technical foundations and grow with confidence. This role is ideal for individuals who enjoy problem-solving, learning quickly, and working in an in-person, collaborative delivery environment. Your Role And Responsibilities The Associate Application Developer at IBM is an entry-level role focused on contributing to the development, testing, and support of application components within larger systems. This role is not about knowing everything on day one. It is about having strong computer science fundamentals, demonstrated coding ability, and the curiosity and discipline to learn modern technologies in a professional delivery setting. Associates are expected to contribute to established delivery teams and take on greater responsibility as their skills and experience develop. As An Associate Application Developer, You Will • Write, test, and debug application code with guidance from senior developers • Contribute to application features, services, or integrations within an established system architecture • Participate in Agile delivery activities such as stand-ups, sprint planning, and retrospectives • Collaborate with teammates to understand requirements and help implement technical solutions • Apply secure coding, quality, and performance best practices • Use version control and development tools to deliver code in a team-based environment • Continue building technical and professional skills through training, mentorship, and hands-on delivery experience Practice-Specific Role Focus (Varies by Assignment) An Application Developer specializing in AWS Cloud FullStack should be able to work effectively in a modern, cloud-native environment. The cloud-native solutions are built around: microservices-based, modular designs; API-driven microservices; continuous release and improvement cycles via Agile; event-driven architectures; containerized workloads; serverless architectures; purpose-built databases; and Progressive Web Applications based on SPAs and microfrontends. AWS Full stack developers need to be proficient in running and managing services on AWS. An Application Developer with expertise in Red Hat Cloud Migration is responsible for designing and implementing cloud migration solutions. They should have a strong foundation in software architecture and experience with the Red Hat OpenShift platform. The developer should be proficient in using the IBM Garage Method for cloud migration and familiar with a range of migration tools and approaches for application, database, and integration components. Prior experience in Application Rehost, Replatform, Refactor, and Containerization scenarios is a definite advantage. Key responsibilities include executing migration strategies, assessing migration risks, and ensuring seamless integration of migrated applications with the existing infrastructure. This role requires a deep understanding of cloud computing concepts and the ability to map existing components to Red Hat OpenShift services. An Application Developer specializing in Azure Cloud Migration. Designs and builds Migration delivery engagement through advanced knowledge on Azure migration and modernization tools, including install, configure, and optimize as per engagement requirements. Knowledge on migration/modernization assessment & design w.r.t. the target Azure platform. Knowledge of application code refactoring (semantic and syntactical change). Knowledge on creating microservices, API, and converting workload into containers. Migration Tool specialist for Azure Platform Migration Discovery, Design, and Build (Migrate) practices. Advance knowledge on application code refactoring (semantic and syntactical change), including optimization and performance parameters. Advanced knowledge of technical and functional aspects to convert application code into a container through modular design. Should have knowledge and experience in migration to Azure for IaaS, PaaS, and SaaS. Comfortable with Azure Backup Service, Azure Site Recovery Service, Azure Database Migration Service, and Azure Cloud migration assessment tools like Data Migration Assistant, Azure App Service Migration Assistant. Depending On The Practice And Client Engagement, Associates May Focus On One Or More Of The Following Hybrid Cloud And Data Areas • AWS • Microsoft • IBM & Red Hat Additional tools, technologies, and training are provided by practice teams based on client and project needs. Work Location & Onsite Expectations This role is based in an IBM Client Innovation Center (CIC) and requires regular onsite presence at the assigned delivery center. Working onsite enables hands-on learning, real-time collaboration, and mentorship that support faster growth and stronger delivery outcomes. Travel may be required for up to 60% of the time or 3 days per week (home on weekends), based on project requirements. Preferred Education Master's Degree Required Technical And Professional Expertise These qualifications are essential for success in the role. Technical Fundamentals • Strong understanding of computer science fundamentals, including: • Object-oriented programming concepts • Data structures • Algorithms • Demonstrated ability to write and debug code in at least one primary programming language, such as Java, C#, Python, or JavaScript/TypeScript Applied Development Experience • Hands-on coding experience through coursework, academic projects, internships, labs, or personal projects • Familiarity with core software development concepts such as debugging, testing, and version control Programming Languages & Tools • Additional exposure to other languages, frameworks, or tools (e.g., Scala, SQL, Angular, React, or similar) through coursework or projects • Ability to apply core programming concepts across different languages and environments Candidates are not expected to be proficient in all listed technologies. Evaluation focuses on depth in at least one primary language and the ability to transfer foundational programming skills to new tools and frameworks. Web, Cloud, and Platform Exposure • Exposure through coursework or projects to web development concepts, APIs, or application frameworks (e.g., RESTful services, Spring Boot, .NET Core, Flask/Django, Node.js, or similar) • Exposure to cloud computing concepts—such as deploying, hosting, or integrating applications—on platforms such as AWS, Azure, Google Cloud, or IBM Cloud, through coursework, labs, or self-study Business & Delivery Skills • Ability to translate business or functional requirements into technical solutions, with guidance from senior team members • Comfortable working onsite in a collaborative, team-based environment • Strong willingness to learn, accept feedback, and continuously improve Preferred Technical And Professional Experience • Experience working across both frontend and backend components in academic or project-based environments • Familiarity with Agile or Scrum team practices • Exposure to databases such as MySQL, PostgreSQL, SQL Server, Oracle, DB2, or MongoDB • Exposure to analytics or data tools such as SPSS, SAS, Tableau, Hadoop, or Spark, depending on practice needs • Experience collaborating with others on team-based software projects Emerging Technology Awareness • Familiarity with generative AI concepts, including basic modeling approaches, responsible use, and ethical considerations, gained through coursework, projects, or self-study Education • Bachelor’s degree or equivalent practical experience in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related technical field (Candidates with other degrees will be considered if they demonstrate equivalent technical skills.)