Job Title: Mainframe ZOS System Programmer
Duration: 6 months contract to hire
Location: Phoenix, AZ (3days onsite, 2days WFH)
Overview: The Mainframe z/OS System Programmer is responsible for the installation, customization, maintenance, and optimization of IBM z/OS operating systems and associated system software. This role ensures the stability, performance, security, and availability of mission-critical mainframe environments, supporting large-scale enterprise applications.
Responsibilities:1. System Administration & Maintenance: - Install, configure, and maintain IBM z/OS operating systems.
- Perform system upgrades, migrations (e.g., z/OS version upgrades), and apply maintenance (PTFs, APARs, RSUs).
- Manage IPL processes, system initialization, and configuration (PARMLIB, PROCLIB, SYS1 datasets).
- Monitor system health and performance using tools such as RMF, SMF, SDSF.
2. Subsystem Support:- Install, configure, and support key subsystems:
- JES2/JES3
- TSO/E, ISPF
- USS (Unix System Services)
- RACF (in coordination with security teams)
- Work closely with DB2, CICS, IMS, MQ, and Storage teams for integration and support.
3. Performance & Capacity Management:- Analyse system performance metrics and implement tuning improvements.
- Support capacity planning and resource optimization (CPU, memory, I/O).
- Evaluate hardware upgrades (e.g., CPU/MIPS growth, z-series enhancements).
- Problem Management & Troubleshooting:
- Diagnose and resolve system-related issues, including system abends and failures.
- Perform root cause analysis for outages and major incidents.
- Work with IBM and vendors on problem determination and fixes.
4. Automation & Scheduling:Develop and maintain automation using tools such as:
- System REXX, CLIST
- SA z/OS, NetView
- Support job scheduling tools (e.g., CA7, Control-M where applicable).
5. Security & Compliance: - Support system-level security configurations aligned with RACF policies.
- Ensure compliance with audit, regulatory, and enterprise security standards.
- Assist in vulnerability remediation and patching activities.
6. Change & Release Management: - Execute changes through ITIL-based processes (ServiceNow or equivalent).
- Prepare implementation plans, backout procedures, and validation steps.
- Support weekend maintenance windows and IPL activities.
7. Documentation:- Create and maintain technical documentation, including:
- System configurations
- Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
- Disaster Recovery plans
Required Qualifications:- 5+ years of experience in mainframe system programming (z/OS).
- Strong hands-on knowledge of z/OS, JES2/JES3, TSO/ISPF, SDSF, USS/OMVS, SMP/E.
- Experience with large-scale environments (multi-LPAR, Parallel Sysplex).
- Knowledge of vendor products (Broadcom, IBM, BMC).
- IBM certifications (preferred but not mandatory).
Preferred Experience:- Exposure to mainframe modernization initiatives (APIs, hybrid cloud integration).
- Experience with z/OSMF and modern interfaces.
- Knowledge of DevOps practices on mainframe (CI/CD pipelines).
- Exposure to Zowe and APIs on z/OS.