Mainframe System Programmer -w2

Position: Mainframe System Programmer
Remote Options Available
Employment Type: Full-Time / Contract-to-Hire

---

Job Summary
Smith Group USA is seeking an experienced Mainframe System Programmer to join our infrastructure team. The ideal candidate will possess deep expertise in z/OS systems programming, storage management, and mainframe subsystem support. You will be responsible for maintaining our critical mainframe environment, ensuring optimal performance, and supporting our business-critical applications.
Key Responsibilities
z/OS Systems Management

• Install, customize, and maintain z/OS operating systems and related software
• Perform SMP/E software maintenance including RECEIVE, APPLY, and ACCEPT of PTFs
• Manage PARMLIB settings and system configurations
• Implement Workload Manager (WLM) policies and performance tuning

Storage Management

• Configure and maintain DFSMS, DFHSM, and ACS routines
• Manage daily storage operations including backup, migration, and space management
• Support DASD and tape storage subsystems (IBM DS8000 series, EMC)
• Perform storage capacity planning and optimization

Subsystem Support

• Install and maintain IMS DB/DC subsystems including upgrades and patches
• Support DB2 z/OS database environments
• Administer CICS regions and related transaction processing systems
• Maintain MQ Series and other middleware products

Production Operations

• Provide 24x7 on-call support on a rotating basis
• Troubleshoot and resolve system abends and performance issues
• Participate in Change Advisory Board (CAB) meetings
• Develop and maintain disaster recovery procedures
• Execute semi-annual disaster recovery tests

Automation & Efficiency

• Develop REXX, CLIST, and JCL scripts for system automation
• Create and maintain operational documentation
• Implement automated monitoring and alerting solutions
• Streamline operational processes to improve efficiency

Required Qualifications

• 8+ years of hands-on mainframe systems programming experience
• Expert knowledge of z/OS, JCL, SMP/E, and TSO/ISPF
• Proven experience with DFHSM/DFSMS storage management
• Strong background in IMS DB/DC or DB2 z/OS subsystem support
• Proficiency in REXX or CLIST scripting for automation
• Experience with mainframe security (RACF, ACF2, or Top Secret)
• Knowledge of hardware configuration using HCD/IODF
• Demonstrated experience in production support and incident resolution

Technical Environment

• Operating Systems: z/OS, JES2, TSO/ISPF, SDSF
• Storage: DFSMS, DFHSM, IBM DS8000, EMC storage
• Databases: IMS DB/DC, DB2 z/OS
• Middleware: CICS, MQ Series, Connect:Direct
• Tools: SMP/E, IBM Utilities, Omegamon, MainView, CA products
• Scripting: REXX, JCL, CLIST

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with mainframe modernization initiatives
• Knowledge of z/OS Connect or API enablement
• Exposure to mainframe DevOps tools (IBM UrbanCode, CA products)
• Experience with performance monitoring tools (TMON, Omegamon)
• Certification: IBM System z, IMS, or DB2 certifications

Education & Certifications

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or related field
• Equivalent work experience accepted in lieu of degree
• Industry certifications preferred but not required