z/OS Systems Programmer - Need Local Candidates

Job Title: z/OS Systems Programmer

Location: Baltimore, MD

Project Duration: Long Term Contract

Position Description:

We are seeking an experienced z/OS Systems Programmer to support, maintain, and enhance our IBM mainframe environment. The ideal candidate will have deep technical expertise in z/OS, subsystem configuration, system tuning, and operational support in a mission critical environment. This role ensures the stability, security, and performance of mainframe systems across production, test, and development environments.

Responsibilities

z/OS Installation, Configuration & Maintenance

• Install, configure, and maintain z/OS and related IBM system software
• Manage SMP/E processes, APPLY/ACCEPT workflows, and install PTFs/RSUs
• Maintain and update PARMLIB, PROCLIB, APF libraries, exits, and system parameters
• Plan and perform Initial Program Loads (IPLs)

Subsystem Administration

• Support and tune one or more subsystems such as:
• JES2/JES3
• CICS
• DB2
• MQ
• IMS
• Troubleshoot subsystem issues and ensure performance and availability

Performance & Capacity Management

• Perform workload analysis using RMF, SMF, and performance monitoring tools
• Tune WLM policies and system resources
• Provide recommendations to optimize CPU, memory, I/O, and storage utilization

Storage & I/O Configuration

• Work with storage teams on SMS/HSM, DASD management, and space allocation
• Support IODF/HCD updates for channel paths and devices
• Validate TS7700/VTL replication and connectivity

Security & Compliance

• Support RACF rules, class definitions, digital certificates, and SAF calls
• Assist with STIG compliance, audit responses, and vulnerability remediation
• Ensure system configurations align with organizational and regulatory standards

Automation & Operations Support

• Develop and maintain automation scripts (REXX, CLIST, SA/Ops)
• Support job scheduling and batch operations
• Integrate with monitoring, alerting, and automation tools

Incident, Problem & Change Management

• Provide Tier III support for escalated mainframe issues
• Conduct root cause analysis (RCA) and implement corrective actions
• Participate in change management, DR tests, and maintenance windows

Documentation & Collaboration

• Create and maintain technical documentation, SOPs, and architecture diagrams
• Collaborate with cross functional teams (storage, security, applications, cloud)
• Assist in modernization initiatives, cloud integration, and DevOps adoption

Qualifications

Required

• 8+ years of hands on experience as a z/OS Systems Programmer
• Deep understanding of z/OS internals, JES2/JES3, WLM, SMP/E
• Experience with one or more subsystems (CICS, DB2, IMS, MQ)
• Strong diagnostic and problem solving skills
• Experience with REXX, JCL, and mainframe utilities
• Knowledge of TCP/IP, VTAM, and network configuration on z/OS
• Experience with DR, backup/restore, and high availability environments

Preferred

• Experience with z/OSMF, Ansible for z/OS, and automation frameworks
• Exposure to security tools (zSecure) and RACF administration
• Mainframe experience in a cloud, MFaaS, or hosting environment
• Familiarity with federal compliance frameworks (NIST, STIG, RMF)
• Bachelor s degree in computer science, Information Systems, or equivalent experience

Key Attributes

• Strong analytical and troubleshooting skills
• Excellent communication and documentation abilities
• Ability to work in 24x7 mission critical environments
• Collaborative team player with a focus on quality and reliability
• Ability to adapt and learn emerging mainframe and automation technologies