Mainframe Systems Programmer

Mainframe Systems Programmer - Contract or CTP - Remote - $60.00-$70.00/hr.

The final salary or hourly wage, as applicable, paid to each candidate/applicant for this position is ultimately dependent on a variety of factors, including, but not limited to, the candidate's/applicant's qualifications, skills, and level of experience as well as the geographical location of the position.

Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Sponsorship not available.

Our client is seeking a Mainframe Systems Programmer for a Remote Opportunity.

Role Description
We are seeking a seasoned Senior Mainframe Systems Programmer to support and modernize a highly critical Z environment spanning two data centers. You will play a key role in system stability, modernization, and our transition to Z17 and z/OS 3.1, while partnering with deeply tenured SMEs as the organization plans for long-term sustainability.

Systems Programming
Install, configure, and maintain z/OS (2.5 ? 3.1 migration)
Manage LPARs, system components, and SMP/E maintenance
Administer CICS, RACF, JES2, VTAM, TCP/IP, and IBM subsystems
Support ISV tools including Rocket Software products
Mainframe Storage
Manage DS8000, TS7700/VTS, and related storage environments
Configure and support DFSMS, DFHSM, OAM, CSM, GKLM
Oversee backup, restore, archiving, and DR processes
Modernization & Infrastructure
Support Z15 and Z16 platforms; assist in Z17 migration
Lead IPLs, hardware migrations, and data center cutovers
Coordinate DR/HA with infrastructure teams
Automation & Performance
Develop automation using REXX
Maintain and enhance SCLM workflows
Analyze performance across CPU, memory, DASD, and I/O
Troubleshoot complex systems and CICS issues
Collaboration & Knowledge Transfer
Work closely with deeply tenured SMEs to capture critical knowledge
Support succession planning and future MSP transitions
Mentor junior engineers and assist application development teams

Skills & Requirements

8-15+ years as a z/OS Systems Programmer
Strong experience with:
z/OS 2.x / 3.x
LPAR configuration
SMP/E
CICS
JES2, RACF, DFSMS
REXX & SCLM
Experience with Z15/Z16/Z17 hardware
Familiarity with Rocket Software and other ISV tools
Proven track record leading OS/hardware upgrades
Strong documentation skills & ability to work remotely
Bachelor's degree (or equivalent experience)
Proficiency in z/OS, JCL, CICS, DB2, and mainframe utilities
IBM certifications are a plus
Experience in financial services or high availability environments
Exposure to MSP transitions
Knowledge of z/OSMF, DR/BCP
Experience mentoring or supporting junior team members

Benefits/Other Compensation

This position is a contract/temporary role where Hays offers you the opportunity to enroll in full medical benefits, dental benefits, vision benefits, 401K and Life Insurance ($20,000 benefit).

Why Hays?

You will be working with a professional recruiter who has intimate knowledge of the industry and market trends. Your Hays recruiter will lead you through a thorough screening process in order to understand your skills, experience, needs, and drivers. You will also get support on resume writing, interview tips, and career planning, so when there's a position you really want, you're fully prepared to get it.

Nervous about an upcoming interview? Unsure how to write a new resume?

Visit the Hays Career Advice section to learn top tips to help you stand out from the crowd when job hunting.

Hays is committed to building a thriving culture of diversity that embraces people with different backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences. We believe that the more inclusive we are, the better we serve our candidates, clients, and employees. We are an equal employment opportunity employer, and we comply with all applicable laws prohibiting discrimination based on race, color, creed, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, or gender identity), age, national origin or ancestry, physical or mental disability, veteran status, marital status, genetic information, HIV-positive status, as well as any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law. One of Hays' guiding principles is 'do the right thing'.
We also believe that actions speak louder than words.
In that regard, we train our staff on ensuring inclusivity throughout the entire recruitment process and counsel our clients on these principles. If you have any questions about Hays or any of our processes, please contact us.

In accordance with applicable federal, state, and local law protecting qualified individuals with known disabilities, Hays will attempt to reasonably accommodate those individuals unless doing so would create an undue hardship on the company. Any qualified applicant or consultant with a disability who requires accommodation in order to perform the essential functions of the job should call or text .

Drug testing may be required; please contact a recruiter for more information.

#LI-DNI