Mainframe IMS System Programmer - w2 (NOT a Developer)

Job Title: Mainframe IMS System Programmer
Job Summary
The Mainframe IMS (Information Management System) System Programmer is responsible for the installation, configuration, maintenance, and performance tuning of IMS subsystems on IBM z/OS environments. This role ensures that IMS databases and transaction managers operate efficiently, securely, and with high availability to support business-critical applications. The position requires close collaboration with application teams, database administrators, and operations staff.
Key Responsibilities
IMS Installation & Maintenance

• Install, configure, and upgrade IMS subsystems, including IMS DB and IMS TM.
• Apply PTFs, APARs, maintenance fixes, and service packs using SMP/E.
• Customize IMS parameters and system exits based on business requirements.

System Programming & Support

• Provide technical support for IMS system software, utilities, and tools.
• Troubleshoot IMS subsystem failures, abends, or performance issues.
• Manage IMS system definitions (MODBLKS, PSBs, DBDs, etc.).
• Ensure proper integration of IMS with CICS, DB2, MQ, and other mainframe subsystems.

Performance & Capacity Management

• Monitor IMS performance, transaction throughput, and database response times.
• Tune IMS buffer pools, logs, and region parameters for optimal performance.
• Conduct capacity planning and forecasting to meet business growth.

Database & Application Support

• Support IMS DB (Full Function and Fast Path databases) for high availability and reliability.
• Work with IMS DBAs and application teams to resolve performance and connectivity issues.
• Assist in database reorganization, recovery, and optimization activities.

Security & Compliance

• Implement IMS resource security via RACF/ACF2/TSS.
• Enforce compliance with SOX, IT and internal audit requirements.
• Maintain IMS security definitions and monitor access logs.

Disaster Recovery & Business Continuity

• Develop and maintain IMS backup and recovery strategies.
• Participate in disaster recovery (DR) planning, testing, and execution.
• Ensure RTO and RPO objectives for IMS workloads are consistently met.

Change & Release Management

• Support IMS software migrations, enhancements, and feature enablement.
• Document system configurations, changes, and operational guidelines.
• Follow ITIL processes for change, incident, and problem management.

Collaboration & On-Call Support

• Provide 24x7 on-call support for IMS-related issues.
• Work closely with application developers, DBAs, and infrastructure teams.
• Participate in major project deployments and production cutovers.

Required Skills & Qualifications

• Strong experience in IMS System Programming on z/OS (IMS DB & IMS TM).
• Hands-on knowledge of SMP/E for product installation and maintenance.
• Expertise in IMS system definitions, PSBs, DBDs, MODBLKS, and exits.
• Experience with IMS performance tuning, buffer management, and logging.
• Familiarity with IMS utilities (e.g., DFSMU, Database Recovery, DB Reorg).
• Strong problem-solving, debugging, and analytical skills.
• Good knowledge of JCL, REXX, and automation tools.

Preferred Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience as an IMS System Programmer on IBM mainframes.
• Experience with IMS Data Sharing and Parallel Sysplex environments.
• Knowledge of IMS integration with DB2, CICS, and MQ.
• Familiarity with monitoring tools (OMEGAMON for IMS, Mainview, etc.).
• ITIL certification or working knowledge of ITIL processes.
• Exposure to compliance frameworks (SOX, PCI-DSS, GDPR, etc.).