Mainframe Developer

Title: Mainframe Developer

Location: Buffalo, NY
Duration: Full Time / Permanent Hire
Salary: Negotiable

Summary:

We are seeking a skilled and detail-oriented Mainframe Developer to join our technology team. The ideal candidate will have strong experience in mainframe application development, batch scheduling, file handling, database integration, ETL processing, and production support. This role requires hands-on expertise in COBOL, DB2, MQ, IBM MVS, scheduling tools like Automic/CA7, and cross-platform data integration involving Oracle, SQL Server, and Unix/Linux environments.
The candidate will be responsible for development, maintenance, enhancement, and support of critical enterprise applications, ensuring reliability, performance, and operational efficiency across mainframe and distributed systems

Job Description:

Design, develop, enhance, and maintain mainframe-based applications using COBOL.
Develop and support batch processing jobs using Automic / CA7 scheduler.
Work with DB2 databases for query development, data retrieval, performance tuning, and troubleshooting.
Integrate applications with IBM MQ for messaging and inter-system communication.
Perform mainframe file handling activities including dataset processing, file transfers, and reconciliation.
Support and maintain SFTP-based file transmission processes between internal and external systems.
Develop and execute SQL queries for data validation, analysis, and troubleshooting.
Work within IBM MVS environments for job execution, debugging, and operational support.
Participate in ETL processes involving data extraction, transformation, and loading across systems.
Collaborate with teams supporting Oracle and SQL Server databases for cross-platform data integration.
Use UNIX/Linux commands and scripting for process support, automation, and file operations.
Analyze production incidents, identify root causes, and implement long-term fixes.
Support release deployments, batch validation, and post-implementation monitoring.
Create and maintain technical design documents, operational procedures, and support documentation.
Work closely with business analysts, QA teams, infrastructure teams, and application support teams.

Technical Skills
Strong hands-on experience with the following:
COBOL development
DB2 database development and query execution
IBM MQ
IBM MVS / Mainframe environment
Automic / CA7 scheduler
Mainframe file handling
SFTP file transmission
SQL development and query execution
UNIX/Linux commands
ETL processing
Oracle and/or SQL Server integration/support

Core Competencies:
Mainframe application development and support
Batch job scheduling and monitoring
Production support and incident resolution
Data integration and reconciliation
Cross-platform system interaction
Performance tuning and troubleshooting

Qualifications:

Bachelor s degree in computer science, Information Technology, Engineering, or related field.
5 10 years of experience in mainframe development and support.
Experience in enterprise environments such as banking, financial services, insurance, or healthcare is preferred.
Familiarity with SDLC, release management, and production support processes.
Knowledge of Agile methodology is a plus.

Preferred / Additional Skills:
Exposure to JCL and batch job troubleshooting
Experience with VSAM, flat files, and file reconciliation processes
Knowledge of shell scripting for automation/support tasks
Familiarity with integration between mainframe and distributed platforms
Experience with change management and deployment tools
Understanding of enterprise scheduling dependencies and operational workflows

Soft Skills:
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
Excellent verbal and written communication
Ability to work independently and in cross-functional teams
Strong attention to detail and ownership mindset
Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
Proactive approach to issue resolution and process improvement