z/OS Systems Programmer
Position Description
We are seeking an experienced z/OS Systems Programmer to support, maintain, and enhance the client’s IBM mainframe environment. This role ensures the stability, security, and performance of mainframe systems across production, test, and development environments.
Position Job Duties
z/OS Installation & Maintenance: Install, configure, and maintain z/OS and related IBM system software; manage SMP/E processes and PTF/RSU installations; maintain PARMLIB/PROCLIB and plan IPLs.
Subsystem Administration: Support and tune subsystems such as JES2/JES3, CICS, DB2, MQ, and IMS; troubleshoot subsystem issues to ensure performance and availability.
Performance & Capacity Management: Perform workload analysis using RMF/SMF; tune WLM policies; provide recommendations to optimize CPU, memory, I/O, and storage utilization.
Storage & I/O Configuration: Work with storage teams on SMS/HSM and DASD management; support IODF/HCD updates; validate TS7700/VTL replication.
Security & Compliance: Support RACF rules and digital certificates; assist with STIG compliance and vulnerability remediation; ensure configurations align with regulatory standards.
Automation & Operations: Develop automation scripts (REXX, CLIST, SA/Ops); support job scheduling; integrate with monitoring and alerting tools.
Incident & Change Management: Provide Tier III support for escalated issues; conduct root cause analysis (RCA); participate in change management and DR tests.
Documentation & Collaboration: Create technical documentation and SOPs; collaborate with cross-functional teams; assist in modernization and cloud integration initiatives.
Required Qualifications
Active Secret Clearance
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
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
Preferred Qualifications
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)
Details
Job Title: z/OS Systems Programmer
Location: Annapolis, MD 21403
Security Clearance Requirement: Active Secret Clearance
Assignment Type: Full-time
Salary Range: $150,000 to $170,000 annually.