Mainframe z/OS Systems Programmer

Job Description

Job Description

Overview

CTG is seeking to fill a Mainframe z/OS Systems Programmer position for our client.

Location: Phoenix, AZ metro area (Hybrid working model)
Duration: 6 months with option to convert after 6 months
Citizenship: US Citizens, Green Card Holders, and other EAD holders (no visa dependent candidates)

Role Overview:
Experienced Mainframe z/OS Systems Programmer responsible for the installation, customization, maintenance, and optimization of IBM z/OS operating systems and associated system software. This role ensures the stability, performance, security, and availability of mission-critical mainframe environments, supporting large-scale enterprise applications.

Key Responsibilities:

• System Administration & Maintenance:

  • Install, configure, and maintain IBM z/OS operating systems.
  • Perform system upgrades, migrations (e.g., z/OS version upgrades), and apply maintenance (PTFs, APARs, RSUs).
  • Manage IPL processes, system initialization, and configuration (PARMLIB, PROCLIB, SYS1 datasets).
  • Monitor system health and performance using tools such as RMF, SMF, SDSF.

  Subsystem Support:

  • Install, configure, and support key subsystems:
  • JES2/JES3
  • TSO/E, ISPF
  • USS (Unix System Services)
  • RACF (in coordination with security teams)
  • Work closely with DB2, CICS, IMS, MQ, and Storage teams for integration and support.

  Performance & Capacity Management:

  • Analyze system performance metrics and implement tuning improvements.
  • Support capacity planning and resource optimization (CPU, memory, I/O).
  • Evaluate hardware upgrades (e.g., CPU/MIPS growth, z-series enhancements).

  Problem Management & Troubleshooting:

  • Diagnose and resolve system-related issues, including system abends and failures.
  • Perform root cause analysis for outages and major incidents.
  • Work with IBM and vendors on problem determination and fixes.

  Automation & Scheduling:

  • Develop and maintain automation using tools such as:
  • System REXX, CLIST
  • SA z/OS, NetView
  • Support job scheduling tools (e.g., CA7, Control-M where applicable).

  Security & Compliance:

  • Support system-level security configurations aligned with RACF policies.
  • Ensure compliance with audit, regulatory, and enterprise security standards.
  • Assist in vulnerability remediation and patching activities.

  Change & Release Management:

  • Execute changes through ITIL-based processes (ServiceNow or equivalent).
  • Prepare implementation plans, backout procedures, and validation steps.
  • Support weekend maintenance windows and IPL activities.

  Documentation:

  • Create and maintain technical documentation, including:
  • System configurations
  • Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
  • Disaster Recovery plans

Required Skills:

• IBM z/OS systems programming expertise
• Strong knowledge of JES2/JES3, RACF, VTAM, TCP/IP, USS, TSO/ISPF
• SMP/E maintenance and mainframe software lifecycle management
• Performance tuning and capacity planning
• REXX, JCL, CLIST scripting/automation
• Strong troubleshooting and incident resolution skills
• Experience supporting large enterprise mainframe environments

Experience:

• 5+ years of experience as a Mainframe z/OS Systems Programmer or similar role
• Experience in large enterprise environments (banking, insurance, healthcare, government, retail, transportation preferred)
• Proven experience with production support, system upgrades, and performance optimization

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Engineering, or related field preferred, or equivalent experience

Excellent verbal and written English communication skills and the ability to interact professionally with a diverse group are required.

CTG does not accept unsolicited resumes from headhunters, recruitment agencies, or fee based recruitment services for this role.

To Apply: To be considered, please apply directly to this requisition using the link provided. Kindly forward this to any other interested parties. Thank you!