Mainframe System Programmer

Introduction

We are seeking an experienced z/VM and z/OS System Programmer to join our mainframe operations team. The successful candidate will own the design, installation, configuration, and ongoing maintenance of mainframe systems software and hardware. This role requires deep, hands-on expertise across z/OS and z/VM platforms to ensure mission-critical availability, security, and performance.

Responsibilities

z/OS responsibilities

• Design, install, configure, and maintain z/OS operating system and related subsystems.
• Administer and manage Unix System Services (USS) environments on z/OS.
• Perform software installation, maintenance, and upgrades using SMP/E.
• Manage hardware configuration using HCD and maintain IODF definitions.
• Conduct capacity planning and resource forecasting to meet business demands.
• Monitor, analyze, and tune system performance (RMF/CMF, SMF data) to optimize throughput and response times.
• Provide installation, configuration, and support for ISV products on z/OS.
• Manage system catalogs, DASD, and Storage Management Subsystem (SMS) policies.
• Collaborate with security teams on RACF administration, access control, and compliance.

z/VM responsibilities

• Install, configure, and maintain z/VM Control Program (CP) and CMS.
• Administer RACF security in z/VM environments to ensure access control and audit readiness.
• Manage Group Control System (GCS) for SNA communications and VTAM support.
• Configure and maintain Remote Spooling Communications Subsystem (RSCS) for print and file transfer.
• Administer VM/VTAM for SNA network connectivity within z/VM.
• Define and manage virtual machines, guest OS support, and resource allocation.
• Support Linux on IBM Z guests hosted on the z/VM hypervisor.

General responsibilities

• Troubleshoot and resolve complex system issues, outages, and performance bottlenecks.
• Develop and maintain runbooks, operational procedures, and system documentation.
• Participate in change management processes and perform maintenance during scheduled windows.
• Collaborate with application, network, storage, and security teams on cross-functional projects.
• Provide on-call support for critical mainframe incidents as required.
• Mentor and coach junior team members; contribute to team knowledge sharing.

Requirements

Required qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or related field — or equivalent practical experience.
• Minimum 5+ years’ hands-on experience as a Mainframe Systems Programmer working with both z/OS and z/VM.
• Proven expertise in z/OS systems programming (USS, SMP/E, HCD/IODF, performance management).
• Strong working knowledge of z/VM components: CP, CMS, RACF, GCS, RSCS, VM/VTAM.
• Experience installing and supporting ISV products on z/OS.
• Solid understanding of IBM Z hardware architecture and DASD management.
• Familiarity with JCL, REXX, and mainframe scripting for automation.
• Ability to interpret system logs, SMF records, and RMF/CMF performance reports.
• Strong troubleshooting, communication, and collaboration skills.

Preferred skills

• Experience with automation/configuration tools for mainframe environments.
• Exposure to Linux on IBM Z and containerized workloads on mainframe.
• Prior experience with high-availability and disaster recovery planning for mainframe systems.
• Certifications such as IBM Certified System Programmer (if applicable).