Software Developer

As a Software Developer supporting the IBM Confluent product on IBM Z, you will contribute to the design, development, integration, and support of distributed streaming capabilities running on IBM Z platforms.

This role focuses on Java-based product development, with targeted use of C for lower-level components, performance, or platform integration, working at the intersection of modern open-source technologies and enterprise-grade IBM Z systems., * Design, develop, test, and maintain Java-based components supporting Confluent capabilities on IBM Z platforms.

• Contribute to product functionality across zLinux and z/OS, including platform enablement, integration, and runtime behaviour.
• Work closely with architects, product management, and cross-platform teams to align Confluent capabilities with IBM Z requirements.
• Diagnose and resolve complex issues across distributed systems, JVMs, operating systems, and networking layers.
• Participate in Agile development, CI/CD pipelines, code reviews, and continuous improvement activities.
• Support enterprise customers through defect analysis, troubleshooting, and collaboration with support teams.

• Hands on experience with software development and agile practices.
• Strong Java development experience (primary language), including building and debugging complex backend services.
• Hands-on experience developing or supporting software on Linux environments, ideally Linux on IBM Z (s390x).
• Familiarity with z/OS concepts and integration points (datasets, USS, system services), even if not a systems programmer.
• Experience with distributed systems, messaging, or streaming architectures (e.g., Kafka-style systems).
• Proficiency with Git-based source control and CI/CD pipelines (e.g., Jenkins, Tekton).Strong analytical and debugging skills across multi-layered systems.Comfortable working across global, cross-time-zone teams with strong written and verbal communication skills.

Preferred technical and professional experience

• Experience with Apache Kafka, Confluent Platform, or similar streaming technologies.
• Knowledge of IBM Z architecture and platform characteristics (availability, scalability, security).
• Experience running Java workloads on zLinux and/or z/OS JVMs.

At IBM Software, we transform client challenges into solutions. Building the world's leading AI-powered, cloud-native products that shape the future of business and society. Our legacy of innovation creates endless opportunities for IBMers to learn, grow, and make an impact on a global scale. Working in Software means joining a team fueled by curiosity and collaboration. You'll work with diverse technologies, partners, and industries to design, develop, and deliver solutions that power digital transformation. With a culture that values innovation, growth, and continuous learning, IBM Software places you at the heart of IBM's product and technology landscape. Here, you'll have the tools and opportunities to advance your career while creating software that changes the world.