Mainframe CICS System Administrator

The Mainframe z/OS System Programmer is 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., 1. 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.

1. 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.

2. Performance & Capacity Management: * Analyse 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.

3. 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).

1. 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.

2. 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.

3. Documentation: * Create and maintain technical documentation, including: * System configurations * Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) * Disaster Recovery plans

• 5+ years of experience in mainframe system programming (z/OS).
• Strong hands-on knowledge of z/OS, JES2/JES3, TSO/ISPF, SDSF, USS/OMVS, SMP/E.
• Experience with large-scale environments (multi-LPAR, Parallel Sysplex).
• Knowledge of vendor products (Broadcom, IBM, BMC).
• IBM certifications (preferred but not mandatory).

Preferred Experience:

• Exposure to mainframe modernization initiatives (APIs, hybrid cloud integration).
• Experience with z/OSMF and modern interfaces.
• Knowledge of DevOps practices on mainframe (CI/CD pipelines).
• Exposure to Zowe and APIs on z/OS.