Job Description

Job Ttile : Mainframe z/OS System Programmer

Location: Phoenix, AZ

Work Mode: Onsite (Hybrid)

Job Description

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.

Location & Onsite Requirement

This role requires employees to live in or around the Phoenix, AZ area, and to be onsite 3 days a week. Candidates willing to relocate to the area will be considered.

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

About TekNinjas

TekNinjas is a global IT staffing partner placing skilled professionals with leading enterprises and system integrators across the US, Canada, UK, India, and the EU. We focus on the right fit - not just the fast fill - and stay engaged with our consultants well beyond the start date.

We're the right partners in your success.

TekNinjas is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Job Tags

Live in, Relocation, Weekend work, 3 days per week

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