zOS System Programming

Job Title : zOS System Programming

Location : Remote

Duration : 6 + Months

Role Summary

We are seeking a highly experienced z/OS System Programmer to lead mainframe system programming initiatives, ensuring stability, performance, and continuous modernization of enterprise z/OS environments. The role demands strong technical depth combined with leadership capabilities to drive service excellence, automation, and operational transformation.

Key Responsibilities

System Programming & Platform Management

• Lead installation, customization, and maintenance of z/OS operating system environments
• Manage core components including MVS, JES2, Sysplex, and LPAR configurations
• Administer and maintain HCD/IODF definitions for hardware and I/O configuration
• Perform system-level tuning and optimization to ensure high availability and performance

Maintenance & Upgrades

• Plan and execute z/OS upgrades, RSU maintenance, and patching cycles
• Manage SMP/E for software installation, maintenance, and CSI handling
• Oversee lifecycle management of ISV products, including upgrades and vendor coordination

Incident & Problem Management

• Provide L3 support for critical incidents, ensuring timely resolution of Sev1/Sev2 issues
• Lead Root Cause Analysis (RCA) and implement preventive actions
• Ensure adherence to SLA commitments and service quality standards

High Availability, DR & Resilience

• Support Disaster Recovery (DR) planning and execution, including drills and failover validation
• Ensure system readiness for business continuity through Sysplex resilience and redundancy
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams for infrastructure risk mitigation

Automation & Operational Excellence

• Drive automation initiatives to improve operational efficiency and reduce manual effort
• Implement and maintain system automation frameworks for monitoring and recovery
• Continuously improve processes aligned to ITIL best practices

Leadership & Stakeholder Management

• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to junior system programmers
• Collaborate with application teams, infrastructure teams, and vendors for solution delivery
• Participate in customer discussions, audits, and transformation initiatives

Required Skills & Expertise

• Strong experience in z/OS System Programming

Deep understanding of:

• MVS, JES2
• Sysplex, LPAR

HCD / IODF configuration

• Hands-on expertise in:
• SMP/E
• z/OS Upgrade & RSU Maintenance

ISV Product Maintenance

Proficiency in:

• Incident Management & RCA

Disaster Recovery (DR) support

System Automation tools/methodologies

Experience & Qualifications

• 10+ years of experience in z/OS system programming
• Experience in enterprise mainframe environments (Banking/Insurance preferred)
• Exposure to high-availability and mission-critical systems