Job Title: Mainframe IMS System Programmer
Location: Remote
Job Type: Contract-to-Hire
Duration: 6 Months
Position Overview
We are seeking a highly skilled Mainframe IMS System Programmer to support and manage IBM z/OS IMS environments in a mission-critical banking or financial services environment. The role is responsible for ensuring the stability, availability, performance, and security of IMS DB and IMS TM subsystems.
Responsibilities
Install, configure, and maintain IMS DB and IMS TM subsystems on IBM z/OS.
Perform version upgrades, maintenance, and patching to ensure system currency and stability.
Manage and maintain IMS system definitions, including DBDs, PSBs, ACB libraries, and control regions.
Configure and tune buffer pools, parameters, and system resources to optimize performance.
Monitor IMS database and transaction performance, proactively identifying and resolving performance bottlenecks.
Troubleshoot and resolve system issues by analyzing logs, dumps, abends, and database errors.
Support IMS utilities, backup/recovery processes, and disaster recovery testing.
Ensure seamless integration with z/OS, DB2, MQ, CICS, TCP/IP, and Sysplex environments.
Implement and follow ITIL/ServiceNow change management processes for all system updates.
Maintain accurate technical documentation and system configurations.
Required Qualifications
7+ years of experience with IBM z/OS operating system.
Hands-on experience with IMS DB and IMS TM administration.
Deep knowledge of DBD/PSB/ACB management.
Experience with IMS control regions and transaction processing.
Knowledge of buffer pool tuning and performance optimization.
Experience with IMS utilities, backup/recovery, and disaster recovery strategies.
Strong troubleshooting skills, including dump analysis, log analysis, and abend resolution.
Experience integrating IMS with DB2, CICS, MQ, and distributed systems.
Familiarity with RACF security controls for IMS environments.
Experience with SMP/E, JCL, TSO/ISPF, and SDSF.
Understanding of Sysplex and high-availability architectures.
Preferred Qualifications
Exposure to IMS modernization or API enablement, including z/OS Connect and REST integration.
Experience with monitoring tools such as OMEGAMON, MainView, and RMF.
Knowledge of automation tools such as REXX, Ansible, and z/OSMF workflows.
Experience with DB control, TCP/IP, z/OS Connect, and Assembler routines.
Experience with IMS routines and exit routines is a significant plus.