Mainframe Systems Programmer

IMS System ProgrammerThe IMS System Programmer is responsible for the installation, customization, maintenance, and support of IBM’s Information Management System (IMS) environment on the z/OS mainframe platform. The role ensures high availability, performance, and security of IMS subsystems, coordinates system upgrades, and provides technical expertise for application teams using IMS databases and transaction managers.Roles & Responsibilities:System Installation & MaintenanceInstall, configure, and maintain IMS (DB and TM) subsystems, tools, and associated products (e.g., IMS Connect, IMS Tools, ODBM, BMPs).Perform system upgrades, maintenance (APARs/PTFs), and migrations to newer IMS versions.Manage SMP/E environments for maintenance and software installation.Ensure compatibility between IMS, z/OS, DB2, CICS, and related products.Performance & Capacity ManagementMonitor IMS system performance and tune parameters for optimal throughput and response times.Conduct capacity planning and growth analysis to ensure scalability and reliability.Utilize tools like OMEGAMON, Mainview, or RMF for performance tracking and problem diagnosis.System Support & TroubleshootingProvide Level 3 technical support for IMS incidents and system abends.Diagnose and resolve IMS database recovery, log, and buffer issues.Collaborate with IBM support (PMRs, cases) for complex issues and patches.Database Administration SupportSupport IMS DBA and application teams with DBD, PSB, and ACBGEN processes.Maintain IMS catalog and RECON datasets; ensure proper backup/recovery strategy.Manage IMS utilities such as DFSURGU0, DFSURWF0, and HALDB tools.Automation & IntegrationDevelop and maintain automation scripts using REXX, CLIST, or JCL for operational efficiency.Integrate IMS with monitoring tools, scheduling systems, and middleware (MQ, Connect).Support modernization initiatives such as IMS Open Database or REST API integration.Disaster Recovery & ComplianceParticipate in DR planning, testing, and documentation of IMS recovery procedures.Ensure adherence to change management, audit, and compliance standards.Documentation & CollaborationMaintain detailed system configuration and maintenance documentation.Provide mentorship to junior system programmers and cross-train peers.Work closely with database administrators, application developers, and infrastructure teams.Other skillsExperience with IMS integration to distributed systems (IMS Connect, JDBC, ODBM).Familiarity with z/OSMF, z/OS Connect EE, or API enablement initiatives.Knowledge of mainframe storage management (DFSMS, VSAM).Strong problem-solving, debugging, and performance analysis skills.