Mainframe Programmer

Z/OS System Programmer /Mainframe System ProgrammerImmediate need for a talented z/OS System Programmer /Mainframe System Programmer. This is a 12+ months contract opportunity with long-term potential and is located in Saint Louis MO (Remote).Key Responsibilities:System Programming & Platform ManagementLead installation, customization, and maintenance of z/OS operating system environmentsManage core components including MVS, JES2, Sysplex, and LPAR configurationsAdminister and maintain HCD/IODF definitions for hardware and I/O configurationPerform system-level tuning and optimization to ensure high availability and performanceMaintenance & UpgradesPlan and execute z/OS upgrades, RSU maintenance, and patching cyclesManage SMP/E for software installation, maintenance, and CSI handlingOversee lifecycle management of ISV products, including upgrades and vendor coordinationIncident & Problem ManagementProvide L3 support for critical incidents, ensuring timely resolution of Sev1/Sev2 issuesLead Root Cause Analysis (RCA) and implement preventive actionsEnsure adherence to SLA commitments and service quality standardsHigh Availability, DR & ResilienceSupport Disaster Recovery (DR) planning and execution, including drills and failover validationEnsure system readiness for business continuity through Sysplex resilience and redundancyCollaborate with cross-functional teams for infrastructure risk mitigationAutomation & Operational ExcellenceDrive automation initiatives to improve operational efficiency and reduce manual effortImplement and maintain system automation frameworks for monitoring and recoveryContinuously improve processes aligned to ITIL best practicesLeadership & Stakeholder ManagementProvide technical leadership and mentorship to junior system programmersCollaborate with application teams, infrastructure teams, and vendors for solution deliveryParticipate in customer discussions, audits, and transformation initiativesKey Requirements and Technology Experience:Skills: Strong experience in z/OS System ProgrammingMVS, JES2Sysplex, LPARHCD / IODF configurationSMP/Ez/OS Upgrade & RSU MaintenanceISV Product MaintenanceIncident Management & RCADisaster Recovery (DR) supportSystem Automation tools/methodologies10+ years of experience in z/OS system programmingExperience in enterprise mainframe environments (Banking/Insurance preferred)Exposure to high-availability and mission-critical systems