CICS Systems Programmer (CICS TS / zOS)

CICS Systems Programmer

CTG is seeking an experienced CICS Systems Programmer to support and maintain IBM CICS Transaction Server (CICS TS) environments within a large-scale enterprise mainframe infrastructure. This role is responsible for CICS systems programming, performance optimization, production support, system maintenance, and high-availability support for mission-critical transaction processing environments on IBM z/OS. Location: Hybrid schedule based in the Phoenix, AZ metro area Duration: 6-month contract with option to convert after 6 months Work Authorization: Candidates must be authorized to work in the U.S. without current or future sponsorship requirements.

Core Requirements

Strong IBM CICS Transaction Server (CICS TS) systems programming experience Expertise supporting IBM z/OS enterprise environments Experience with CICS performance tuning, troubleshooting, and production support Hands-on experience with CICSPlex SM (CPSM), MQ, DB2, IMS, and RACF Experience supporting high-availability and disaster recovery environments

Key Responsibilities

Install, configure, maintain, and upgrade IBM CICS Transaction Server (CICS TS) environments on IBM z/OS Support and administer CICS regions, CICSPlex SM (CPSM), MQ, DB2, IMS, VTAM, and TCP/IP connectivity Monitor and optimize CICS system performance, transaction throughput, and resource utilization Troubleshoot complex CICS, z/OS, middleware, and application-related production issues Perform system maintenance, migrations, patching, and upgrades using SMP/E and related tools Support disaster recovery (DR), high availability, and business continuity initiatives Implement and maintain RACF security controls, access standards, and operational compliance requirements Develop automation and operational support solutions using JCL, REXX, CLIST, and related scripting tools Collaborate with developers, DBAs, infrastructure teams, systems programmers, and operations support staff Participate in production support escalation and shared on-call rotation Support modernization initiatives including web services and API integration efforts within the mainframe environment

Required Skills & Qualifications

Strong experience with IBM CICS Transaction Server (CICS TS) Expertise in IBM z/OS systems programming Hands-on experience with: CICSPlex SM (CPSM) MQ Series DB2 and IMS interfaces VTAM/TCP-IP RACF security SMP/E JCL, REXX, and CLIST Experience with performance tuning and troubleshooting in enterprise OLTP environments Knowledge of web services and API integrations preferred Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills Excellent communication and cross-functional collaboration skills Experience 5+ years of experience as a CICS Systems Programmer in large enterprise mainframe environments Experience supporting mission-critical transaction processing systems Background in banking, insurance, healthcare, government, retail, or other large enterprise environments preferred Education Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or related field preferred Equivalent combination of education and relevant hands-on experience will also be considered Excellent verbal and written English communication skills and the ability to interact professionally with a diverse group are required.