Mainframe Architect

Job Title: Mainframe ArchitectLocation: Plano, TX (Onsite)Contract Type: C2CRate: $60/hr

Job Description: We are seeking a highly skilled Mainframe Architect with deep expertise in z/OS system architecture and a strong background in system administration, production control, scheduling, storage, networking, and automation. The ideal candidate will have significant experience leading mainframe teams and driving technical excellence across system performance, upgrades, and operations.

Key Responsibilities:

• Architect, install, configure, upgrade, and maintain z/OS operating systems and associated system software (SMP/E, JES2, RACF, SMF, etc.).

• Perform IODF/IOCP configurations and support hardware and virtual tape system (VTS) upgrades.

• Drive system-level performance tuning, capacity planning, and z/OS version upgrades.

• Provide leadership and technical oversight to a team of mainframe professionals, including system programmers and administrators.

• Manage and optimize production control and scheduling using tools such as IWS (TWS) and JOBTRAC.

• Lead root cause analysis and resolution of complex outages and system issues.

• Ensure best practices in mainframe storage management, networking, security (including RACF), and disaster recovery.

• Oversee automation initiatives using tools such as System Automation (SA) and CA OPS/MVS.

• Collaborate cross-functionally to support infrastructure upgrades and business continuity planning.

Required Skills & Experience:

• Extensive experience as a z/OS System Architect.

• Strong hands-on skills in system-level debugging, workload management (WLM), and performance optimization.

• Proven experience with mainframe hardware upgrades and configuration.

• Deep understanding of DB2, IMS, CICS, MQ, and WAS environments.

• Knowledge of mainframe security administration including RACF.

• Experience leading and mentoring technical teams.

• Familiarity with capacity management and performance monitoring tools.

• Excellent communication and documentation skills.