Mainframe IMS System Programmer - Remote - HS 26-09286

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.