Mainframe zOS Systems Programmer

The Systems Analyst for Mainframe Operations will oversee all facets of the operation and maintenance of our multiple mainframe environments. This resource will work to help support the operation programming and connections to other interrelated systems that operate within our environment. Regular interaction with Console Operators Programmer analysts and other user groups is critical to ensure the environment is available to other user areas that utilize the output of the mainframe. Dialogue with end user groups and leadership is important and allows for proper job scheduling and the migration of various print output to electronic formats when possible. As new product versions become available the analyst would research these products and the interactions and dependencies on the other related products in our inventory. Testing these products in test environments before adding to production is a key objective as we stay current. Title/level is commensurate with experience.

What does a Systems Analyst Mainframe Operations do
Oversees the installation upgrade configuration monitoring and maintenance of the Z/OS operating system
Maintains knowledge of all Z/OS utilities and tools (HCD SMP/E RACF TCP/IP SMTP FTP DFDSS DSF SMS Infoprint TLS VTAM)
Maintains knowledge of SERVER pack installs and upgrades
Maintains knowledge of TSO/JCL and all ISPF functionalities
Assists Mainframe programmers when needed (log on issues dataset issues Job abends)
Provides elevated Mainframe access to new Programmers Contractors & Computer Operators for TSO RACF & Zeke
Maintains knowledge of Hardware configuration via (HMC DS8800 and Luminex VTL tape subsystems)
Maintains knowledge of OEM products including (OPS/MVS (alerts) Zeke job scheduler Zara tape management
Holds a high degree of ability to resolve hardware/software issues to maintain 24x7 operation
Strong capability to identify system or process deficiencies and recommend solutions
Ensures the latest release of applications are implemented in a timely manner with minimal or no disruption to IT operations
Maintains and provides continuous improvement of the processes standards policies working methods and tools
Ensures appropriate tools and processes are in place to have a development/production environment that is reliable and reproducible
Ensures tool configuration consistency across development stage testing sandbox and production environments
Estimates work effort requirements efficiently and appropriately
Participates in ongoing production support and end user support
Provides user training and documentation updating existing and created new documents both technical and enduser
Reviews and make necessary changes to the Information Systems Division Disaster Recovery Support Manual annually
On Call 24 x 7 rotation with the other Mainframe Analysts to provide 24 x 7 coverage

What does it take to be a Systems Analyst Mainframe Operations
Required:
A Bachelors Degree in Computer Information Systems Computer Science or related field of study is required. In lieu of a BS degree an Associates Degree in Computer Information Systems Computer Science or related field of study with at least three years of experience in an IT Technical Support related field for example: supporting corporate wide database applications in the Z/OS environment
Ability to work with internal customers and outside vendors to resolve application and connectivity issues using various communication avenues and tools
Must have a proven track record in application and infrastructure support. This is not an application programming or helpdesk position
Welldeveloped written/verbal communication skills planning and organizational skills are required
Must be able to implement specialized computer based projects either working alone or as a member of a team
Must be able to work with minimal supervision and work well under pressure
Must have the ability to adapt to a variety of assignments
Must be able to work offhours and weekends when required to support 24/7 on call rotation
Experience managing mainframe Z/OS operating systems and associated applications and tools running on the Z/OS platform
Experience with Z/OS tools and functions
Valid drivers license

Preferred:
Advanced experience managing mainframe Z/OS operating systems and associated applications and tools running on the Z/OS platform
Advanced experience with all Z/OS tools and functions
Experience in cost control cost reductions and returns on investment justifications a definite plus