Sr. Systems Programmer

Sammons Financial Group•Sioux Falls, SD

12h

About The Position

Sammons Financial Group is seeking a skilled Sr. Systems Programmer to lead the administration, optimization, and support of IBM Z-Series mainframe infrastructure that supports core business operations. The role covers mainframe hardware, operating systems, and core software, including z/OS and related products such as CICS, DB2, and WebSphere MQ. The programmer will own system and software solutions, maintain performance and reliability, coordinate vendor escalations, lead disaster recovery planning and testing, provide technical direction and mentorship, and ensure security and compliance.

Requirements

Previous mainframe experience is required.
5–8 years of technical/programming experience is required.
Ability to complete complex projects within an established time frame.
Ability to communicate effectively with customers, both orally and in writing.
Demonstrated ability to lead technical initiatives, make independent decisions, and deliver sustained operational improvements.
A criminal background check is required.

Nice To Haves

A bachelor’s degree in Management Information Systems, Computer Information Technology, or a related IT field is preferred.
3–5 years of system programming experience is preferred.
Familiarity with system-level software products including REXX, JCL, Assembler, and COBOL is preferred.
Familiarity with IBM mainframe products including z/OS, CICS, DB2, and WebSphere MQ is preferred.
Familiarity with TCP/IP, DFSMS/HSM, HCD/IOCP, SMP/E, Unix System Services, AMI Ops, RACF, or CA-1.

Responsibilities

Plan, organize, and oversee the operation and stability of mainframe hardware, operating systems, and core software.
Independently analyze, design, implement, and own new or existing operating system and system software solutions.
Evaluate, install, configure, and tune IBM Z-Series hardware, z/OS, and related software, including CICS, DB2, and WebSphere MQ.
Ensure peak performance and reliability of mainframe components.
Manage vendor escalations to resolve complex hardware and software issues.
Lead disaster recovery planning and testing for assigned systems.
Provide advanced technical direction and mentorship to programming teams.
Develop and enforce internal operations standards and best practices.
Own system and application security configurations and ensure compliance with organizational and regulatory standards.
Conduct performance and capacity analyses and recommend and implement improvements.
Complete complex projects within established time frames.
Lead technical initiatives, make independent decisions, and deliver sustained operational improvements.

Benefits

Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, HSA and FSA options, and term life insurance.
Performance-based incentive program.
100% company-funded Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP).
Automatic enrollment in a 401(k).
Friday afternoons off year-round.
Generous paid time off and paid holidays.
Paid development time and tuition reimbursement.
Professional development opportunities across industry, individual, and leadership programs.
Volunteer time off.
Company nonprofit matching gift program.