Systems Programmer IV - Mainframe Networking

Acara•Highland Beach, FL

About The Position

Overview: The Senior Systems Programmer for Mainframe Networking is responsible for the design, implementation, maintenance, and optimization of mainframe network infrastructure. This role ensures high availability, security, and performance of mainframe communications systems, including VTAM, TCP/IP, and related subsystems. The ideal candidate will have deep expertise in IBM z/OS environments and a strong background in network protocols and mainframe middleware. Participates in technical research and development to enable continuing innovation within the Networking & Middleware Mainframe infrastructure.

Requirements

10+ years of hands-on experience in mainframe systems programming on the z/OS platform.
Expert-level knowledge of z/OS Communication Server, including VTAM, TCP/IP, FTP, SFTP, TLS, Enterprise Extender, and Connect:Direct (NDM).
In-depth knowledge of SMP/E for software installation and maintenance.
Fluency in JCL, REXX, and CLIST among others.
Proven analytical and problem-solving skills for diagnosing and resolving complex technical issues.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to explain complex technical information to both technical and non-technical audiences.
Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field, or equivalent work experience.

Nice To Haves

Strong proficiency with mainframe middleware, including IBM MQ Series on Z, CICS, & DB2 on Z.
10+ years of experience in mainframe systems programming, with a focus on networking and middleware.
Relevant certifications are a plus.

Responsibilities

System Management & Product Maintenance: Install, customize, and maintain mainframe network software, including but not limited to, z/OS Communication Server (VTAM, TCP/IP, FTP, SFTP, TLS, and Enterprise Extender) and Connect:Direct (NDM). Apply maintenance to all associated software & products as required to maintain system stability.
Troubleshooting and Problem Resolution: Serve as a top-tier technical escalation point for complex problems involving mainframe networking within the mainframe environment, including middleware components (CICS, DB2, MQ, and JES2). Use diagnostic tools (e.g., IPCS, packet traces) to perform root cause analysis and implement effective solutions. Respond to and resolve incidents; work with vendor to identify and implement fix where applicable. Provide guidance to less experienced staff. Identify root causes of system issues and work with partner teams to fix the root cause.
Performance and Tuning: Monitor system performance, conduct capacity planning, and implement performance-tuning measures to optimize system efficiency and ensure service-level agreements (SLAs) are met.
Security and Compliance: Work closely with the security team to implement and maintain security protocols, including AT-TLS configuration and certificate management, to protect data and ensure compliance with corporate standards.
Project Leadership: Lead and participate in large-scale projects, such as major software upgrades, hardware refreshes, and disaster recovery planning and exercises.
Collaboration and Mentoring: Collaborate with application developers, operations staff, and other systems programmers. Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior team members.
Documentation: Maintain comprehensive documentation of system configurations, procedures, and problem-solving techniques.
Education: Attend vendor sponsored conferences as a representative of the Company to seek out industry technology to utilize at the Company. Provide thought leadership at vendor-sponsored conferences, presenting new technologies or providing industry leadership in new technologies. Review training opportunities that are available and make recommendations.
On-call Support: Take ownership of emergency support responsibilities as part of a 24/7 on-call rotation.
Collaboration: Ability to work effectively in a team environment and collaborate with various departments to achieve organizational goals.
Understand and adhere to the Company's risk and regulatory standards, policies, and controls in accordance with the Company's Risk Appetite. Identify risk-related issues needing escalation to management.
Promote an environment that supports belonging and reflects the Company's brand.
Maintain Company's internal control standards, including timely implementation of internal and external audit points together with any issues raised by external regulators as applicable.
Complete other related duties as assigned.