Demo

z/OS Mainframe Systems Programmer

Apex Systems
Bethesda, MD Full Time
POSTED ON 12/18/2025
AVAILABLE BEFORE 1/17/2026
Job#: 3008285

Job Description:

A leading federal contractor is seeking a z/OS Mainframe Systems Programmer to support mission-critical infrastructure across a multi-LPAR Parallel Sysplex environment. This role offers the opportunity to work on cutting-edge IBM mainframe technologies and contribute to high-availability systems that support national operations.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Provide full lifecycle support for z/OS environments (v2.5 and v3.1), including installation, configuration, maintenance, and performance tuning.
  • Manage and optimize IBM z/OS components such as JES2, TCP/IP, VTAM, RACF, SMP/E, and IBM Workload Scheduler.
  • Support enterprise-class IBM mainframe hardware (z13 through z17), including Coupling Facility and Sysplex operations.
  • Administer storage systems (DFSMS, DFHSM, VSAM, DFSORT) and hardware configuration (HCD, IODF/IOCDS).
  • Deliver middleware support for CICS, USS (OMVS, zFS, NFS, Apache), and networking tools.
  • Assist in RACF security administration and integrate with Vanguard Security Solutions for compliance.
  • Conduct and document Disaster Recovery exercises and maintain audit readiness.
  • Monitor and tune system performance using SMF, RMF, and other diagnostic tools.
  • Collaborate with technical teams and document processes using modern tools like Microsoft OneNote.
  • Execute IPLs, HMC profile updates, and system parameter changes.

Qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience.
  • 10 years of experience in z/OS systems programming within large enterprise environments.
  • Recent hands-on experience with z/OS 2.5 and/or 3.1 (within the last 6 months).

Required Skills:

  • Deep expertise in Sysplex, JES2, SMP/E, TCP/IP, VTAM, RACF, CICS, USS, and IBM Workload Scheduler.
  • Strong background in performance tuning and troubleshooting using SMF/RMF.
  • Experience with IBM mainframe hardware (z13 to z17).
  • Proficiency in COBOL, Assembler, and REXX for automation and utilities.
  • Familiarity with modern documentation and collaboration tools.

Preferred Skills:

  • Experience with IBM Workload Scheduler v10 and Vanguard Security Solutions.
  • Understanding of hybrid environments integrating mainframe and distributed platforms.
  • Exposure to DevOps practices in mainframe operations.

Apex Systems is a world-class IT services company that serves thousands of clients across the globe. When you join Apex, you become part of a team that values innovation, collaboration, and continuous learning. We offer quality career resources, training, certifications, development opportunities, and a comprehensive benefits package. Our commitment to excellence is reflected in many awards, including ClearlyRated's Best of Staffing® in Talent Satisfaction in the United States and Great Place to Work® in the United Kingdom and Mexico.

Apex Benefits Overview: Apex offers a range of supplemental benefits, including medical, dental, vision, life, disability, and other insurance plans that offer an optional layer of financial protection. We offer an ESPP (employee stock purchase program) and a 401K program which allows you to contribute typically within 30 days of starting, with a company match after 12 months of tenure. Apex also offers a HSA (Health Savings Account on the HDHP plan), a SupportLinc Employee Assistance Program (EAP) with up to 8 free counseling sessions, a corporate discount savings program and other discounts. In terms of professional development, Apex hosts an on-demand training program, provides access to certification prep and a library of technical and leadership courses/books/seminars once you have 6 months of tenure, and certification discounts and other perks to associations that include CompTIA and IIBA. Apex has a dedicated customer service team for our Consultants that can address questions around benefits and other resources, as well as a certified Career Coach. You can access a full list of our benefits, programs, support teams and resources within our ‘Welcome Packet’ as well, which an Apex team member can provide.

Apex Systems is a world-class IT services company that serves thousands of clients across the globe. When you join Apex, you become part of a team that values innovation, collaboration, and continuous learning. We offer quality career resources, training, certifications, development opportunities, and a comprehensive benefits package. Our commitment to excellence is reflected in many awards, including ClearlyRated's Best of Staffing® in Talent Satisfaction in the United States and Great Place to Work® in the United Kingdom and Mexico.

Apex Benefits Overview: Apex offers a range of supplemental benefits, including medical, dental, vision, life, disability, and other insurance plans that offer an optional layer of financial protection. We offer an ESPP (employee stock purchase program) and a 401K program which allows you to contribute typically within 30 days of starting, with a company match after 12 months of tenure. Apex also offers a HSA (Health Savings Account on the HDHP plan), a SupportLinc Employee Assistance Program (EAP) with up to 8 free counseling sessions, a corporate discount savings program and other discounts. In terms of professional development, Apex hosts an on-demand training program, provides access to certification prep and a library of technical and leadership courses/books/seminars once you have 6 months of tenure, and certification discounts and other perks to associations that include CompTIA and IIBA. Apex has a dedicated customer service team for our Consultants that can address questions around benefits and other resources, as well as a certified Career Coach. You can access a full list of our benefits, programs, support teams and resources within our ‘Welcome Packet’ as well, which an Apex team member can provide.

Apex Systems is part of the Commercial Segment of ASGN Incorporated.

NYSE: ASGN

4400 Cox Road

Suite 200

Glen Allen, Virginia 23060

Apex Systems is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate or allow discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, or related medical conditions), age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, genetic information, registered domestic partner status, marital status, disability, status as a crime victim, protected veteran status, political affiliation, union membership, or any other characteristic protected by law. Apex will consider qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable law. If you have visited our website in search of information on employment opportunities or to apply for a position, and you require an accommodation in using our website for a search or application, please contact our Employee Services Department at [email protected] (Do not submit resumes or solicit consultants to this email address). UnitedHealthcare creates and publishes the Transparency in Coverage Machine-Readable Files on behalf of Apex Systems.

Salary : $60 - $67

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