Mainframe Programmer

Role Description:

System Installation & Maintenance

· Install, configure, and maintain IMS (DB and TM) subsystems, tools, and associated products (e.g., IMS Connect, IMS

Tools, ODBM, BMPs).

· Perform system upgrades, maintenance (APARs/PTFs), and migrations to newer IMS versions.

· Manage SMP/E environments for maintenance and software installation.

· Ensure compatibility between IMS, z/OS, DB2, CICS, and related products.

Performance & Capacity Management

· Monitor IMS system performance and tune parameters for optimal throughput and response times.

· Conduct capacity planning and growth analysis to ensure scalability and reliability.

· Utilize tools like OMEGAMON, Mainview, or RMF for performance tracking and problem diagnosis.

System Support & Troubleshooting

· Provide Level 3 technical support for IMS incidents and system abends.

· Diagnose and resolve IMS database recovery, log, and buffer issues.

· Collaborate with IBM support (PMRs, cases) for complex issues and patches.

Database Administration Support

· Support IMS DBA and application teams with DBD, PSB, and ACBGEN processes.

· Maintain IMS catalog and RECON datasets; ensure proper backup/recovery strategy.

· Manage IMS utilities such as DFSURGU0, DFSURWF0, and HALDB tools.

Automation & Integration

· Develop and maintain automation scripts using REXX, CLIST, or JCL for operational efficiency.

· Integrate IMS with monitoring tools, scheduling systems, and middleware (MQ, Connect).

· Support modernization initiatives such as IMS Open Database or REST API integration.

Disaster Recovery & Compliance

· Participate in DR planning, testing, and documentation of IMS recovery procedures.

· Ensure adherence to change management, audit, and compliance standards.

Documentation & Collaboration

· Maintain detailed system configuration and maintenance documentation.

· Provide mentorship to junior system programmers and cross-train peers.

· Work closely with database administrators, application developers, and infrastructure teams.

Other skills

· Experience with IMS integration to distributed systems (IMS Connect, JDBC, ODBM).

· Familiarity with z/OSMF, z/OS Connect EE, or API enablement initiatives.

· Knowledge of mainframe storage management (DFSMS, VSAM).

· Strong problem-solving, debugging, and performance analysis skills.

Essential Skills:

The IMS System Programmer is responsible for the installation, customization, maintenance, and support of IBM’s Information

Management System (IMS) environment on the z/OS mainframe platform. The role ensures high availability, performance, and

security of IMS subsystems, coordinates system upgrades, and provides technical expertise for application teams using IMS

databases and transaction managers.