What are the responsibilities and job description for the z/OS Systems Programmer - ITS4 position at State of Minnesota - Minnesota IT Services?
Job Details
Working Title: z/OS Systems Programmer
Job Class: Information Technology Specialist 4
Agency: Minnesota IT Services
- Job ID: 90163
- Location: St. Paul
- Telework Eligible: Yes #LI-Hybrid
- Full/Part Time: Full-Time
- Regular/Temporary: Unlimited
- Who May Apply: Open to all qualified job seekers
- Date Posted: 11/15/2025
- Closing Date: 11/21/2025
- Hiring Agency/Seniority Unit: Minnesota IT Services
- Division/Unit: Office of Enterprise Tech / Mainframe Systems Support
- Work Shift/Work Hours: Day Shift
- Days of Work: Monday - Friday
- Travel Required: No
- Salary Range: $37.07 - $61.14 / hourly; $77,402 - $127,660 / annually
- Job Class Option: Systems Software
- Classified Status: Classified
- Bargaining Unit/Union: 214 - Professional Employees (MAPE)
- FLSA Status: Exempt - Administrative
- Designated in Connect 700 Program for Applicants with Disabilities: Yes
The work you'll do is more than just a job.
At the State of Minnesota, employees play a critical role in developing policies, providing essential services, and working to improve the well-being and quality of life for all Minnesotans. The State of Minnesota is committed to equity and inclusion, and invests in employees by providing benefits, support resources, and training and development opportunities.
Join the 2,800 professionals of Minnesota IT Services (MNIT) who connect Minnesotans to services that will improve their lives. This position will be part of the Enterprise Services team, which delivers a full suite of services to state agencies, boards, councils, and commissions, and many central services to local government partners.
Job Summary
The Mainframe z/OS Systems Programmer is responsible for the reliable operation, maintenance, and support of MNIT's mainframe environment. This position works closely with Console Operators, Programmer Analysts, and user groups to ensure system availability and performance for business-critical applications.
The role requires effective communication with end-users and leadership to align maintenance activities with business needs. Responsibilities include researching and evaluating new product versions, assessing system dependencies, and identifying alternatives for offloading workloads to non-mainframe platforms. All changes are tested in controlled environments before production implementation to maintain system stability and efficiency.
This position requires an employee to be onsite at 600 North Robert Street, Saint Paul, Minnesota at least 50% of the time, with some opportunity to perform work from a telework location. Telework for Minnesota IT Services is available on a limited basis. Employees will be required to meet current telework eligibility requirements.
Qualifications
Minimum Qualifications
Candidates must clearly demonstrate all of the following qualifications in their resume. Resume tips here.:
Position requires a minimum of four (4) years of IT related experience in z/OS mainframe system support.
Experience must include:
- Experience with IBM Job Control Language (JCL) and installing software using SMP/E.
- Experience supporting and configuring z/OS, Global Resource Serialization (GRS) or MIM, Unix Systems Services applications, or mainframe security software such as ACF2 or RACF, ETF/A, and others.
- Knowledge of IBM z/OS with experience leading operating system upgrades
- Experience with IBM mainframe computer hardware and operating system tools/utilities.
- Ability to deliver effective verbal or written messages that facilitate a mutual understanding on both parties.
- Customer service skills that include active listening, empathy, and problem-solving.
A master’s degree in Information Technology or an IT related field substitutes for three (3) years of experience, OR an IT related bachelor’s degree substitutes for two (2) years, OR an IT related associate’s degree substitutes for one (1) year.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience administering Work Load Manager (WLM) on z/OS, including tuning and optimization of workloads.
- Knowledge of file organizations and access methods, such as VSAM or UNIX.
- Knowledge of current CA MICS (Management Information Control System).
- Experience supporting Coupling Facility structures, SMR, LDAP server, and others.
- Familiarity with cloud-based processing solutions.
- Ability to implement specialized computer-based projects, either working alone or as a member of a team.
Additional Requirements
- SEMA4 Records Check (applies to current and past state employees only)
- Criminal History Check
- Reference Check
- Social Security and Address Verification
- Education Verification
- CJIS Background Check
- Other legally required checks
Application Details
How to Apply
Select “Apply for Job” at the top of this page. If you have questions about applying for jobs, contact the Careers Help Desk at 651-259-3637 or email careers@state.mn.us. For additional information about the application process, go to http://www.mn.gov/careers.
Contact
If you have questions about this position, contact Nicholas Remme-Ong at nick.remme-ong@state.mn.us.
Connect 700 Program
To receive consideration as a Connect 700 Program applicant, apply online, email the Job ID#, the Working Title and your valid Proof of Eligibility Certificate by the closing date to Nicholas Remme-Ong at nick.remme-ong@state.mn.us.
- Meet all Minimum Qualifications identified in this posting.
- Meet all of the RSV criteria.
- Submit a copy of your DD-214 form by the closing date to: nick.remme-ong@state.mn.us.
- Meet service requirements and have a verified service-connected disability rating of at least 30%.
- Provide qualifying documentation verifying the disability.
- Meet all Minimum Qualifications identified in this posting.
- You must submit all documentation by the closing date to: nick.remme-ong@state.mn.us.
- Bidders: This vacancy is open for bids and all qualified applicants simultaneously. This vacancy will be filled in accordance with applicable union contract provisions. Current employees of Minnesota IT Services who are currently in an Information Technology Specialist 4/Systems Software position and who are eligible to bid and apply within the seven (7) day bidding period will be considered prior to filling the position via other means.
- Current State Employees: Please note that employment provisions (including but not limited to seniority and leave accrual) vary among the three branches of Minnesota State government. When considering a job with another branch of state government, you are highly encouraged to explore these differences. For assistance, please direct questions to your current or anticipated Human Resources office.
About Minnesota IT Services
Minnesota IT Services is the information technology agency for the State of Minnesota. MNIT partners with agencies, boards, councils, and commissions to deliver secure, reliable technology solutions as we set IT strategy, direction, policies, and standards statewide. Work for MNIT and be part of a nation-leading IT organization that helps to create an innovative government that works for everyone. Our culture promotes collaboration, demands agility, and encourages us to embrace change. Be a part of something bigger than yourself, something to be inspired by; come to work for MNIT.
Working together to improve the state we love.
What do Minnesota's State employees have in common?
- A sense of purpose in their work
- Connection with their coworkers and communities
- Opportunities for personal and professional growth
Benefits
As an employee, you'll have access to one of the most affordable health insurance plans in Minnesota, along with other benefits to help you and your family be well.
Your benefits may include:
- Paid vacation and sick leave
- 12 paid holidays each year
- Low-cost medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug plans
- Fertility care, including IVF
- Diabetes care
- Dental and orthodontic care for adults and children
- 6 weeks paid leave for parents of newborn or newly adopted children
- Pension plan that provides income when you retire (after working at least three years)
- Employer paid life insurance to provide support for your family in the event of death
- Short-term and long-term disability insurance that can provide income if you are unable to work due to illness or injury
- Tax-free expense accounts for health, dental, and dependent care
- Resources that provide support and promote physical, emotional, social, and financial well-being
Support to help you reach your career goals:
- Training, classes, and professional development
- Tuition reimbursement
- Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (Some positions may qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program. For more information, visit the Federal Student Aid website at studentaid.gov)
Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for work/life support:
- A voluntary confidential program that helps employees and their families with life challenges that may impact overall health, personal well-being, or job performance
- Common sources of stress can be addressed through the EAP: mental health, relationship challenges (personal and work), grief and loss, finances, and legal issues
- Daily Living/Convenience Services: Chore services, home repair, trip planning, child/elder care
Programs, resources and benefits eligibility varies based on type of employment, agency, funding availability, union/collective bargaining agreement, location, and length of service with the State of Minnesota.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYERS
Minnesota state agencies are equal opportunity, affirmative action, and veteran-friendly employers. State agencies are committed to creating a workforce that reflects the diversity of the state and strongly encourages persons of color and Indigenous communities, members of the LGBTQIA2S community, individuals with disabilities, women, and veterans to apply. The varied experiences and perspectives of employees strengthen the work we do together and our ability to best serve Minnesotans.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and disabilities related to pregnancy or childbirth), gender identity, gender expression, marital status, familial status, age, sexual orientation, status regarding public assistance, disability, veteran status or activity in a local Human Rights Commission or any other characteristic protected by law.
APPLICANTS WITH DISABILITIES
Minnesota state agencies make reasonable accommodations to their employees and applicants with disabilities. If you have a disability and need assistance in searching or applying for jobs with the State of Minnesota, call the Careers Help Desk at 651-259-3637 or email careers@state.mn.us and let us know the support you need.
Salary : $77,402 - $127,660
