Z​/VM Mainframe System Programmer

About the role

As a z/VM Mainframe System Programmer, you will make an impact by directly protecting the availability and performance of mission-critical mainframe systems the business depends on every day, from provisioning and supporting z/OS, z/Linux, and z/VSE guests, to keeping core VM services resilient and minimizing risk of costly downtime. You’ll provide expert-level installation, configuration, administration, and support of IBM z/VM operating systems in a demanding, high-availability production environment.

You will be a valued member of the Cloud Infrastructure and Security team and work collaboratively with VM guest owners, hardware engineers, and other technical stakeholders to keep the z/VM environment stable, secure, and performing at its best.

• Install, configure, administer, and maintain IBM z/VM operating systems, providing expert-level support.
• Define and manage VM guests for various operating systems, including z/OS, z/VM, z/Linux, and z/VSE.
• Collaborate with VM guest owners to ensure the appropriate allocation of virtual and real resources.
• Configure and administer essential VM service machines (e.g., RSCS, TCPIP SSL, VTAM, and Certificate Management).
• Ensure proficiency in the building, backup, and restoration of DCSS and NSS segments.
• Demonstrate extensive experience using the CA/Broadcom suite of VM products.
• Install, maintain, and configure VM products from IBM and other third-party vendors.
• Apply strong troubleshooting and implementation skills to quickly resolve complex issues and maintain system stability.

We strive to provide flexibility wherever possible. Based on this role’s business requirements, this is a remote position open to qualified applicants in Cincinnati, OH. Regardless of your working arrangement, we are here to support a healthy work-life balance through our various wellbeing programs.

The working arrangements for this role are accurate as of the date of posting. This may change based on the project you’re engaged in, as well as business and client requirements. Rest assured; we will always be clear about role expectations.

• 8 or more years of hands‑on experience with IBM z/VM administration and support.
• Proven ability to work effectively in a demanding, high-availability production environment.
• 6+ years’ experience with guest provisioning and management of z/OS, z/VM, z/Linux, and z/VSE under z/VM.

• Expertise in Hardware Configuration Definition (HCD) and Input/Output Configuration Data Set (IOCDS) management.
• Ability to update and manage hardware configurations, including definitions for the processor, channels, control units, and devices.
• Technical knowledge of IBM Z hardware configuration and I/O subsystem design.
• Ability to forecast business workload demand and capacity planning for future upgrades.

We're excited to meet people who share our mission and can make an impact in a variety of ways. Think about your transferable experiences and unique skills that make you stand out as someone who can bring new and exciting things to this role.

Applications will be accepted until August 10, 2026.

The annual salary for this position is between [$99,000 – $115,000 USD] depending on experience and other qualifications of the successful candidate.

This position is also eligible for Cognizant’s discretionary annual incentive program, based on performance and subject to the terms of Cognizant’s applicable plans.

• Medical/Dental/Vision/Life Insurance
• Paid holidays plus Paid Time Off
• 401(k) plan and contributions
• Long-term/Short-term Disability
• Paid Parental Leave
• Employee Stock Purchase Plan

Disclaimer:
The salary, other compensation, and benefits information is accurate as of the date of this posting. Cognizant reserves the right to modify this information at any time, subject to applicable law.

Please note, this role is not able to offer visa transfer or sponsorship now or in the future.

Cognizant is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.