Mainframe IMS System Programmer

Job Description

Must Have Technical/Functional

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.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

• Participate in DR planning, testing, and documentation of IMS recovery procedures.
• Ensure adherence to change management, audit, and compliance standards.

• 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.

• 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.

$120,000 - $150,000 per annum

• Discretionary Annual Incentive.
• Comprehensive Medical Coverage:
  Medical & Health, Dental & Vision, Disability Planning & Insurance, Pet Insurance Plans.
• Family Support:
  Maternal & Parental Leaves.
• Insurance Options:
  Auto & Home Insurance, Identity Theft Protection.
• Convenience & Professional Growth:
  Commuter Benefits & Certification & Training Reimbursement.
• Time Off:
  Vacation, Time Off, Sick Leave & Holidays.
• Legal & Financial Assistance:
  Legal Assistance, 401K Plan, Performance Bonus, College Fund, Student Loan Refinancing.

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