Migration Specialist – IBM Scheduler; IZWS

Migration Specialist – IBM Z Workload Scheduler (IZWS)

Location:

Atlanta

Level: 5 (Senior)

Employment type:

Onsite

A Migration Specialist is responsible for planning, analyzing, and executing the transition of scheduling systems (e.g., CA ESP) to IBM Z Workload Scheduler (IZWS). They ensure smooth data conversion, system setup, customization handling, testing, and production cutover while working closely with IBM migration teams and internal stakeholders.

Work Timing: 9×5 US Day shift.

Support Model:
On call plus extended support during critical phases (cutover, migration, validation).

• Analyze and identify external dependencies and integrations in the existing CA Workload Automation ESP scheduler environment.
• Collect, validate, and provide scheduling and migration‑related data required for analysis and execution.
• Work closely with IBM Migration Specialists and participate in regular status and technical sessions.
• Support end‑to‑end migration lifecycle, including data preparation, conversion, validation, and production cutover.
• Perform SMP/E installation and customization of IBM Z Workload Scheduler (IZWS) and ensure operational readiness.
• Execute daily validation, defect fixing, and tracking during migration and parallel run phases.
• Participate in parallel tracking, analyze discrepancies, and perform root‑cause analysis.
• Review, validate, and sign off on parallel run results and final migration outcomes.
• Support OMA tool execution, validation, and sign‑off processes.
• Code and customize scheduler exits/modals with IBM guidance where required.
• Ensure adherence to migration best practices, agreed processes, and solution frameworks.

• Strong analytical and problem‑solving mindset.
• Ability to understand complex scheduling environments and dependencies.
• Good communication skills for coordination with IBM and internal teams.
• Ability to handle pressure during cutover and critical phases.
• Detail‑oriented with strong documentation and validation skills.
• Team player with ability to work cross‑functionally (infra, security, apps).

Core Skills

• Strong hands‑on experience with mainframe scheduling tools, especially CA Workload Automation ESP and IBM Z Workload Scheduler (IZWS).
• Deep understanding of batch processing, job scheduling, and workflow automation.
• Rexx and JCL scripting knowledge is mandatory.
• Strong knowledge of mainframe technologies (z/OS, JCL, SMP/E).
• Experience in parallel run validation and production cutover processes.
• Ability to analyze scheduler dependencies, external interfaces, and integrations.

Secondary Skills

• Knowledge with IBM OMA (Database Conversion tool).
• Knowledge of scheduler database conversion techniques.
• Knowledge in tool customization and migration scripting.
• Familiarity with parallel tracking reports and issue diagnosis.
• Understanding of scheduler‑related APIs, integrations, and automation tools.
• Working knowledge of Dev Ops or automation practices in mainframe environments.

Good to Have Knowledge

• Exposure to cutover planning and large migration projects.
• Prior engagement with IBM migration projects or tools.
• Exposure to system integration, infrastructure, and security frameworks.
• Knowledge of hybrid environments (mainframe + distributed/cloud).

• 6+ years in IBM Workload Scheduler (IWS / IZWS / TWS z/OS).
• Hands‑on experience in at least 1 migration project (preferred CA → IZWS).
• End‑to‑end migration lifecycle (analysis → cutover).