Mainframe z/OS Systems Programmer ( Security Administration)
Senior Mainframe z/OS Systems Programmer
- 6 months Contract to hire
- 100% REMOTE
- Client: US based Managed IT Services firm with excellent benefits ( unlimited vacation/ 401 K, Health etc )
- NO ON-CALL.
- Experienced with Z/OS upgrades AND Security products like RACF / ACF2 / Top Secret etc
Position Overview
We are seeking an experienced Mainframe Systems Programmer specializing in z/OS upgrades, third-party software upgrades, and security administration. This role is responsible for the installation, testing, and implementation of new z/OS releases and related system software, ensuring a stable and optimized mainframe environment. The position also requires expertise in RACF, ACF2, or Top Secret security packages, ensuring compliance and security best practices.
Key Responsibilities
- z/OS and Third-Party Software Upgrades
- Plan, test, and implement z/OS upgrades and patches to maintain system reliability and performance.
- Install, configure, and upgrade third-party software products essential to the mainframe environment.
- Ensure compatibility of new software versions with existing infrastructure.
- Security Administration (RACF, ACF2, or Top Secret)
- Configure and maintain mainframe security protocols in alignment with enterprise security policies.
- Implement access controls and security policies within RACF, ACF2, or Top Secret.
- Analyze security vulnerabilities and apply necessary fixes.
- System Configuration & Maintenance
- Customize PARMLIB and JES2 settings for optimal system performance.
- Provide ongoing support for z/OS environments, resolving incidents, managing system changes, and troubleshooting problems.
- Monitor and tune system software to enhance performance.
- Conduct research and evaluation of new z/OS features, software tools, and hardware products.
- Collaboration & Vendor Management
- Work directly with hardware and software vendors on solution design and implementation.
- Assist team members and cross-functional groups with technical problem resolution.
- Develop and document best practices for software upgrades, problem resolution, and system performance.
Technical Expertise Required
- Deep knowledge of z/OS components and associated support products (tape management, scheduling, security, monitoring tools, etc.).
- Experience in z/OS security administration (RACF, ACF2, or Top Secret).
- Advanced proficiency in TSO/ISPF, SDSF, JCL, and Unix System Services (USS).
- Ability to configure z/OS services structure, Parallel Sysplex, and Catalog Management.
- Hands-on experience with LPAR, HMC, and REXX scripting.
- Strong problem-solving, analytical, and troubleshooting skills.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Preferred Qualifications
- 5+ years of experience in z/OS systems programming within a large enterprise environment.
- College degree in a relevant field preferred.
- Experience in DB2, CICS, or IMS is a plus.
- Familiarity with Dynamic Workload Console.
The anticipated hourly rate range for this position is ($70-$90). Actual hourly rate will be based on a variety of factors including relevant experience, knowledge, skills and other factors permitted by law. A range of medical, dental, retirement and/or other benefits are available after a waiting period.
Senior Mainframe z/OS Systems Programmer
- 6 months Contract to hire
- 100% REMOTE
- Client: US based Managed IT Services firm with excellent benefits ( unlimited vacation/ 401 K, Health etc )
- NO ON-CALL.
- Experienced with Z/OS upgrades AND Security products like RACF / ACF2 / Top Secret etc
Position Overview
We are seeking an experienced Mainframe Systems Programmer specializing in z/OS upgrades, third-party software upgrades, and security administration. This role is responsible for the installation, testing, and implementation of new z/OS releases and related system software, ensuring a stable and optimized mainframe environment. The position also requires expertise in RACF, ACF2, or Top Secret security packages, ensuring compliance and security best practices.
Key Responsibilities
- z/OS and Third-Party Software Upgrades
- Plan, test, and implement z/OS upgrades and patches to maintain system reliability and performance.
- Install, configure, and upgrade third-party software products essential to the mainframe environment.
- Ensure compatibility of new software versions with existing infrastructure.
- Security Administration (RACF, ACF2, or Top Secret)
- Configure and maintain mainframe security protocols in alignment with enterprise security policies.
- Implement access controls and security policies within RACF, ACF2, or Top Secret.
- Analyze security vulnerabilities and apply necessary fixes.
- System Configuration & Maintenance
- Customize PARMLIB and JES2 settings for optimal system performance.
- Provide ongoing support for z/OS environments, resolving incidents, managing system changes, and troubleshooting problems.
- Monitor and tune system software to enhance performance.
- Conduct research and evaluation of new z/OS features, software tools, and hardware products.
- Collaboration & Vendor Management
- Work directly with hardware and software vendors on solution design and implementation.
- Assist team members and cross-functional groups with technical problem resolution.
- Develop and document best practices for software upgrades, problem resolution, and system performance.
Technical Expertise Required
- Deep knowledge of z/OS components and associated support products (tape management, scheduling, security, monitoring tools, etc.).
- Experience in z/OS security administration (RACF, ACF2, or Top Secret).
- Advanced proficiency in TSO/ISPF, SDSF, JCL, and Unix System Services (USS).
- Ability to configure z/OS services structure, Parallel Sysplex, and Catalog Management.
- Hands-on experience with LPAR, HMC, and REXX scripting.
- Strong problem-solving, analytical, and troubleshooting skills.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Preferred Qualifications
- 5+ years of experience in z/OS systems programming within a large enterprise environment.
- College degree in a relevant field preferred.
- Experience in DB2, CICS, or IMS is a plus.
- Familiarity with Dynamic Workload Console.
The anticipated hourly rate range for this position is ($70-$90). Actual hourly rate will be based on a variety of factors including relevant experience, knowledge, skills and other factors permitted by law. A range of medical, dental, retirement and/or other benefits are available after a waiting period.