Mainframe ZOS System Programmer
Kyndryl · Remote · Phoenix, United States · 2mo ago
Who We Are
At Kyndryl, we design, build, manage and modernize the mission-critical technology systems that the world depends on every day. So why work at Kyndryl? We are always moving forward – always pushing ourselves to go further in our efforts to build a more equitable, inclusive world for our employees, our customers and our communities.
The Role
The Mainframe z/OS System Programmer is responsible for the installation, customization, maintenance, and optimization of IBM z/OS operating systems and associated system software. This role ensures the stability, performance, security, and availability of mission-critical mainframe environments, supporting large-scale enterprise applications.
* This role requires employees to live in or around the Phoenix, AZ area. You will be responsible to be onsite 3 days a week. We will consider candidates who are willing to relocate to the area.
Responsibilities:
System Administration & Maintenance:
- Install, configure, and maintain IBM z/OS operating systems.
- Perform system upgrades, migrations (e.g., z/OS version upgrades), and apply maintenance (PTFs, APARs, RSUs).
- Manage IPL processes, system initialization, and configuration (PARMLIB, PROCLIB, SYS1 datasets).
- Monitor system health and performance using tools such as RMF, SMF, SDSF.
Subsystem Support:
- Install, configure, and support key subsystems:
- JES2/JES3
- TSO/E, ISPF
- USS (Unix System Services)
- RACF (in coordination with security teams)
- Work closely with DB2, CICS, IMS, MQ, and Storage teams for integration and support.
Performance & Capacity Management:
- Analyze system performance metrics and implement tuning improvements.
- Support capacity planning and resource optimization (CPU, memory, I/O).
- Evaluate hardware upgrades (e.g., CPU/MIPS growth, z-series enhancements).
Problem Management & Troubleshooting:
- Diagnose and resolve system-related issues, including system abends and failures.
- Perform root cause analysis for outages and major incidents.
- Work with IBM and vendors on problem determination and fixes.
Automation & Scheduling:
- Develop and maintain automation using tools such as:
- System REXX, CLIST
- SA z/OS, NetView
- Support job scheduling tools (e.g., CA7, Control-M where applicable).
Security & Compliance:
- Support system-level security configurations aligned with RACF policies.
- Ensure compliance with audit, regulatory, and enterprise security standards.
- Assist in vulnerability remediation and patching activities.
Change & Release Management:
- Execute changes through ITIL-based processes (ServiceNow or equivalent).
- Prepare implementation plans, backout procedures, and validation steps.
- Support weekend maintenance windows and IPL activities.
Documentation:
- Create and maintain technical documentation, including:
- System configurations
- Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
- Disaster Recovery plans
Your Future at Kyndryl
Every position at Kyndryl is an opportunity to be part of something bigger. We’re committed to your growth and development—because when you succeed, we succeed. In this role, you’ll gain exposure to global projects, cutting-edge technologies, and strategic initiatives that shape the future of businesses worldwide. Your career path doesn’t stop here. Whether you want to deepen your expertise, broaden your skills, or move into leadership, we’ll support you with learning programs, mentorship, and opportunities to take on new challenges. At Kyndryl, your future is yours to shape.
Kyndryl currently does not require employees to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19, however, if you are hired to work at a client, customer, or partner location, you may be required to show proof of vaccination to align with their respective COVID-19 vaccination policies. Those who believe they are eligible may apply for a medical or religious accommodation prior to the start of employment.
Who You Are
You’re good at what you do and possess the required experience to prove it. However, equally as important – you have a growth mindset; keen to drive your own personal and professional development. You are customer-focused – someone who prioritizes customer success in their work. And finally, you’re open and borderless – naturally inclusive in how you work with others.
Required Qualifications
- 5+ years of experience in mainframe system programming (z/OS).
- Strong hands-on knowledge of z/OS, JES2/JES3, TSO/ISPF, SDSF, USS/OMVS, SMP/E.
- Experience with large-scale environments (multi-LPAR, Parallel Sysplex).
- Knowledge of vendor products (Broadcom, IBM, BMC).
- IBM certifications (preferred but not mandatory).
Preferred Experience
- Exposure to mainframe modernization initiatives (APIs, hybrid cloud integration).
- Experience with z/OSMF and modern interfaces.
- Knowledge of DevOps practices on mainframe (CI/CD pipelines).
- Exposure to Zowe and APIs on z/OS.
The compensation range for this position in the US is $79,920 to $152,160 based on a full-time schedule. Your actual compensation may vary depending on your geography, job-related skills, and experience.For part time roles, the compensation will be adjusted appropriately.The pay or salary range will not be below any applicable state, city, or local minimum wage requirement.
This position will be eligible for Kyndryl's discretionary annual bonus program, based on performance and subject to the terms of Kyndryl's applicable plans.You may also receive a comprehensive benefits package which includes medical and dental coverage, disability, retirement benefits, paid leave and paid time off.Note: if this is a sales commission eligible role, you will be eligible to participate in a sales commission plan in lieu of the annual discretionary bonus program. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.
Being You
Diversity is a whole lot more than what we look like or where we come from, it’s how we think and who we are. We welcome people of all cultures, backgrounds, and experiences. But we’re not doing it single-handily: Our Kyndryl Inclusion Networks are only one of many ways we create a workplace where all Kyndryls can find and provide support and advice. This dedication to welcoming everyone into our company means that Kyndryl gives you – and everyone next to you – the ability to bring your whole self to work, individually and collectively, and support the activation of our equitable culture. That’s the Kyndryl Way.
What You Can Expect
With state-of-the-art resources and Fortune 100 clients, every day is an opportunity to innovate, build new capabilities, new relationships, new processes, and new value. Kyndryl cares about your well-being and prides itself on offering benefits that give you choice, reflect the diversity of our employees and support you and your family through the moments that matter – wherever you are in your life journey. Our employee learning programs give you access to the best learning in the industry to receive certifications, including Microsoft, Google, Amazon, Skillsoft, and many more. Through our company-wide volunteering and giving platform, you can donate, start fundraisers, volunteer, and search over 2 million non-profit organizations. At Kyndryl, we invest heavily in you, we want you to succeed so that together, we will all succeed.
Get Referred!
If you know someone that works at Kyndryl, when asked ‘How Did You Hear About Us’ during the application process, select ‘Employee Referral’ and enter your contact's Kyndryl email address.