Mainframe IMS Solution Architect - Remote in US

Product InstallUpgrade Product installupgradesmaintenance and customization with usermods. Supporting Product Support Managing supporting software products. CICS Configuration Configuration of CICS and setting up subsystem connectivity System InstallationUpgrades & Configuration Plan, test, and implement IMS software upgrades, RSU, and feature enhancements Deep understanding of IMS/TM and IMS/DB subsystems, message processing regions, and how IMS fits within a z/OS Sysplex. Database Management Proficient in defining and maintaining IMS databases using DBDs and PSBs, controls for segmentation, and executing DL/I utilities. Hands-on experience developing and maintaining IMS applications in COBOL, writing exits in Assembler, and automating tasks with REXX. System Administration Skills in installing, configuring, and patching IMS regions; managing control blocks; and orchestrating deployments via SMP/E or z/OSMF. SYSGEN and subsystem connectivity management for MQ, CICS and DB2. Also LU6.2 and NJE connectivity Performance Tuning Ability to monitor IMS transaction and database performance, adjust IMS buffer pools, and optimize logging and threading for SLAs. Troubleshooting Strong analytical skills for diagnosing transaction failures, database lock contention, and communication errors using trace tools and dumps. Backup and Recovery Knowledge of IMS restart strategies (cold, warm, and concurrent restarts) and integration with DFSMShsm for log retention and recovery. Familiarity with linking IMS to CICS, DB2, MQ, web services, and leveraging IMS Connect or GATEWAY for cross-platform transactions. Documentation and Communication Ability to produce clear runbooks, architecture diagrams, change-control records, and to coordinate with developers, DBAs, and operations teams. Continuous Learning Commitment to staying current with IBM Redbooks, IMS enhancements, vendor training, and industry best practices. | | Proficiency Level | Tools / Technologies Used ---|---|---|--- | | Application coding, system exits, automation scripting | Intermediate | COBOL, HLASM, REXX, ISPF System Administration | Region installs, PTF deployments, SMP/E and z/OSMF use | Intermediate | SMP/E, z/OSMF, SDSF, SMP/E RECEIVE/APPLY/ACCEPT, SYSGEN Performance Tuning | Buffer tuning, logging optimization, workload balancing | Intermediate | RMF, SMF, OMEGAMON, IMS Performance Analyzer Troubleshooting | Dump analysis, trace capture, log interpretation | Advanced | IPCS, SLIP, IMS logs, dump analyzers Backup & Recovery | Cold/warm restarts, log retention, disaster recovery | Intermediate | DFSMShsm, FDR, ABARS | Connecting IMS with middleware and enterprise systems | Intermediate | IMS Connect, MQSeries, JDBC, web services Documentation & Communication | Runbooks, diagrams, change-control documentation | Advanced | Visio, Word, Confluence, SharePoint Continuous Learning | 12+ years of Mainframe experience Must have database management experience Communication Clearly conveys technical concepts and status updates to both technical and non-technical stakeholders, ensuring alignment and shared understanding. Collaboration Works effectively with application developers, DBAs, operations teams, and vendors, fostering a team mindset and driving joint problem resolution. Analytical Thinking Breaks down complex system behaviors into root causes, leveraging structured reasoning to guide troubleshooting and design decisions. Adaptability Quickly adjusts to new IMS releases, changing project priorities, and evolving operational challenges without disruption to service delivery. Attention to Detail Meticulously reviews configuration parameters, job streams, and change-control documentation to prevent errors in highly sensitive production environments. Time Management Prioritizes tasks—such as system maintenance, incident response, and project work—to meet tight SLAs and minimize business impact. Customer Focus Anticipates and responds to the needs of internal customers by delivering reliable IMS services and clear guidance on usage or recovery procedures. Resilience Maintains composure under pressure—during outage scenarios or high-volume support windows—and works methodically toward resolution. Mentoring & Coaching Shares expertise with junior engineers through peer reviews, knowledge-transfer sessions, and documentation, strengthening overall team capability. Continuous Learning Mindset Seeks out training, IBM Redbooks, vendor webinars, and community forums to stay ahead of IMS innovations and best practices. | Ongoing | IBM Redbooks, TechU, vendor webinars