IBM z/OS mainframe Software Specialist

NTT DATA, Inc.; Plano (TX); On-site; USD 77,120 - 145,240; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

Flexible spending or health savings account

Paid time off

401(k) program with company match

Job summary

NTT DATA, Inc. is seeking an IBM z/OS mainframe Software Specialist to join their team in Plano, Texas. The role requires deep technical expertise in the mainframe ecosystem, with responsibilities including analyzing and stabilizing COBOL-based systems and supporting modernization initiatives.

The ideal candidate will have 10+ years of experience, a Bachelor's in a related field, and the ability to work extensively with mainframe development tools. A competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package are included.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of experience in IBM z/OS mainframe environments.
• Experience with large-scale transaction processing systems.
• Strong analytical and reverse engineering capabilities.

Responsibilities

• Analyze mainframe application landscape including COBOL programs.
• Develop and maintain COBOL programs and JCL scripts.
• Support transformation initiatives and collaborate with architects.

Skills

COBOL (batch and online)

VSAM/GSAM file systems

DB2

IMS DB/DC

TSO/ISPF

Education

Bachelor's in computer science or related field

Tools

IBM MQ Series

SFTP

Job description

We are currently seeking an IBM z/OS mainframe Software Specialist to join our team in Plano, Texas (US-TX), United States.

Job Description

Provide deep technical expertise across the IBM z/OS mainframe ecosystem, supporting legacy MMIS assessment, reverse engineering, and modernization initiatives. This role focuses on analyzing and stabilizing COBOL-based, DB2/IMS-backed, batch-driven systems, and enabling their transition to a modern, modular MES architecture.

Day to Day Job Duties

Legacy System Analysis

• Analyze end-to-end mainframe application landscape, including COBOL programs (online and batch), DB2, IMS databases, VSAM/GSAM file structures.
• Understand system flows across claims processing, financial transactions interfaces and batch cycles.
• Perform code and job flow walkthroughs to document current-state architecture.
• Extract and document business rules and processing logic, claims edits, pricing, and adjudication workflows; data models and file structures (DB2 tables, VSAM datasets).
• Create functional specifications, data flow diagrams, interface and dependency mappings.

Mainframe Development & Operations

• Develop, maintain, and troubleshoot COBOL programs (batch and online) and JCL scripts for job execution and scheduling.
• Work extensively with DB2 (SQL, stored procedures, performance tuning); with IMS DB/DC for transactions and hierarchical databases; and VSAM/GSAM for file handling and access methods.
• Utilize tools such as TSO/ISPF, SDSF, File Manager, and Debugger.

Modernization Support

• Support transformation initiatives by identifying candidates for refactor, replatform, or rewrite; mapping legacy logic to modern services and APIs.
• Batch‑to‑real‑time processing transition.
• Collaborate with architects on Strangler Fig implementation.

Integration & Interfaces

• Analyze and support integrations using IBM MQ Series, SFTP, and batch file transfers.

Basic Qualifications

• Minimum 10+ years of experience in IBM z/OS mainframe environments.
• Experience with:
  • COBOL (batch and online)
  • VSAM/GSAM file systems
  • IMS DB/DC (preferred)
• Experience with:
  • TSO/ISPF, SDSF, and standard mainframe utilities
• Experience in large-scale transaction processing systems (preferably MMIS or financial systems).

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with Medicaid/MMIS or healthcare claims systems.
• Exposure to mainframe modernization tools and strategies.
• Familiarity with:
  • API enablement of legacy systems
  • Data migration to cloud platforms
• Understanding of CMS SMC or regulatory environments (nice to have).
• Project lead experience.
• Strong analytical and reverse engineering capabilities.
• Ability to interpret complex batch workflows and dependencies.
• Collaboration with architects, SMEs, and modernization teams.
• Clear documentation and communication skills.
• Bachelor's in computer science or related field.

Benefits

The starting pay range for this role is $77,120–$145,240. Actual compensation will depend on a number of factors, including the candidate’s relevant experience, technical skills, and other qualifications. This position may also be eligible for incentive compensation based on individual and/or company performance. This position is eligible for company benefits including medical, dental, and vision insurance with an employer contribution, flexible spending or health savings account, life and AD&D insurance, short and long‑term disability coverage, paid time off, employee assistance, participation in a 401(k) program with company match, and additional voluntary or legally-required benefits.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

NTT DATA is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. For our EEO Policy Statement, please click here. If you'd like more information on your EEO rights under the law, please click here. For Pay Transparency information, please click here.