Mainframe Developer

ARK Solutions, Inc.; Des Moines (IA); Presencial; USD 83.000 - 124.000; Jornada completa

Descripción de la vacante

ARK Solutions, Inc. seeks a Mainframe Developer to support the modernization of a statewide eligibility system in Des Moines, IA. You will develop, test, and maintain COBOL/JCL programs that enable ICAR-EDEN data exchange, enhance batch workflows, and assist with legacy modernization efforts.

The role involves analyzing interfaces, collaborating with analysts and architects, and ensuring data integrity across file-based processes and mainframe environments.

Formación

• 3+ years in each required technical skill.
• Strong COBOL, JCL, and batch processing knowledge.
• Experience with IDMS or comparable mainframe databases.
• Experience with VSAM datasets and file-processing applications.
• Experience supporting integrations and data-exchange processes.
• Analytical, communicative, and problem-solving abilities.

Responsabilidades

• Develop, enhance, and maintain COBOL/JCL programs for ICAR/EDEN integration.
• Modify file layouts, data mappings, and transformation logic.
• Improve batch workflows, GDG structures, and VSAM datasets.
• Troubleshoot production processes and support modernization efforts.
• Translate requirements into technical specs; document interfaces.

Conocimientos

COBOL programming

JCL

VSAM datasets

IDMS database development

Batch processing

GDG management

FTP/SFTP processing

CA7 / Control-M

Legacy modernization

Data transformation & interface maps

Herramientas

CA7

Control-M

FTP/SFTP tooling

Descripción del empleo

Duration: 6+ Month Contract, Highly possible for long-term extension

Interview Mode: Webcam or In Person

Client Location: Des Moines, IA 50319

Project Overview

Undertaking a major modernization initiative to replace its aging eligibility platform with a new statewide eligibility system (EDEN).

As part of this initiative, the existing Child Support Enforcement system (ICAR) must continue exchanging critical data with the new platform through file-based interfaces and batch processes.

The Mainframe Developer will support the integration and transition between the legacy child support application and the new eligibility platform by developing, enhancing, testing, and maintaining mainframe applications and interfaces.

Mainframe Application Development

• Develop, enhance, and maintain COBOL and JCL programs supporting ICAR and EDEN integration.
• Modify file layouts, data mappings, transformation logic, and validation routines.
• Enhance batch processing workflows, GDG structures, and VSAM datasets.
• Maintain and troubleshoot existing mainframe applications and production processes.
• Support modernization activities involving legacy eligibility data sources.

Technical Analysis and Design

• Translate business and functional requirements into technical specifications.
• Analyze existing mainframe applications and integration points.
• Support applications interacting with IDMS databases, including schema and subschema navigation.
• Perform record-level and field-level analysis of inbound and outbound interfaces.
• Identify dependencies and risks associated with legacy and modern system integration.
• Maintain technical documentation, process flows, and interface specifications.

Testing and Quality Assurance

• Develop and execute unit test scenarios for COBOL programs and batch jobs.
• Support system, integration, regression, and user acceptance testing.
• Investigate and resolve technical defects.
• Validate end-to-end file exchanges and data processing.
• Ensure data quality and processing accuracy.

Deployment and Production Support

• Develop and maintain JCL, PROCs, scheduling definitions, and operational documentation.
• Support implementation, migration, and production deployment activities.
• Assist with cutover planning and execution.
• Troubleshoot production incidents, file processing failures, and data discrepancies.
• Prepare operational runbooks and monitoring procedures.
• Work with business analysts, architects, developers, testers, and project managers.
• Participate in design reviews, technical walkthroughs, and sprint planning.
• Communicate technical risks, issues, and recommendations.
• Support knowledge transfer and technical documentation.

Required Technical Skills

• COBOL programming
• JCL (Job Control Language)
• VSAM datasets, indexing, REPRO and DEFINE utilities
• IDMS database development and support
• IDMS schema/subschema concepts and database navigation
• IDMS COBOL integration
• Batch processing development and support
• Flat file design and parsing
• Data transformation and interface mapping
• GDG management and dataset lifecycle administration
• FTP/SFTP processing and troubleshooting
• Automated file transfer processes
• CA7, Control-M, or equivalent enterprise scheduling tools
• Legacy system modernization
• Multi-system data integration and interface support
• Technical specification interpretation
• Root cause analysis and troubleshooting

Required Qualifications

• Minimum 3 years of experience in each listed required technical skill.
• Strong COBOL, JCL, and batch processing knowledge.
• Experience with IDMS or comparable mainframe database technologies.
• Experience working with VSAM datasets and file-processing applications.
• Experience supporting application integrations and data exchange processes.
• Experience analyzing and modifying legacy applications.
• Strong analytical, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience supporting Child Support Enforcement systems or Human Services programs.
• Experience with eligibility systems, public assistance systems, or government modernization projects.
• Experience with large-scale legacy modernization initiatives.
• Knowledge of production support, release management, and deployment practices.
• Experience working in Agile or hybrid project environments.