Mainframe System / Network Architect (z/OS

TechDigital Group; Illinois; Hybrid; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

TechDigital Group is seeking skilled professionals to manage Mainframe Networking & Infrastructure. This role focuses on supporting and optimizing z/OS environments, handling both installation and integration across critical systems.

The ideal candidate will have expertise in Sysplex configuration and a strong understanding of mainframe networking protocols. Responsibilities include system performance analysis, project leadership in upgrades, and ensuring high availability and security across all environments.

Qualifications

• Strong experience with z/OS system programming and architecture.
• Expertise in Sysplex configuration and LPAR management.
• Knowledge of JCL and various utilities.

Responsibilities

• Lead the installation and configuration of z/OS environments.
• Design and manage Sysplex integration and CFRM policies.
• Perform performance analysis and capacity planning.

Skills

z/OS Architecture & Sysplex Integration

Mainframe Networking

Mainframe Infrastructure & Performance Engineering

Tools

SMP/E

IOCP

HCD

PARMLIB

Job description

What are the top 3 skills required for this role?

1. z/OS Architecture & Sysplex Integration
2. Mainframe Networking (SNA, VTAM, TCP/IP, OSA, OSPF)
3. Mainframe Infrastructure & Performance Engineering

Job Description / Responsibilities

Mainframe Networking & Infrastructure

• Manage and support Mainframe Networking Protocols: SNA, VTAM, TCP/IP
• Configure and maintain OSA (Open System Adapter) networking interfaces
• Strong understanding of Enterprise Network Infrastructure and Security
• Knowledge of routing protocols such as Open Shortest Path First (OSPF)
• Manage z/OS network communications, connectivity, and performance optimization

System Programming & Architecture Skills

• Strong experience in z/OS System Programming and System z architecture
• Expertise in Sysplex configuration, LPAR management, and system integration
• Hands‑on with SMP/E, IOCP, HCD, PARMLIB, and system configurations
• Install and maintain z/OS releases, RSU maintenance, and ISV products
• Knowledge of JCL, utilities, batch and online processing environments

Key Responsibilities

• Lead installation, configuration, and upgrading of z/OS environments across development and production systems
• Design and manage z/OS architecture, Sysplex integration, and CFRM policies
• Handle hardware and software upgrade projects, including datacenter migration and exit planning
• Perform performance analysis, tuning, capacity planning, and workload management (WLM)
• Monitor system software access, performance, and resource utilization
• Manage and maintain z/OS, JES3 environments and ISV software
• Work closely with application teams to ensure production stability and issue resolution
• Define and enforce security, access control, and software usage policies
• Implement and validate backup, recovery, and disaster recovery (DR) procedures
• Ensure high availability, system reliability, and environment stability
• Support incident/problem determination and resolution within SLA timelines
• Provide technical leadership, mentoring, and guidance to teams