Mainframe Systems Engineer (SYSPROG)

Gijima Holdings; Midrand; On-site; ZAR 800 000 - 1 000 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading technology firm located in Midrand is seeking an experienced professional to lead and optimize mainframe systems. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in mainframe systems administration and technical leadership. You will oversee installation, maintenance, and the alignment of technical solutions with business objectives, ensuring system stability for critical applications.

Qualifications

• Grade 12 (NQF4) plus a Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience.
• 5+ years of experience in mainframe systems.
• Proven leadership in a mainframe environment.

Responsibilities

• Lead the installation and maintenance of mainframe hardware.
• Provide technical leadership for optimizing mainframe systems.
• Monitor and troubleshoot mainframe systems for stability.

Skills

Mainframe systems administration

Technical leadership

Problem-solving

Communication skills

Strategic thinking

Education

Bachelors degree in Computer Science or related field

Tools

IBM z / OS

COBOL

DB2

Job description

Required Qualifications & Experience :

• Grade 12 (NQF4) plus a Bachelors degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field, or equivalent experience.
• 57 years of hands‑on experience in mainframe systems administration, support, or development with SysProg experience.
• Proven experience in leading technical teams or projects in a mainframe environment.
• Strong knowledge of mainframe operating systems (IBM z / OS, z / Linux, z / VM), security (RACF, TopSecret), middleware (CICS), programming (COBOL, JCL, Easytrieve), and databases (DB2, IDMS).
• Experience with automation tools, monitoring systems, and hybrid cloud integrations with mainframes.
• Relevant certifications (e.g., IBM Certified Specialist) and ITIL certification are advantageous.

Key Responsibilities :

• Lead, plan, and oversee the installation, maintenance, and customization of mainframe hardware and software to support client business applications.
• Provide technical leadership in managing and optimizing mainframe systems (IBM z / OS, z / Linux, z / VM) and related infrastructure.
• Evaluate operational efficiencies and implement best practices to drive continuous improvement.
• Participate in the design, development, and implementation of Company and client strategies, aligning mainframe initiatives with business objectives.
• Monitor mainframe operating systems, troubleshoot complex issues, perform system tuning, and ensure system stability for critical business applications.
• Supervise day‑to‑day operations of technical support teams, ensuring optimal resource utilization and adherence to SLA requirements.
• Contribute to risk assessment, mitigation strategies, and business continuity planning.
• Stay abreast of the latest mainframe trends, tools, and technologies to maintain technical excellence.

Personal Attributes :

• Exceptional analytical and problem‑solving skills, capable of diagnosing and resolving complex technical issues.
• Excellent communication skills, able to articulate technical concepts to both technical and non‑technical stakeholders.
• Strategic thinker with the ability to align technical solutions with business objectives.