Systems Programmer – z/OS System Support (Mainframe Sysprog)

Blue Pearl PTY; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 500,000 - 700,000; Full time

Job summary

A technology solutions provider seeks a Systems Programmer for Z/OS system support in Cape Town, South Africa. The successful candidate will handle installation, configuration, and maintenance of IBM z/OS systems, ensuring high availability and reliability. Responsibilities include troubleshooting system-level issues, managing software maintenance, and monitoring system performance. Experience with Z/OS architecture and strong analytical skills are vital for success in this critical environment.

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Systems Programmer supporting IBM z/OS environments.
• Strong knowledge of z/OS architecture, system utilities, and subsystems.
• Experience with SMP/E, system libraries, and software installations.
• Ability to troubleshoot complex system-level issues.

Responsibilities

• Install, configure, maintain, and upgrade IBM z/OS operating systems.
• Perform system-level problem determination and resolution, including root cause analysis.
• Manage SMP/E software maintenance, system libraries, and system configurations.
• Monitor and tune system performance to ensure optimal availability.
• Support system security controls, compliance standards, and audit requirements.

Skills

Z/OS architecture knowledge

Troubleshooting skills

Documentation skills

Communication skills

Education

IBM or mainframe-related certifications

Tools

SMP/E

Mainframe security tools (e.g., RACF, ACF2, or Top Secret)

Job description

Cape Town, South Africa | Posted on 02/09/2026

The Systems Programmer – z/OS System Support is responsible for the installation, configuration, maintenance, and support of IBM z/OS mainframe systems. The role ensures high availability, performance, security, and reliability of mainframe environments supporting critical enterprise applications.

Key Responsibilities

• Install, configure, maintain, and upgrade IBM z/OS operating systems and related system software.
• Perform system-level problem determination and resolution, including root cause analysis.
• Manage SMP/E software maintenance, system libraries, and system configurations.
• Monitor and tune system performance to ensure optimal availability and capacity.
• Support system security controls, compliance standards, and audit requirements.
• Participate in disaster recovery planning and testing.
• Provide 2nd and 3rd level support for z/OS system-related incidents.
• Collaborate with application, infrastructure, and operations teams.
• Maintain accurate system documentation, procedures, and standards.

Requirements

• Proven experience as a Systems Programmer supporting IBM z/OS environments.
• Strong knowledge of z/OS architecture, system utilities, and subsystems.
• Experience with SMP/E, system libraries, and software installations.
• Ability to troubleshoot complex system-level issues.
• Strong documentation and communication skills.

Preferred Requirements

• Experience in large enterprise or public sector mainframe environments.
• Knowledge of mainframe security tools (e.g. RACF, ACF2, or Top Secret).
• Exposure to capacity planning, performance tuning, and automation tools.
• Relevant IBM or mainframe-related certifications.
• Analytical and problem-solving skills
• Attention to detail and reliability
• Ability to work under pressure in critical environments
• Strong teamwork and stakeholder collaboration