CICS Systems Programmer - Mainframe - Remote

About the Role

As a CICS Systems Programmer, you will be part of a team responsible for the day-to-day management of mainframe applications, working closely with other technical teams to resolve issues and improve overall system performance. Your expertise will be crucial in identifying and addressing technical problems, implementing best practices, and contributing to the continuous improvement of the mainframe environment.

The role involves working independently as well as collaboratively, communicating effectively with both technical and non-technical stakeholders, and demonstrating a strong commitment to delivering high-quality results. Given the critical nature of the mainframe applications, the ability to work under pressure, prioritize tasks effectively, and manage multiple projects simultaneously is essential.

What You Will Do

• Perform problem tracking, diagnosis, and root-cause analysis for complex technical issues
• Replicate, troubleshoot, and resolve issues, applying programming and debugging skills as necessary
• Respond to incidents and service tickets in a timely and professional manner
• Analyze trends in technical issues and develop recommendations for long-term improvements
• Document end-user interactions and steps taken to resolve incidents
• Communicate the status of issue resolution to internal customers
• Engage and manage outside vendors as required
• Apply in-depth knowledge of application support and best practices to resolve issues
• Lead moderately complex projects and participate in larger initiatives
• Solve complex technical and operational problems, acting as a resource for less experienced teammates
• May have people management responsibilities for a small team

What We Are Looking For

• Bachelor's degree and at least five years of experience in development or application support, or an equivalent combination of education and work experience
• In-depth knowledge of information systems and the ability to identify, apply, and implement best practices
• Understanding of key business processes and competitive strategies related to the IT function
• Ability to plan and manage projects effectively
• Strong problem-solving skills, with the ability to apply best practices to complex technical issues
• Ability to provide direction and mentor less experienced teammates
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to interpret and convey complex, difficult, or sensitive information

Nice to Have

• Bachelor's degree and six years of experience, or an equivalent combination of education and work experience
• Banking or financial services experience
• Administration experience with multiple CICS Production, Development, and Test environments in a multiple LPAR mainframe environment
• Current CICS knowledge, with mainframe MQ skills being a plus
• Experience with CICS Explorer, WUI, Omegamon, and strong troubleshooting skills (IPCS, FileAid)

Benefits and Perks

• Competitive compensation package
• Opportunities for professional growth and development
• Flexible, remote work environment
• Access to cutting-edge technology and tools
• Comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, retirement planning, and paid time off
• Recognition and reward for outstanding performance
• Collaborative, dynamic work environment with a team of experienced professionals
• Continuous learning and training opportunities to enhance technical skills and stay up-to-date with industry trends
• Flexible working hours to accommodate different time zones and work styles
• A culture that values innovation, diversity, and inclusion
• Access to mental health resources and employee wellness programs
• Recognition of work-life balance and support for remote workers

• Highlight your problem-solving skills: Showcase specific examples of complex technical issues you've resolved in the past, emphasizing your approach and the tools you used.
• Stay current with mainframe technology: Demonstrate your knowledge of the latest trends and advancements in mainframe management, including cloud integration and security best practices.
• Prepare for technical interviews: Review common interview questions related to CICS, mainframe administration, and problem-solving, and practice explaining technical concepts in a clear, concise manner.
• Emphasize your experience with remote collaboration tools: Given the remote nature of the role, highlight your experience with remote work platforms, project management tools, and communication software.
• Showcase your ability to work under pressure: Provide examples of situations where you had to manage multiple projects or resolve critical issues under tight deadlines, demonstrating your ability to prioritize tasks and manage stress.
• Be prepared to discuss your experience with vendor management: If applicable, be ready to talk about your experience engaging and managing outside vendors, including how you ensure effective communication and service delivery.
• Demonstrate your commitment to continuous learning: Express your enthusiasm for ongoing education and training in mainframe technology and related fields, highlighting any certifications, courses, or conferences you've attended.