Job Summary
This hybrid role seeks a seasoned technical lead with seven to eleven years of experience in IBM mainframe utilities CICS VSAM JCL DB2 and Cobol responsible for guiding complex application development and maintenance. The role focuses on delivering stable secure and high performing systems that support core business processes and create reliable outcomes for clients and society.
Responsibilities
Drive complex mainframe application design and development activities using Cobol DB2 CICS VSAM and IBM mainframe utilities to deliver stable and scalable business solutions that meet client expectations and organizational standards.Oversee end to end batch and online processing flows using JCL and CICS regions to ensure predictable performance robust error handling and timely completion of critical business jobs.Analyze business requirements and translate them into detailed technical specifications that make optimal use of DB2 schemas VSAM files utilities and Cobol programs to support efficient data processing.Review existing Cobol and JCL components to identify optimization opportunities and implement code improvements that enhance runtime efficiency resource utilization and long term maintainability.Coordinate impact assessments for change requests by evaluating dependencies across DB2 objects VSAM datasets CICS transactions and scheduling chains to minimize risk of production disruptions.Perform detailed root cause analysis for incidents on mainframe applications by examining logs dumps and performance statistics to quickly restore service and implement durable corrective actions.Collaborate with cross functional stakeholders in a hybrid work model to clarify requirements communicate design choices and align technical solutions with broader enterprise architecture and compliance guidelines.Implement robust unit testing component testing and integration testing strategies for Cobol programs JCL streams and CICS transactions to improve quality and reduce defects in higher environments.Document technical solutions data flows operational procedures and recovery steps in a clear and structured manner so that support teams can efficiently manage day to day operations and incident resolution.Mentor less experienced engineers on mainframe development practices code review standards and troubleshooting techniques so that the team consistently delivers reliable and secure solutions.Engage in performance tuning activities across DB2 queries VSAM access patterns and batch schedules to reduce processing windows and support better service levels for business users.Coordinate implementation activities for releases in day shifts by preparing deployment plans rollback strategies and validation steps that ensure smooth and predictable production rollouts.Partner with quality and security teams to ensure that mainframe applications comply with internal controls audit requirements and secure coding practices that protect sensitive enterprise data.Drive continuous improvement initiatives by identifying automation opportunities within IBM mainframe utilities job scheduling and monitoring to enhance productivity and reduce manual operational effort.
Qualifications
Demonstrate strong hands on experience in Cobol programming JCL scripting and IBM mainframe utilities with a proven record of delivering complex enhancements and production support in large scale environments.Exhibit deep understanding of CICS concepts including transactions programs maps and resource definitions with the ability to diagnose and resolve issues impacting online user interactions.Show advanced skills in DB2 design SQL tuning and data modeling along with practical experience managing DB2 objects statistics and utilities in support of critical business applications.Display solid knowledge of VSAM including keyed and alternate indexes file organizations and access methods to design resilient and high performance data storage structures.Bring practical exposure to structured software development life cycles change management processes and defect tracking tools so that deliverables follow consistent quality and governance practices.Possess strong analytical and problem solving abilities with the capacity to investigate complex production issues assess options and recommend pragmatic solutions within tight timeframes.Communicate clearly with technical and non technical stakeholders in both written and spoken form enabling effective collaboration in a hybrid work setup without the need for frequent travel.
About Cognizant
Cognizant (Nasdaq: CTSH) is an AI Builder and technology services provider, bridging the gap between AI investment and enterprise value by building full-stack AI solutions for our clients. Our deep industry, process and engineering expertise enables us to build an organization’s unique context into technology systems that amplify human potential, drive tangible outcomes and keep global enterprises ahead in a fast-changing world. See how at cognizant.ai or @cognizant.
Additional employment information
Compensation information is accurate as of the date of this posting. Cognizant reserves the right to modify this information at any time, subject to applicable law.
Applicants may be required to attend interviews in person or by video conference. In addition, candidates may be required to present their current state or government issued ID during each interview.
Cognizant is an equal opportunity employer. Your application and candidacy will not be considered based on race, color, sex, religion, creed, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, veteran status or any other characteristic protected by federal, provincial or local laws.