Job Description
Position : zOS Resiliency Specialist - Data Management
Location : Remote, EST time Zone (Candidates can be located anywhere in Canada)
Duration : 18 months
We at Raise we are hiring a zOS Resiliency Specialist - Data Management for one of our top clients. After establishing themselves as an industry leader, they’re now expanding their team to meet rising demand. We’re hiring right now; if you’re interested, apply below for your chance to join a great place to work.
Overview
A zOS System Programmer specializing in data replication setup for data center migration plays an integral role in ensuring smooth transitions of data between mainframe environments. This specialist focuses on preparing and executing replication strategies that facilitate seamless data center migrations, ensuring data integrity, consistency, and minimal downtime. Below are the essential skills and qualifications required for this role.
Technical Skills
1. Configuration Experience
- Replication Configuration : Extensive hands-on experience in configuring replication setups on z / OS, including defining and managing source and target data sources (e.g., databases, files, datasets).
- System Parameters : Advanced proficiency in configuring system parameters and settings for optimal replication performance and reliability.
- Automation : Experience with automating replication tasks using JCL, REXX, and automation tools such as IBM Tivoli System Automation for z / OS (SA z / OS).
- Problem Resolution : Advanced skills in troubleshooting and resolving configuration issues related to replication in a z / OS environment.
- z / OS Configuration : Extensive knowledge and expertise in z / OS system configuration, particularly in relation to setting up and optimizing replication environments. This includes configuring storage groups, defining communication paths, and setting up replication targets and sources.
2. z / OS Expertise
z / OS Operating System : Comprehensive knowledge of the z / OS operating system, including its architecture, subsystems, and workload management.TSO / ISPF : Advanced proficiency in using Time Sharing Option / Interactive System Productivity Facility (TSO / ISPF) for mainframe operations, including editing, managing datasets, and running batch jobs.JCL : In-depth expertise in Job Control Language (JCL) for creating, submitting, and managing batch jobs, including complex job streams and conditional processing.3. Data Replication Technologies
Data Replication Tools : Extensive experience with various data replication tools and technologies used in z / OS environments, such as IBM GDPS (Geographically Dispersed Parallel Sysplex) and IBM z / OS Global Mirror.DB2 for z / OS : Proficient in DB2 database replication techniques, including Q Replication, SQL Replication, and CDC (Change Data Capture) for z / OS.Data Migration : Expertise in data migration and synchronization between mainframe and other platforms, including non-relational data stores, VSAM datasets, and flat files.4. Storage and Networking
Storage Management : Advanced skills in storage management and configuration on z / OS, including DFSMS (Data Facility Storage Management Subsystem), DFSMShsm (Hierarchical Storage Manager), and VSAM (Virtual Storage Access Method).Networking : In-depth understanding of mainframe networking concepts, including TCP / IP, SNA (Systems Network Architecture), VTAM (Virtual Telecommunications Access Method), and Enterprise Extender5. Additional Technical Skills
RACF : Advanced knowledge of Resource Access Control Facility (RACF) for security administration and access control on z / OS.MQ Series : Proficient in IBM MQ Series for message-oriented middleware on the mainframe, including setup, administration, and tuning.COBOL : Expertise in COBOL programming for developing and maintaining mainframe applications, with a focus on data handling and file processing.REXX : Proficiency in REXX scripting for automation, task management, and customization of z / OS environments.CICS : Advanced understanding of Customer Information Control System (CICS) for transaction processing on the mainframe, including regions, transactions, and resource definitions.Performance Monitoring Tools : Experience with performance monitoring and tuning tools such as OMEGAMON, MainView, and RMF (Resource Measurement Facility).Analytical and Problem-Solving Skills
Troubleshooting : Exceptional ability to diagnose and resolve complex replication issues quickly and effectively.Performance Tuning : Expertise in performance tuning methodologies for optimizing replication processes and system resource utilization.Data Integrity : Ensuring data integrity and consistency throughout the replication process by implementing robust validation and verification procedures.Communication and Collaboration
Documentation : Ability to create comprehensive documentation for replication setups, processes, and troubleshooting guides, ensuring clarity and accuracy.Team Collaboration : Strong interpersonal skills to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams, including database administrators, system programmers, and network engineers.Client Interaction : Experience in interacting with clients to understand requirements, provide updates, and deliver tailored solutions that meet their specific needs.Additional Requirements
Certifications :
Relevant certifications such as IBM Certified System Administrator - z / OS, IBM Certified Database Administrator - DB2 for z / OS, and certifications in data replication technologies are highly desirable.Experience :
Minimum of 5-7 years of experience in z / OS environments with a focus on data replication, system integration, and data center migration projects.Conclusion
A zOS System Programmer specializing in data replication setup for data center migration must possess a robust combination of advanced technical knowledge, analytical skills, and effective communication abilities. These professionals are critical to ensuring the seamless replication and migration of data in mission-critical environments, significantly contributing to the stability, efficiency, and success of enterprise IT operations.