Mainframe IMS Solution Architect - Remote

Mainframe IMS Solution Architect - Remote in US

Company: NTT DATA Services

NTT DATA strives to hire exceptional, innovative and passionate individuals who want to grow with us. If you want to be part of an inclusive, adaptable, and forward-thinking organization, apply now.

We are currently seeking a Mainframe IMS Solution Architect - Remote in US to join our team in Ann Arbor, Michigan (US-MI), United States (US).

Remote Position in US, but if located near Ann Arbor, the expectation would work in a hybrid setting. If you are not local to this location, we will require flexibility to travel minimally to client’s location in Ann Arbor, Michigan per client needs.

• Product Install/Upgrade – Install, upgrade, maintenance and customization with usermods.
• Supporting Product Support – Managing supporting software products.
• CICS Configuration – Configure CICS and set up subsystem connectivity; plan, test and implement IMS software upgrades, RSU, and feature enhancements.
• IMS/TM and IMS/DB Architecture – Deep understanding of IMS/TM and IMS/DB subsystems, message processing regions, and how IMS fits within a z/OS Sysplex.
• Database Management – Define and maintain IMS databases using DBDs and PSBs, controlling segmentation, and executing DL/I utilities.
• Programming – Develop and maintain IMS applications in COBOL, write exits in Assembler, and automate tasks with REXX.
• System Administration – Install, configure and patch IMS regions; manage control blocks; orchestrate deployments via SMP/E or z/OSMF; manage SYSGEN and connectivity for MQ, CICS and DB2; also LU6.2 and NJE connectivity.
• Performance Tuning – Monitor transaction and database performance, adjust buffer pools, and optimize logging and threading to meet SLAs.
• Troubleshooting – Diagnose transaction failures, database lock contention, and communication errors using trace tools and dumps.
• Backup and Recovery – Implement IMS restart strategies (cold, warm, concurrent) and integrate with DFSMShsm for log retention and recovery.
• Integration – Link IMS to CICS, DB2, MQ, web services, and use IMS Connect or GATEWAY for cross-platform transactions.
• Documentation and Communication – Produce runbooks, architecture diagrams, change‑control records, and coordinate with developers, DBAs and operations teams.
• Continuous Learning – Stay current with IBM Redbooks, IMS enhancements, vendor training and industry best practices.

• 12+ years of Mainframe experience.
• Must have database management experience.

• Soft Skills
  • Communication – Clearly convey technical concepts and status updates to both technical and non‑technical stakeholders; work effectively with developers, DBAs, operations teams and vendors.
  • Analytical – Break down complex system behaviors into root causes, leverage reasoning for troubleshooting and design decisions; adapt quickly to new releases and priorities.
  • Attention to Detail – Meticulously review configuration parameters, job streams and change‑control documentation to prevent errors.
  • Time Management – Prioritize tasks such as maintenance, incident response and projects to meet SLAs.
  • Customer Focus – Anticipate and respond to internal customers’ needs by delivering reliable IMS services and guidance.
  • Resilience – Maintain composure under pressure and work methodically toward resolution.
  • Mentoring & Coaching – Share expertise with junior engineers through peer reviews, training sessions and documentation.

• Designing IMS/TM regions, IMS/DB structure setup
  • Proficiency:
    Advanced
  • Tools/Technologies: IMS/TM, IMS/DB, IMS Connect, GATEWAY
• Mainframe OS & Utilities
  • Proficiency:
    Advanced
  • Tools: z/OS, SMP/E, JES2, JCL, TSO/ISPF, DFSMS
• Database Management
  • Proficiency:
    Advanced
  • Tools: DL/I, DBDGEN, PSBGEN, IEBGENER, File-AID, RECON
• Programming Skills
  • Proficiency:
    Intermediate
  • Tools: COBOL, HLASM, REXX, ISPF
• System Administration
  • Proficiency:
    Intermediate
  • Tools:
    Region installs, PTF deployments, SMP/E and z/OSMF use
• Performance Tuning
  • Proficiency:
    Intermediate
  • Tools:
    Buffer tuning, logging optimization, workload balancing; RMF, SMF, OMEGAMON, IMS Performance Analyzer
• Troubleshooting
  • Proficiency:
    Advanced
  • Tools:
    Dump analysis, trace capture, log interpretation; IPCS, SLIP, IMS logs, dump analyzers
• Backup & Recovery
  • Proficiency:
    Intermediate
  • Tools: DFSMShsm, FDR, ABARS
• Integration Skills
  • Proficiency:
    Intermediate
  • Tools: IMS Connect, MQSeries, JDBC, web services
• Documentation & Communication
  • Proficiency:
    Advanced
  • Maintaining product updates, certifications, community participation

NTT DATA is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.

Nearest Major Market:
Ann Arbor

Nearest Secondary Market:
Detroit

Job Segment:
Solution Architect, Developer, Mainframe, Database, Testing, Technology