IMB z Systems Programmer

IBM z Systems Programmer with Focus on Database/DB2 

 

Location: 100% Remote 

Form of employment: B2B/Contract of employment

Overview:
We are seeking an experienced IBM z Systems Programmer with a specialization in database management, particularly DB2. In this role, you will be responsible for the implementation, operation, evergreening and optimization of DB2 environments on IBM z Systems. You will ensure that DB2 databases are highly available, secure, and perform efficiently.

Requirements

• Several years of experience as a systems programmer in the IBM z/OS environment with a focus on DB2.
• Strong knowledge of DB2 for z/OS and Broadcom/CA tool for Db2, including installation, configuration, tuning, and troubleshooting.
• Experience with SQL, JCL, REXX, and tools for database automation and monitoring.
• Familiarity with DB2 utilities (e.g., LOAD, REORG, RUNSTATS) and backup strategies.
• Proficiency in database performance optimization and query tuning.
• Familiarity with SMP/E for software installation and maintenance

 

Key Responsibilities:

1.Database Administration and Maintenance:

• Upgrade DB2 data sharing and non-data sharing subsystem environments to ensure stability and optimal performance.
• Apply planned maintenance refreshes to supported DB2 environments to maintain software currency and functionality 
• Perform backup and recovery processes as well as performance tuning
• Install, support, and customize licensed Db2 V13/12 software and related tools like Broadcom/CA tools for Db2 , Guardium ,SYSVIEW for DB2 in both data sharing and non-data sharing environments.
• Execute database management activities, including backups, restores, reorganizations, and runstats to ensure data integrity and availability.
• Build new DB2 subsystem environments or relocate existing ones as per project requirements.
• Perform routine system administration tasks in support of the DB2 subsystem environments (e.g., DB2 ZPARM, GRANTS, etc.).

 

2. Troubleshooting and Performance Optimization:

• Proactively monitor and maintain production databases, identifying and addressing issues before they impact system performance.
• Perform database performance tuning and query optimization to improve overall efficiency
• Provide support in troubleshooting and incident management in production environments.
• Provide timely resolution to DB2 software-related issues and collaborate with technical support teams to troubleshoot and resolve problems.
• Use REXX scripts for mainframe automation and efficient interaction with DB2 databases.
• Manage software fixes across supported DB2 platforms using tools like SMP/E.
• Ensure compliance with security policies and regulatory requirements (e.g., GDPR).
• Implement and monitor access control mechanisms for sensitive databases

 

5. Continuous Support:

• Take part in the team’s on-call ROTA to provide support outside regular working hours.
• Provide ongoing support to production databases and related systems.
• Monitor system performance and proactively address potential issues before they impact operations.
• Maintain a high level of availability and responsiveness to address urgent system or database problems.
• Deliver continuous improvement to DB2 environments through best practices, updates, and optimizations.
• Willingness to take on other responsibilities (non-DB2 related) in the IBM z team, depending on experience and knowledge.