COBOL Mainframe Developer

As a COBOL Mainframe Developer at GDOL, your primary responsibilities include translating analysis and design documents into structured programming solutions, maintaining and enhancing custom software, and providing production support. You will also review existing code, run tests on program changes, and assist with the transition to web-based applications, ensuring that all modifications enhance efficiency and comply with organizational guidelines.

To apply for the COBOL Mainframe Developer position at GDOL, candidates must possess a minimum of 5 years of experience in COBOL development on mainframes, alongside expertise in JCL and DB2. Strong analytical skills, excellent communication abilities, and experience in creating comprehensive documentation are essential qualifications. Familiarity with Java programming, AWS, Postgres DB, and Kofax will also give candidates an edge.

In the COBOL Mainframe Developer role at GDOL, proficiency in COBOL and JCL programming is essential. Additionally, familiarity with DB2, Control-M, and a solid understanding of the full software development lifecycle will serve you well. Skills in Java programming, AWS, and Postgres DB, while not mandatory, are considered valuable for potential candidates.

At GDOL, we actively encourage the growth and development of our COBOL Mainframe Developers by providing them with challenging projects that enhance their technical skills. The environment fosters collaboration and knowledge sharing while also facilitating the transition from COBOL applications to modern web-based solutions, thus allowing developers to expand their skill set in newer technologies.

The COBOL Mainframe Developer position at GDOL is explicitly required to be onsite in Metro Atlanta, thus eliminating opportunities for remote work. This decision allows for better collaboration and support among team members, ensuring the quality and effectiveness of projects.

When answering this question, highlight specific projects where you've used COBOL, detailing the challenges faced and the outcomes. Discuss how your expertise helped streamline processes or improve efficiency within the project.

Explain your systematic approach to debugging. Mention tools you use, such as tracing or logging, and how you ensure that issues are resolved effectively while minimizing downtime.

Share specific examples of how you've utilized JCL to manage jobs effectively in your projects. Discuss your understanding of job control statements and how they integrate with COBOL programs.

Discuss the importance of testing, review processes, and how you engage with your team for code walkthroughs. Highlight any testing methodologies you've employed to maintain high standards of code quality.

Mention specific data analysis tools you are comfortable with, such as IBM tools or Microsoft analytics platforms. Discuss how you've used these tools to support decision-making and improve application performance.

Offer a detailed account of this experience, emphasizing your role, the technologies involved, the challenges you encountered, and how the transition improved user experience or functionality.

Share strategies for time management and prioritization, and provide an example where you successfully met a challenging deadline without compromising quality.

Discuss any relevant courses, certifications, or online resources you follow to stay current. Mention how you apply this knowledge to enhance your work and contribute to your team's success.

Explain the importance of thorough documentation for both users and developers and discuss the strategies you use to ensure that documentation is clear, concise, and easily accessible.

Highlight your ability to foster open communication, share knowledge, and collaborate effectively. Discuss an example of how good communication led to a successful project outcome.