Mainframe Operations Specialist

Job Summary:

We are seeking a Mainframe Operations Specialist will take over the day-to-day operation of the IBM Z environment once it’s in production (post go-live). This is the classic operations role ensuring that the mainframe runs smoothly each day: managing batch job execution, monitoring consoles, handling routine backups, and being the first responder to any production issue. They will ensure the system meets the operational SLAs and that any issues are quickly escalated or resolved.

This position is contingent upon contract award. 

Job Duties and Responsibilities:

• Batch Job Management: Oversee the scheduling and execution of daily/weekly batch jobs on the mainframe. Use the established scheduling tools or JCL to submit jobs, and verify they complete successfully. Handle outputs, print jobs, and ensure reports are delivered. If a job fails, investigate the cause (check logs, dumps) and restart or fix JCL, or escalate to developers as needed.
• Console Monitoring: Monitor the system console and automation alerts for any system messages or warnings. Acknowledge and respond to messages (e.g., mount tape requests, security alerts, hardware messages). Maintain the operations log and follow standard operating procedures for any interventions.
• Routine Maintenance: Perform regular operational tasks like kick off backups, execute disaster recovery drills (if scheduled), manage storage allocations (ensure disks don’t fill up), and apply routine fixes or updates as instructed (under change management).
• Incident First Response: Act as first-line support for any production issues on the mainframe. For example, if a CICS region goes down or a critical job fails at 2 AM, the Ops Specialist will respond, attempt initial troubleshooting or remediation, and call in the SRE or system engineers if it’s beyond the operational runbook. They ensure swift communication of incidents to leadership per incident management protocols.
• Other duties as assigned. 

Job Requirements (Education/Skills/Experience):

• 5+ years in mainframe operations or systems support. Skilled in reading system logs, JES2/JES3 queues, and using operator commands on z/OS.
• Proficiency in JCL and utilities (DFSort, IEBGENER, etc.), and experience with job scheduling systems.
• Familiar with backup and restore procedures on mainframe, tape operations, and basic DASD management from an ops perspective.
• Strong problem-solving under pressure, and knowledge of when/how to escalate issues.
• Clearance: Active DoD Secret clearance required (operations will involve sensitive data processing).

Preferred Qualifications:

• ITIL Foundation or similar certification in IT service management (helps with understanding incident, problem, change processes).
• Experience working in a mission-critical 24x7 operations center.
• Familiarity with the specific mainframe applications in use (if any business knowledge is relevant).

Diné Development Corporation (DDC) is a Navajo Nation owned family of companies that delivers IT, professional, and environmental solutions to advance the missions of federal, state, and tribal government agencies. As thought leaders and innovators, our team of specialists build client-centric solutions that solve critical challenges faced by defense, civilian, and healthcare organizations. Employing a mission-focused approach, we deliver value that not only enhances current operations, but also drives future change. Closely aligned with this approach is our commitment to advancing the Navajo Nation and its People. Through economic development and community empowerment, we elevate the Navajo Nation to provide lasting impact and sustainable growth for future generations. DDC’s ability to unite legacy-inspired technologies, industry best practices, and proven methodologies has contributed to our success for twenty years.

This contractor and subcontractor shall abide by the requirements of 41 CFR 60-1.4(a), 60-300.5(a) and 60-741.5(a). These regulations prohibit discrimination against qualified individuals based on their status as protected veterans or individuals with disabilities, and prohibit discrimination against all individuals based on their race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or for inquiring about, discussing, or disclosing information about compensation, or any other basis prohibited by law. We participate in E-Verify.