We are seeking an experienced Senior Developer / Lead to drive the conversion of legacy SAS programs running on an IBM z/OS mainframe to up-to-date target languages (Python, SQL, COBOL) as part of a large-scale SAS decoupling initiative. This is a hands-on technical leadership role combining deep mainframe and SAS expertise with the ability to guide a team through AI-assisted conversion, manual remediation, and production cutover of mission-critical financial services workloads.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the analysis, classification, and conversion of SAS programs (Inline SAS and Called SAS) and associated JCLs from the IBM z/OS mainframe to Python, SQL, or COBOL.
- Review and validate AI-generated code conversions produced by the Cosmos AI accelerator platform, ensuring functional accuracy and adherence to coding standards.
- Establish and maintain Python execution within the mainframe Unix System Services (USS) environment, including integration with JCL-triggered batch processes.
- Perform deep-dive analysis of complex SAS programs, including macro logic, PROC SQL,
and statistical procedures, to determine the optimal target language and conversion approach.
- Identify and document dependencies between JCLs and SAS programs, including cases where a single SAS program is called by multiple JCLs.
- Flag and appropriately route SAS programs with dependencies on systems also targeted for decommissioning (e.g., TIW), avoiding rework against deprecated targets.
- Design and execute unit testing and output parity validation, comparing converted program output against the original SAS baseline.
- Mentor and provide technical direction to a team of conversion developers; review code, resolve technical blockers, and ensure delivery quality across the conversion factory.
- Collaborate with Thrivent SMEs, data owners, and architecture teams to validate business logic and secure sign-off on converted programs.
- Support production cutover activities, including parallel run vali