Lead Developer Mainframe (IMS DBA / DB2 / z/VSE JCL / COBOL)

We are seeking an experienced Lead Developer with strong expertise in MF IMS System DBA, DB2, z/VSE JCL, and COBOL Batch Transformation. The ideal candidate will lead modernization initiatives for enterprise-critical mainframe applications, ensuring high availability, performance, security, and operational efficiency. This role requires deep technical expertise, leadership capabilities, and experience working in complex production environments.

Key Responsibilities

- Lead end-to-end design, development, and enhancement of IMS database administration activities.
- Manage and optimize DB2 databases to ensure high performance, scalability, and reliability.
- Drive COBOL batch transformation and modernization initiatives while maintaining functional integrity.
- Design, configure, schedule, and support z/VSE JCL job streams and batch processing workloads.
- Troubleshoot and resolve complex production issues across IMS, DB2, JCL, and COBOL environments.
- Conduct code reviews and enforce development standards, security guidelines, and best practices.
- Collaborate with business stakeholders and technical teams to translate requirements into robust technical solutions.
- Manage setting readiness, deployment planning, data refreshes, and release coordination activities.
- Continuously improve monitoring, alerting, performance tuning, and operational support processes.
- Maintain comprehensive technical documentation, operational procedures, and system architecture details.
- Support data capture, validation, and screening processes to enhance data quality and business reporting.
- Mentor junior developers and support teams on mainframe technologies and operational excellence.
- Ensure adherence to organizational governance, compliance, audit, and change management policies.

Required Technical Skills

Primary Skills

- MF IMS System Database Administration (IMS DBA)
- IBM DB2 Database Administration & Performance Tuning




- z/VSE JCL Development and Job Scheduling
- COBOL Batch Programming and Transformation
- Mainframe Production Support
- Database Design and Optimization
- Incident Management and Root Cause Analysis
- Performance Monitoring and Tuning

Secondary Skills
- Data Capture and Screening Processes
- Release and Environment Management
- Configuration and Change Management
- Mainframe Modernization Initiatives
- Documentation and Governance Compliance

Desired Candidate Profile
- Strong hands-on experience in IMS Database Administration, including schema management, utilities, and performance tuning.
- Expertise in DB2 database design, SQL optimization, and high-volume transaction processing environments.
- Extensive knowledge of z/VSE JCL scripting, batch job orchestration, scheduling, restart, and recovery strategies.
- Advanced COBOL development experience with batch processing and legacy modernization projects.
- Proven ability to troubleshoot complex production issues and implement sustainable solutions.
- Experience working in enterprise-scale environments supporting mission-critical applications.
- Strong analytical, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
- Ability to mentor team members and lead technical discussions.
- Experience with hybrid work environments and cross-functional collaboration.

Qualifications
- Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Engineering, or related discipline.
- 6 to 10 years of relevant experience in Mainframe technologies.
- Experience supporting large-scale enterprise applications and critical business systems.

Key Competencies
- Leadership & Mentoring
- Problem Solving & Analytical Thinking
- Mainframe Modernization
- Production Support Excellence
- Performance Optimization
- Release & Change Management
- Stakeholder Communication
- Documentation & Compliance Management

Preferred Industry Experience
- Banking & Financial Services
- Insurance
- Healthcare
- Large Enterprise IT Services
- Manufacturing or Global MNC Environments

📌 Mainframe Lead (Bengaluru)
🏢 Cognizant
📍 Bengaluru