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- Tasks: Support and engineer IBM z/OS platforms in a dynamic banking environment.
- Company: Join a major global banking client with a focus on Mainframe infrastructure.
- Benefits: Competitive daily rate, hybrid working model, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Be part of a critical team supporting high-volume systems and make a real impact.
- Qualifications: Strong experience in IBM Mainframe (z/OS) and systems programming is essential.
- Other info: Flexible location within the UK and occasional onsite presence in Sheffield.
We are currently supporting a major global banking client in the build-out of their core Mainframe infrastructure team and are looking to engage experienced IBM Mainframe professionals across a number of specialist areas. This is an opportunity to join a large-scale enterprise environment, working on a complex and business-critical IBM z/OS estate supporting high-volume, mission-critical systems.
We are interested in speaking with contractors with strong Mainframe infrastructure experience, particularly within z/OS environments, across areas such as Systems Programming, Automation, CICS, DB2 and Storage.
Key Responsibilities:- Provide hands-on support and engineering across IBM z/OS platforms
- Perform system upgrades, maintenance and ongoing platform support
- Troubleshoot and resolve complex production issues
- Work across core mainframe tooling including JCL, TSO/ISPF and SMP/E
- Support critical banking systems in a high-availability environment
- Contribute to both BAU support and project-based initiatives
- Strong experience within IBM Mainframe (z/OS) environments (essential)
- Background in infrastructure / systems programming (not development-focused)
- Experience in one or more of the following areas:
- z/OS Systems Programming
- System Automation (OPS/MVS, IBM SA)
- CICS Transaction Server
- DB2 for z/OS
- IBM Z Storage (DFSMS, DASD)
Location: UK-based, hybrid working model. While there is a preference for occasional onsite presence in Sheffield, there is flexibility on location within the UK for the right candidate.
Rate: £500 - £575 per day (umbrella - inside IR35) dependent on experience.
IBM Mainframe Engineers / z/OS Systems Programmers Contract in City of London employer: Essential Consulting
Contact Detail:
Essential Consulting Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land IBM Mainframe Engineers / z/OS Systems Programmers Contract in City of London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the IBM Mainframe community. Attend meetups or webinars, and don’t be shy about asking for introductions. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Create a portfolio or a personal website showcasing your experience with z/OS systems programming and any projects you've worked on. This gives potential employers a tangible look at what you can bring to the table.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on common z/OS scenarios and troubleshooting techniques. Practice explaining your thought process clearly, as this will help you stand out when discussing complex production issues.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’ve got loads of opportunities that match your skills. Plus, applying directly shows your enthusiasm and commitment to joining our team.
We think you need these skills to ace IBM Mainframe Engineers / z/OS Systems Programmers Contract in City of London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience with IBM Mainframe and z/OS environments. We want to see how your skills in Systems Programming, Automation, and other key areas match what we're looking for.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this role. Mention specific projects or experiences that relate to the responsibilities listed in the job description.
Showcase Relevant Skills: When filling out your application, emphasise your hands-on experience with core mainframe tooling like JCL, TSO/ISPF, and SMP/E. We’re keen on seeing how you’ve tackled complex production issues in high-availability environments.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and get the ball rolling on your application process.
How to prepare for a job interview at Essential Consulting
✨Know Your z/OS Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of IBM z/OS environments. Be prepared to discuss your hands-on experience with systems programming, automation, and any specific tools like JCL or TSO/ISPF. The more you can demonstrate your expertise, the better!
✨Showcase Problem-Solving Skills
Since troubleshooting is a key part of the role, think of specific examples where you've resolved complex production issues. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers and highlight your critical thinking skills.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Banking Systems
Given that this role supports critical banking systems, it’s beneficial to understand the unique challenges and requirements of high-availability environments. Research common issues faced in banking IT and be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with these.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare some thoughtful questions about the team, projects, and the company’s approach to mainframe infrastructure. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you. Plus, it gives you a chance to engage with the interviewers!