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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 with 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 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
✨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. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Create a portfolio or a personal project that highlights your experience with z/OS systems programming or automation. This can really set you apart from the crowd and give potential employers a taste of what you can do.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for those interviews! Brush up on your knowledge of JCL, TSO/ISPF, and SMP/E. We recommend practising common interview questions related to IBM Mainframe environments so you can confidently showcase your expertise when it counts.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We make it super easy for you to find roles that match your skills. Plus, applying directly means you’ll be in the loop for any updates and can get ahead of the competition. Don’t miss out!
We think you need these skills to ace IBM Mainframe Engineers / z/OS Systems Programmers Contract
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 and how your background aligns with our client's needs. Keep it concise but impactful!
Showcase Relevant Projects: If you've worked on any projects involving CICS, DB2, or IBM Z Storage, make sure to mention them. We love seeing real-world examples of your expertise in action!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity!
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.
✨Prepare Questions for Them
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare insightful questions about their mainframe infrastructure, team dynamics, and upcoming projects. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.