Mainframe Developer Contractor

Job Title: Mainframe Developer Location : Remote Only in W2 No C2C USC only We are seeking a Mainframe Developer to develop, enhance, and support mission-critical applications on IBM z/OS. This role includes batch and/or online transaction processing, database work (DB2/IMS), testing, and production support. Roles & Responsibilites • Design, develop, and maintain mainframe applications using COBOL (and/or PL/I), JCL, and related technologies. • Develop and support batch processing jobs (job streams, scheduling coordination, restarts, abend handling). • Build and maintain online applications using CICS and/or IMS TM, including transaction and screen/program changes. • Develop and optimize data access using DB2 (SQL) and/or IMS DB; perform basic performance tuning as needed. • Conduct impact analysis, estimate effort, and deliver enhancements/defect fixes through the SDLC (Software Development Life Cycle). • Perform debugging, root-cause analysis, and resolution of production issues; participate in on-call/support rotations as required. • Create and maintain technical documentation (program specs, job flows, runbooks, release notes). • Collaborate with cross-functional teams (business, QA, operations, infrastructure) to ensure stable releases and successful deployments. • Follow secure coding practices and comply with audit, access control, and data handling requirements. Skills: • Hands-on experience with IBM z/OS mainframe development. • Strong proficiency in COBOL (or PL/I) • Strong proficiency in JCL and batch job processing concepts • Working experience with DB2 (SQL development and data handling) and/or IMS • Experience with ISPF/TSO and ability to navigate datasets, job logs, and execution outputs • Debugging and troubleshooting skills (including abend analysis) • Understanding of SDLC practices, testing, and release/change processes • Strong communication and documentation skills