Senior Lead -Mainframe IMS System Programmer

Who We Are

At Kyndryl, we run and reimagine the mission-critical technology systems that drive advantage for the world’s leading businesses.  We are at the heart of progress; with proven expertise and a continuous flow of AI-powered insight, enabling smarter decisions, faster innovation, and a lasting competitive edge. For our people—Kyndryls—that means doing purposeful work that powers human progress. Join us and experience a flexible, supportive environment where your well-being is prioritized and your potential can thrive.

The Role

As a Senior Mainframe IMS System Programmer   at Kyndryl, you’ll solve complex problems and identify potential future issues across the spectrum of platforms and services. You’ll be at the forefront of new technology and modernization, working with some of our biggest clients – which means some of the biggest in the world.
There’s never a typical day as a System Administrator at Kyndryl, because no two projects are alike. You’ll be managing systems data for clients and providing day-to-day solutions and security compliance. You’ll oversee a queue of assignments and work directly with technicians, prioritizing tickets to deliver the best solutions to our clients.
One of the benefits of Kyndryl is that we work with clients in a variety of industries, from banking to retail. Whether you want to broaden your knowledge base or narrow your scope and specialize in a specific sector, you can find your opportunity here. You’ll also get the chance to share your expertise by recommending modernization options, identifying new business opportunities, and cultivating relationships with other teams and stakeholders. Does the work get challenging at times? Yes! But you’ll collaborate with a diverse group of talented people and gain invaluable management and organizational skills, which will come in handy as you move forward in your career.

Responsibilities

• Experience with IMS system software and related program products software. installation, migrations, customization and maintenance.

• Install, configure, and maintain IMS DB, DB/DC, DBCTL, and DCCTL

• Perform upgrades, maintenance, and migrations (PTFs, RSUs, new releases) 

• Administer IMS components: IMS Connect, ODBM, CSL, Shared Queues, HALDB, Fast Path (DEDB)

• Manage IMS Catalog, Managed ACBs, and DBRC

• Monitor and tune system performance (buffer pools, regions, throughput) 

• Diagnose and resolve production issues using logs, traces, and dumps 

• Implement security and access controls

• Collaborate with DBAs, developers, and infrastructure teams

• Maintain documentation, procedures, and automation (JCL, REXX)

• Support modernization efforts (z/OS Connect, APIs, TCP/IP integration)

• Plan and perform Health Checks and Analysis

• Very good knowledge of IMS database organization

• Performance analysis & tuning for DBMS subsystems

• IMS Monitoring Tool- Proficient- Required Monitoring tool

• Proficient in JCL, TSO/SDSF/JES2/SYSVIEW/SMP/E

• Ability to debug & diagnose DBMS system and utility software

• Requires IMS Sysplex experience & data sharing expertise

• Various types of IMS restarts (COLD/WARM/ERE).

• Plan and perform DR (Disaster Recovery)

• Knowledge about IMS SYSGEN process - Defining/Adding Transactions and Programs to the IMS system.

• Knowledge of IMS Controls Blocks (DBDs, PSBs, ACBs).

• Knowledge of IMS Database Recovery Control (DBRC) concepts and RECON datasets

• Sound knowledge about IMS Logging - OLDS; SLDS; WADS;RLDS

Your future at Kyndryl
Every position at Kyndryl offers a way forward to grow your career, from Junior System Administrator to Architect. We have opportunities for Cloud Hyperscalers that you won’t find anywhere else, including hands-on experience, learning opportunities, and the chance to certify in all four major platforms. One of the benefits of Kyndryl is that we work with clients in a variety of industries, from banking to retail. Whether you want to broaden your knowledge base or narrow your scope and specialize in a specific sector, you can find your opportunity here.

Who You Are

You’re good at what you do and possess the required experience to prove it. However, equally as important – you have a growth mindset; keen to drive your own personal and professional development. You are customer-focused – someone who prioritizes customer success in their work. And finally, you’re open and borderless – naturally inclusive in how you work with others.

Required Technical and Professional Expertise

• 9+ Years of experience in Mainframe IMS System Programming

• Hands-on IMS administration and support

• Proficiency in JCL, TSO/ISPF, SMP/E if they know GSD even better

• Knowledge of IMS architecture and performance tuning

• Experience in problem determination and production support

Preferred Technical and Professional Experience

• Exposure to API enablement / z/OS Connect

• IMS data sharing / Parallel Sysplex

• Zowe or web-based interfaces

• Automation tools (REXX, System Automation)

Being You

The “Kyn” in Kyndryl means kinship, which represents the strong bonds we have with each other, our customers and our communities. We focus on ensuring all Kyndryls feel included and we welcome people of all cultures, backgrounds, and experiences. Even if you don’t meet every requirement, we encourage you to apply. We believe in growth, and we’re excited to see what you can bring. At Kyndryl, employee feedback has told us that our number one driver of employee engagement is belonging. That sense of belonging — being a valued, respected, trusted member of the team — is fundamental to our culture and fueling great experiences for our customers. This dedication to welcoming everyone into our company means that Kyndryl gives you the ability to thrive and contribute to our culture of empathy and shared success. That’s The Kyndryl Way.

What You Can Expect

Your career with us isn’t just a job—it’s an adventure with purpose.  We offer a dynamic, hybrid-friendly culture that supports your well-being and empowers you to grow. Our Be Well programs are thoughtfully designed to support your financial, mental, physical, and social health—because we know that when you feel your best, you do your best.
From your very first day, you’ll dive into impactful work that powers the systems our customers rely on every day. You won’t just contribute—you’ll make a difference, tackling meaningful projects that sharpen your skills and fuel your growth.
We’re here to champion your journey. With powerful tools to chart your career path, personalized development goals aligned with your ambitions, and continuous feedback to keep you inspired and on track, you’ll have everything you need to thrive and evolve. You’ll develop in-demand skills to grow your career and achieve your ambitions with access to cutting-edge learning opportunities—from certifications with Microsoft, Google, and Amazon to coaching and hands-on experiences. And through it all, you’ll be part of a culture that values empathy, restless learning, and a devotion to shared success.
We want you to thrive here—and we’re committed to helping you do just that. Ready to make an impact? Join us and help shape what’s next.

Get Referred!

If you know someone that works at Kyndryl, when asked ‘How Did You Hear About Us’ during the application process, select ‘Employee Referral’ and enter your contact's Kyndryl email address.