Mainframe Systems Programmers

CISS System Administrator

What’s on Offer:

• Industry: Consulting

• Location: Hong Kong

• 12 months contract role (with the possibility of extension)

• Competitive Compensation

Job Summary: We are seeking an experienced CICS System Administrator/Programmer to manage and support IBM CICS Transaction Server environments on z/OS mainframes. This role is responsible for ensuring the stability, performance, and security of mission-critical online transaction processing systems, while supporting integrations with enterprise platforms. Job Description: CICS System Administration & Support

• Install, configure, upgrade, and maintain IBM CICS Transaction Server (CICS TS) environments

• Manage multiple CICS regions, including startup, shutdown, and parameter configuration • Configure and maintain CICS system definitions (SIT, PPT, FCT, PCT, DCT, TST, etc.) • Support high availability and disaster recovery configurations

CICSplex Management • Administer and manage CICSPlex SM components (CMAS, MAS, WUI) • Define and maintain CICSplex topology and routing • Monitor workload balancing and region health across the CICSplex

Performance Monitoring & Tuning • Monitor system performance using tools such as OMEGAMON, RMF, SYSVIEW • Analyze SMF, RMF, and CMF data to identify bottlenecks and optimize performance • Proactively tune CICS regions and transactions to ensure optimal throughput and response

times Incident Management & Troubleshooting

• Investigate and resolve CICS system abends, dumps, and performance issues • Perform root cause analysis for system outages and recurring incidents • Provide Level 2/Level 3 support for production issues

Security & Compliance • Configure and maintain security using RACF / ACF2 / Top Secret • Ensure compliance with enterprise security policies and audit requirements • Manage user access, transaction security, and dataset permissions

Integration & Middleware Support

• Support integration with MQ, DB2, IMS, and external systems • Assist in configuring CICS web services, APIs, and connectivity • Work closely with application and infrastructure teams for end-to-end system support

Change & Release Management • Participate in system upgrades, patching, and maintenance activities • Support deployment processes and ensure proper change management procedures • Maintain system documentation, runbooks, and operational procedures

Job Requirements:

• Strong hands-on experience with IBM CICS TS on z/OS • Solid knowledge of z/OS utilities and tools (JCL, TSO/ISPF, SDSF, SMP/E) • Experience with CICSPlex SM administration • Familiarity with mainframe subsystems: MQ, DB2, IMS • Experience with performance monitoring tools (OMEGAMON, RMF, SYSVIEW) • Strong troubleshooting skills in a production environment

Preferred / Good to Have

• Experience with CICS web services, APIs, or modernization initiatives • Knowledge of DevOps practices in mainframe environments • Exposure to automation and scripting (REXX, CLIST, etc.) • Experience in banking / financial services environments

Soft Skills

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills • Ability to work under pressure in a 24/7 production environment • Good communication skills and ability to work with cross-functional teams

Experience Level

• Typically 5–10+ years of relevant mainframe / CICS system programming experience