Application Mgmt. Specialist Advisor

Comprehensive responsibility breakdown, skills matrix and soft skills for Mainframe IMS Engineer.

Years of experience required: +15 yrs

Responsibilities:

Product Install\Upgrade

Product install\upgrades\maintenance and customization with usermods.

Supporting Product Support

Managing supporting software products.

CICS Configuration

Configuration of CICS and setting up subsystem connectivity

System Installation\Upgrades & Configuration

Plan, test, and implement IMS software upgrades, RSU, and feature enhancements

IMS Architecture Knowledge

Deep understanding of IMS/TM and IMS/DB subsystems, message processing regions, and how IMS fits within a z/OS Sysplex.

Database Management

Proficient in defining and maintaining IMS databases using DBDs and PSBs, controls for segmentation, and executing DL/I utilities.

Programming Skills

Hands-on experience developing and maintaining IMS applications in COBOL, writing exits in Assembler, and automating tasks with REXX.

System Administration

Skills in installing, configuring, and patching IMS regions; managing control blocks; and orchestrating deployments via SMP/E or z/OSMF. SYSGEN and subsystem connectivity management for MQ, CICS and DB2. Also LU6.2 and NJE connectivity

Performance Tuning

Ability to monitor IMS transaction and database performance, adjust IMS buffer pools, and optimize logging and threading for SLAs.

Troubleshooting

Strong analytical skills for diagnosing transaction failures, database lock contention, and communication errors using trace tools and dumps.

Backup and Recovery

Knowledge of IMS restart strategies (cold, warm, and concurrent restarts) and integration with DFSMShsm for log retention and recovery.

Integration Skills

Familiarity with linking IMS to CICS, DB2, MQ, web services, and leveraging IMS Connect or GATEWAY for cross-platform transactions.

Documentation and Communication

Ability to produce clear runbooks, architecture diagrams, change-control records, and to coordinate with developers, DBAs, and operations teams.

Continuous Learning

Commitment to staying current with IBM Redbooks, IMS enhancements, vendor training, and industry best practices.

Skills Matrix:

Soft Skills:

Communication

Clearly conveys technical concepts and status updates to both technical and non-technical stakeholders, ensuring alignment and shared understanding.

 Collaboration

Works effectively with application developers, DBAs, operations teams, and vendors, fostering a team mindset and driving joint problem resolution.

 Analytical

Thinking Breaks down complex system behaviors into root causes, leveraging structured reasoning to guide troubleshooting and design decisions.

 Adaptability

Quickly adjusts to new IMS releases, changing project priorities, and evolving operational challenges without disruption to service delivery.

Attention to Detail

Meticulously reviews configuration parameters, job streams, and change-control documentation to prevent errors in highly sensitive production environments.

Time Management

Prioritizes tasks—such as system maintenance, incident response, and project work—to meet tight SLAs and minimize business impact.

 Customer Focus

Anticipates and responds to the needs of internal customers by delivering reliable IMS services and clear guidance on usage or recovery procedures.

Resilience

Maintains composure under pressure—during outage scenarios or high-volume support windows—and works methodically toward resolution.

Mentoring & Coaching

Shares expertise with junior engineers through peer reviews, knowledge-transfer sessions, and documentation, strengthening overall team capability.

Continuous Learning Mindset

Seeks out training, IBM Redbooks, vendor webinars, and community forums to stay ahead of IMS innovations and best practices.

About NTT DATA

NTT DATA is a $30 billion trusted global innovator of business and technology services. We serve 75% of the Fortune Global 100 and are committed to helping clients innovate, optimize and transform for long term success. As a Global Top Employer, we have diverse experts in more than 50 countries and a robust partner ecosystem of established and start-up companies. Our services include business and technology consulting, data and artificial intelligence, industry solutions, as well as the development, implementation and management of applications, infrastructure and connectivity. We are one of the leading providers of digital and AI infrastructure in the world. NTT DATA is a part of NTT Group, which invests over $3.6 billion each year in R&D to help organizations and society move confidently and sustainably into the digital future. Visit us at us.nttdata.com

Whenever possible, we hire locally to NTT DATA offices or client sites. This ensures we can provide timely and effective support tailored to each client’s needs. While many positions offer remote or hybrid work options, these arrangements are subject to change based on client requirements. For employees near an NTT DATA office or client site, in-office attendance may be required for meetings or events, depending on business needs. At NTT DATA, we are committed to staying flexible and meeting the evolving needs of both our clients and employees. NTT DATA recruiters will never ask for payment or banking information and will only use @nttdata.com and @talent.nttdataservices.com email addresses. If you are requested to provide payment or disclose banking information, please submit a contact us form, https://us.nttdata.com/en/contact-us.

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