Mainframe Systems Administrator- z/OS

We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced z/OS System Administrator to join our infrastructure operations team. In this role, you will be responsible for maintaining and optimizing mainframe systems to ensure high availability, performance, and reliability. You will work closely with operations, engineering, and vendor teams to support incident resolution, system upgrades, and performance tuning across critical environments.

In this role, you will:

· Incident & Problem Management:

Perform root cause analysis and implement resolutions for system-related incidents and problems.

· System Maintenance & Upgrades:

Support maintenance releases and execute major OS upgrades across z/OS environments.

· Client Request Fulfillment:

Process and implement system software modifications based on client requests.

· Proactive System Monitoring:

Review system logs, dumps, and error indicators to identify and resolve potential issues before they impact operations.

· System IPL & Availability:

Collaborate with operations teams to monitor, maintain, and IPL systems to ensure consistent uptime and performance.

· Performance Tuning:

Work with performance engineering and capacity planning teams to monitor and optimize system performance.

· Automation & Tooling:

Implement tools and processes to automate repetitive tasks and improve operational efficiency.

· License Management:

Manage license codes for infrastructure software and ensure compliance with vendor agreements.

· Disaster Recovery Support:

Plan and participate in disaster recovery exercises and ensure readiness of systems.

· Operational Procedures:

Develop and maintain operational procedures and implement changes to support other infrastructure towers.

· Vendor Collaboration:

Engage with IBM and other Independent Software Vendors (ISVs) for support, updates, and issue resolution.

· Reporting & Analysis:

Provide regular reports and analysis to senior management on incidents, changes, and system health.

Required Skills: What you need to be considered

· Proven experience in z/OS system administration and mainframe operations.

· Strong understanding of IPL processes, system performance tuning, and error log analysis.

· Experience with incident and problem management frameworks.

· Familiarity with disaster recovery planning and execution.

· Ability to manage software licensing and vendor relationships.

· Excellent troubleshooting and analytical skills.

· Strong communication skills for reporting and stakeholder engagement.

· Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a hybrid work environment.

Certifications Required

Red Hat Certified Specialist in OpenShift Administration

Preferred skills: what will help you stand out

· Experience with automation tools and scripting for mainframe environments.

· Familiarity with ITIL processes and enterprise change management.

· Exposure to performance engineering and capacity planning methodologies.

Salary and Other Compensation:

The annual salary for this position is between $49,001 to $92,500 depending on experience and other qualifications of the successful candidate.

This position is also eligible for Cognizant’s discretionary annual incentive program, based on performance and subject to the terms of Cognizant’s applicable plans.

Benefits: Cognizant offers the following benefits for this position, subject to applicable eligibility requirements:

• Medical/Dental/Vision/Life Insurance

• Paid holidays plus Paid Time Off

• 401(k) plan and contributions

• Long-term/Short-term Disability

• Paid Parental Leave

• Employee Stock Purchase Plan

Work model:

At Cognizant, we strive to provide flexibility wherever possible, and we are here to support a healthy work-life balance though our various wellbeing programs. Based on this role’s business requirements, this is a hybrid position requiring 3-4 days a week in a client office at Hartford, Connecticut, USA.

The working arrangements for this role are accurate as of the date of posting. This may change based on the project you’re engaged in, as well as business and client requirements. Rest assured; we will always be clear about role expectations.

We're excited to meet people who share our mission and can make an impact in a variety of ways. Don't hesitate to apply, even if you only meet the minimum requirements listed. Think about your transferable experiences and unique skills that make you stand out as someone who can bring new and exciting things to this role.

Disclaimer: The salary, other compensation, and benefits information is accurate as of the date of this posting. Cognizant reserves the right to modify this information at any time, subject to applicable law.

“Cognizant is an equal opportunity employer. Your application and candidacy will not be considered based on race, color, sex, religion, creed, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, veteran status or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.”