DB2 Systems programmer

Key Responsibilities:

• DB2 Subsystem Management:

• Plan, prepare, and execute DB2 for z/OS subsystem installations, upgrades, and migrations (e.g., from DB2 12 to DB2 13, or between Function Levels).

• Apply IBM DB2 maintenance (PTFs, APARs, SPEs) regularly using SMP/E to ensure system integrity, resolve issues, and enhance functionality.

• Configure and maintain DB2 PARMLIB, DSNZPARM, and other critical DB2 initialization parameters.

• Perform DB2 subsystem restarts (IPLs, Quiesce/Start) as required for maintenance and configuration changes.

• DB2 Tool and Utility Support:

• Install, configure, upgrade, and maintain IBM DB2 utilities (e.g., REORG, RUNSTATS, COPY, LOAD, UNLOAD).

• Install and support various Independent Software Vendor (ISV) tools for DB2 (e.g., BMC DB2 tools, Broadcom/CA DB2 tools, IBM DB2 Admin Tool, IBM Data Studio, etc.) used for performance monitoring, backup/recovery, administration, and development.

• Troubleshoot issues related to DB2 utilities and ISV tools.

• Performance Monitoring and Tuning:

• Monitor DB2 subsystem health, performance, and resource utilization using tools like Omegamon for DB2, DB2 PM, SMF, RMF, and other performance monitors.

• Analyze performance data to identify bottlenecks within DB2 and recommend tuning improvements at the subsystem, buffer pool, and thread level.

• Assist DBAs and application teams in optimizing SQL queries and application performance.

• Problem Diagnosis and Resolution:

• Provide expert-level support for DB2 incidents, including problem determination, diagnosis (e.g., analyzing dumps, logs, traces), and resolution in a timely manner.

• Collaborate with IBM support and ISV vendors to resolve complex issues.

• Participate in on-call rotation for 24/7 support of critical DB2 environments.

• Collaboration and Coordination:

• Work closely with DB2 DBAs to understand their requirements, provide technical guidance, and ensure the smooth operation of database environments.

• Collaborate with z/OS Systems Programmers on shared resources, system-level issues, and overall mainframe health.

• Liaise with application development teams for DB2-related changes, new application deployments, and problem resolution.

• Coordinate with mainframe operations for scheduled maintenance and incident response.

• Automation and Scripting:

• Develop and maintain JCL, REXX, CLISTs, and other scripts for DB2 administration, monitoring, and automation tasks.

• Disaster Recovery and Business Continuity:

• Assist in the planning, testing, and execution of disaster recovery procedures for DB2 subsystems.

• Ensure the high availability and recoverability of critical DB2 environments.

• Documentation and Best Practices:

• Create and maintain comprehensive documentation for DB2 installations, configurations, operational procedures, and troubleshooting guides.

• Adhere to ITIL best practices for change management, incident management, and problem management within the DB2 domain.

• Security and Compliance:

• Implement and enforce security best practices within DB2, working with security administrators (RACF/ACF2/Top Secret) to define and manage DB2 security profiles.

• Ensure compliance with internal security policies and external regulatory requirements for DB2 data.

Required Skills and Experience:

• 5-8 years of hands-on experience as a Mainframe DB2 Systems Programmer.

• In-depth knowledge and hands-on experience with IBM DB2 for z/OS installation, configuration, maintenance, and migration (preferably including recent versions like DB2 12 or 13).

• Strong proficiency in JCL, TSO/ISPF, and SMP/E.

• Extensive experience with IBM DB2 utilities (COPY, RECOVER, REORG, RUNSTATS, LOAD, UNLOAD).

• Proven experience with installation and support of leading DB2 ISV tools (e.g., BMC DB2 tools, Broadcom/CA DB2 tools, IBM DB2 Admin Tool, Omegamon for DB2).

• Solid understanding of DB2 architecture, data sharing, buffer pool management, and logging.

• Experience with DB2 performance monitoring, tuning, and problem diagnosis (e.g., reading traces, interpreting DSNZPARM settings).

• Ability to read and interpret DB2 dumps for problem determination.

• Proficiency in REXX, CLISTs, or other scripting languages for automation.

• Familiarity with z/OS operating system fundamentals, including JES2/JES3, SMS, VSAM.

• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and troubleshooting skills.

• Strong communication (written and verbal) and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with various teams.

• Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities in a dynamic environment.

Desired Skills and Experience (Plus Points):

• Experience with Parallel Sysplex and DB2 Data Sharing environments.

• Knowledge of IBM MQ for z/OS, IMS, or CICS connectivity with DB2.

• Experience with DB2 DDF (Distributed Data Facility) and remote connectivity.

Certifications related to DB2 for z/OS

Remote