Database Administrator DB2/IDMS (Contract)

Location: Sandton Banking & Financial Services

A leading bank in Sandton is seeking an experienced Database Administrator (DB2/IDMS) to join their high-performance mainframe team on a contract basis. This role is critical in ensuring the availability, performance, security, and integrity of core database systems that power mission-critical business applications.

You'll work with cutting-edge banking technology, manage complex enterprise-scale database environments, and play a key role in strategic initiatives including disaster recovery and system optimisation.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage, monitor, and maintain IDMS and DB2 database objects for maximum performance and uptime.
• Perform database tuning and optimisation to ensure the DBMS operates at peak efficiency.
• Schedule and execute database maintenance and health checks.
• Troubleshoot and resolve database-related issues promptly, ensuring minimal business impact.
• Enforce database security standards to protect sensitive financial data.
• Provide database design, consultation, and solutions to support new business projects.
• Participate in disaster recovery (DR) planning, testing, and execution.
• Deliver detailed reports on database usage, capacity, and performance for senior management decision-making.
• Manage supplier relationships for incident handling and resolution.
• Support business requirements through incident management, change requests, and SLA adherence.

Qualifications & Experience

• IT degree or relevant industry certification preferred.
• 8+ years in IT, with at least 5 years as an operational DBA in a large, complex corporate environment.
• Minimum 4 years hands-on experience with IDMS and DB2 in a mainframe environment.
• Solid understanding of mainframe OS concepts and experience in another mainframe discipline.
• Proven track record in database analysis, design, performance tuning, and security.
• Experience in disaster recovery exercises and backup/recovery strategy implementation.

Technical Skills

• DB2 SQL scripting and optimisation.
• Mainframe operating systems, JCL, and scheduling tools.
• IBM utilities and editors, DB2 Tools (Db2 Admin, Spufi) and IDMS tools (DMLO navigation).
• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving capabilities.
• Proficiency in database utilities and performance monitoring.
• Knowledge of database internals and security best practices.

Culture & Attributes

• Strong ownership and accountability mindset.
• Results-driven with a commitment to meeting deadlines and SLAs.
• Adaptable to changing priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Methodical, organised, and able to work both independently and collaboratively.
• Upholds principles, values, and best practices in every task.

Additional Information

• Standby and after-hours support is required.
• Weekend support and occasional travel may be necessary.

Why Join?

This is your opportunity to work in one of South Africa's most respected banking