Mainframe Developer (COBOL/DB2/JCL/CICS) DCA2249

Work Arrangement: Onsite (no remote option)
Location: Buffalo, New York
Duration: ~6 months (1,040 total hours) Contract with potential conversion to full-time (FTE)
Work Authorization: U.S. Citizens or Green Card holders only
Engagement Type: W-2 only (no C2C/1099/sponsorship)

Overview

Client is seeking a hands-on Mainframe Developer to design, build, and support enterprise batch and online applications. This is an onsite role in Buffalo, NY with potential to convert to full-time. Youll analyze requirements, develop and unit test COBOL/DB2 programs, author JCL for batch workflows, develop/maintain CICS transactions, and perform debugging and integrated testing using enterprise toolsets. Youll partner closely with Technology and Business stakeholders to deliver high-quality, compliant solutions aligned to Client standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform end-to-end systems analysis, design, COBOL/DB2 development, and unit/integration testing for batch and CICS online applications.
• Author, schedule, and optimize JCL; coordinate job streams with CA7; manage datasets (VSAM, sequential, GDGs).
• Debug and trace using Xpediter; perform data analysis/editing with File-Aid; manage libraries with Panvalet.
• Prepare and execute detailed test plans; create/maintain test data; resolve defects and complete required debugging.
• Evaluate interdependencies among applications; ensure data integrity, performance, and reliability across interfaces.
• Produce clear technical/functional specs, flow diagrams, and documentation; review and improve artifacts from less-experienced staff.
• Provide day-to-day support (L3), triage incidents, drive root-cause analysis, and recommend preventive fixes/optimizations.
• Estimate effort and tasks; drive milestones and delivery dates; may lead activities of others on smallmedium scope efforts.
• Adhere to Client SDLC, coding, testing, and release standards; align with risk, regulatory, and internal control requirements.
• Complete other related duties as required (e.g., due diligence, vendor or cost/benefit analysis, business study activities).

Required Qualifications

• Education/Experience:
• Associates degree and 4+ years of systems analysis/application development; or
• 6+ years combined higher education/work experience including 4+ years of systems analysis/application development.
• Mainframe Core: Recent, hands-on COBOL, JCL, DB2, VSAM, CICS.
• Tooling: File-Aid, Panvalet, CA7, Xpediter.
• Proficiency with PCs and pertinent project/word processing/spreadsheet tools.
• Ability to handle multiple moderately complex to complex initiatives; strong problem-solving and lateral-thinking skills.
• Strong verbal/written communication skills with experience presenting to the target audience.
• Proven experience coordinating between Applications and business units; driving milestones and delivery dates; recommending and implementing system solutions.
• Detail-oriented, organized, and effective at time management.

Preferred Qualifications

• Understanding of Clients application framework and integrated/interfacing applications.
• Subject-matter expertise in relevant banking/business domains.
• Demonstrated ability to work both autonomously and in a team; action-oriented and proactive.
• Ability to multitask across components of moderately complex to complex projects.

Risk & Compliance

• Understand and adhere to Clients risk and regulatory standards, policies, and controls in accordance with Clients Risk Appetite.
• Maintain Client internal control standards, including timely implementation of internal/external audit points and regulator findings as applicable.
• Promote an environment that supports diversity and reflects the Client brand.