Job Description: Mainframe System Programming Manager
About Us.
Ensono is a hybrid IT services provider that sees a world in transformation. We understand the world of business has become more complex, layered, and interdependent because we’re enabling the IT infrastructure for that transformation. Our clients are some of the most innovative and forward-thinking companies in the world and we help keep their businesses thriving. With nearly 50 years of experience, we optimize and modernize IT infrastructure by amplifying the power of mainframes and mid-range servers with the agility of cloud. Check us out at www.ensono.com
Position Overview
We are seeking an experienced
Mainframe System Programming Manager
to lead and manage our mainframe infrastructure operations team. This is a strategic leadership role requiring deep technical expertise combined with proven people management and service delivery capabilities. The ideal candidate will drive operational excellence, modernization initiatives, and team performance across a complex, mission-critical mainframe environment.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership & Management
- Lead, mentor, and develop a team of 25+ mainframe system programmers and technical staff
- Establish and enforce operational standards, best practices, and SLAs across mainframe infrastructure
- Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance system reliability, performance, and availability
- Develop and execute roadmaps for mainframe modernization and infrastructure advancement
Technical Infrastructure Management
- Manage large, complex mainframe environments including z/OS Parallel Sysplex, Coupling Facility, and Disaster Recovery (DR) configurations
- Design, implement, and maintain enterprise-grade automation solutions using REXX, CLIST, and other scripting tools
- Ensure system performance optimization, capacity planning, and resource utilization across multi-CEC environments
- Oversee system reliability engineering, high availability strategies, and DR/business continuity protocols
- Drive automation-first culture to reduce manual operations and improve efficiency
Project & Change Management
- Manage complex mainframe projects using Microsoft Project and Agile/Scrum methodologies
- Coordinate release management, change control, and deployment processes
- Lead infrastructure modernization initiatives (z/OS enhancements, cloud integration, DevOps adoption)
- Ensure compliance with SDLC best practices and regulatory requirements
- Balance innovation with stability in mission-critical environments
Client & Stakeholder Management
- Serve as primary technical and operational contact for internal and external clients
- Deliver service delivery presentations, operational reviews, and performance metrics
- Manage client expectations and communicate infrastructure status, incidents, and improvements
- Build and maintain strong relationships with business stakeholders and C-suite executives
- Develop and present SLA reports, capacity planning recommendations, and infrastructure roadmaps
Team Development & Performance Management
- Conduct goal setting, performance evaluations, and career development planning for team members
- Recruit,, and retain top mainframe talent in a competitive market
- Foster a collaborative, high-performance culture with emphasis on technical excellence
- Provide technical mentoring and knowledge transfer to junior engineers
- Drive team training and certification programs to maintain skill currency
Required Qualifications
Experience
15+ years
in mainframe system programming and infrastructure management
10+ years
leading and managing technical teams of 20+ resources
Extensive hands-on experience
with large, complex mainframe environments including:
- z/OS system administration and internals
- Parallel Sysplex and Coupling Facility management
- Disaster Recovery (DR) strategies and implementation
- Multi-CEC environments and high availability architectures
Excellent verbal and written communication skills; ability to explain technical concepts to diverse audiences
Proven ability to lead, influence, and coordinate across geographically distributed and culturally diverse teams
Strong interpersonal skills and demonstrated ability to build trust with peers, clients, and leadership
Experience in client-facing roles and providing executive-level reporting
Technical Skills
Advanced proficiency
in REXX, CLIST, and other mainframe scripting/automation tools
- Demonstrated expertise in
Project & Process Management
Project Management
using Microsoft Project or equivalent tools
SDLC, Agile, and Scrum
methodologies
- Experience managing complex enterprise projects in regulated environments
- Knowledge of change management, release management, and operational governance
Soft Skills & Client Engagement
Excellent communication skills
– both technical and executive-level presentations
Client-facing experience
with demonstrated success in service delivery roles
people management
capabilities – leadership, coaching, conflict resolution
Strategic thinking
– ability to align technical solutions with business objectives
Problem-solving mindset
– proven ability to resolve complex technical and operational challenges
Educational Requirements
- Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or related field (or equivalent professional experience)
- Relevant certifications a plus (e.g., IBM mainframe certifications, ITIL, PMP, Agile/Scrum)
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with mainframe modernization initiatives (Zowe, z/OSMF, API-driven architecture)
- Knowledge of DevOps practices and infrastructure-as-code in mainframe contexts
- Exposure to hybrid cloud environments and mainframe integration with x86/Linux
- Multi-site or globally distributed team management experience
- Experience with vendor management and third-party mainframe tools
- Background in financial services, insurance, government, or other mission-critical industries
Shift Timing- 1:30 PM to 10:30 PM
We are an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to caste, colour, creed, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, disability, HIV status, or any other status protected by law. Candidates with disabilities who require accommodations during the recruitment process are encouraged to contact our Talent Acquisition team to place a request.
