Astra North Infoteck Inc. - Mainframe Developer (PL/I, Cobol, JCL, VSAM, DB2)

Developer is needed in Vancouver, Canada.

Client: Astra North Infoteck Inc.

Location: Vancouver (Remote), BC, ca

Contract: Freelance

Job Description

We are looking for an experienced Mainframe Developer to support application enhancements, production support, and decommissioning initiatives within a complex enterprise environment. The role requires strong expertise in legacy systems, data management, and operational stability while contributing to modernization and retirement of applications. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience in PL/I, DB2, IMS, and JCL, along with strong analytical and troubleshooting skills.

Job Requirements

• Design, develop, and implement enhancements to existing mainframe applications based on business requirements.

• Write, maintain, and optimize PL/I programs and JCL for batch and online processing.

• Work with DB2 and IMS databases for data processing, querying, and performance tuning.

• Provide Level 2/3 production and application support, including batch job monitoring, incident resolution, and root cause analysis.

• Ensure smooth execution of batch processes using scheduling tools such as Control-M and support change, incident, and problem management activities using tools like HPSM and JIRA.

• Utilize mainframe development and deployment tools such as ISPW for code management and promotion.

• Analyze legacy applications to identify decommissioning opportunities, including dependency mapping and impact analysis.

• Support data archival, migration, and validation as part of application retirement initiatives.

• Execute decommissioning activities in compliance with regulatory and data retention requirements.

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams and document system changes, processes, and decommissioning activities.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field.

• 4–7 years of experience in mainframe development and support roles.

• Strong hands-on experience with PL/I, DB2, IMS, and JCL.

• Experience with tools such as Control-M, ISPW, HPSM, and JIRA.

• Experience in application enhancements and production support.

• Knowledge of batch processing and job scheduling tools.

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

Preferred Skills

• Experience with mainframe application decommissioning or modernization initiatives.

• Familiarity with Guidewire ClaimCenter (added advantage).

• Understanding of insurance.

• Exposure to Agile delivery models.

• Experience with data migration and archival strategies.

Key Competencies

• Strong attention to detail and quality focus.

• Excellent communication and collaboration skills.

• Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.

• Proactive problem-solving and critical thinking.

Additional Information

Location: Canada Remote

Duration: 6-12 months