Job Role: COBOL IBM Mainframe Developer Location: Riyadh, Saudi Arabia Experience Required: 10-12 years Domain: Banking, Financial Services, and Insurance
Role Overview We are looking for an experienced COBOL IBM Mainframe Developer to design, develop, enhance, maintain, and support batch and online applications running on IBM Mainframe environments. The role involves working with business analysts, architects, and cross-functional teams to deliver high-quality, resilient, and scalable enterprise systems.
Key Responsibilities Application Development & Maintenance• Design, develop, code, test, and debug applications using COBOL, JCL, DB2, VSAM, and IBM Mainframe utilities. • Enhance existing mainframe applications and perform impact analysis for change requests. • Develop and optimize batch and online programs ensuring performance, reliability, and scalability. • Write and modify JCL scripts for job scheduling, execution, and monitoring. Analysis & Design• Collaborate with business stakeholders to understand requirements and convert them into technical specifications. • Perform root-cause analysis for production issues and provide permanent fixes. • Create and maintain technical documentation, program specifications, and data flow diagrams.
Database & Data Management• Work with DB2 / SQL for data access, query optimization, and schema understanding. • Manage VSAM file structures, sequential datasets, and data migration tasks.
Testing & Quality Assurance• Conduct unit testing, regression testing, and performance validation. • Work closely with QA teams to ensure defect-free delivery. • Support User Acceptance Testing (UAT) and production releases.
Production Support• Provide L2/L3 support for mainframe applications. • Monitor batch cycles, debug abends (ABEND-S0C7, S0C4, SB37, etc.), and ensure SLA compliance. • Provide on-call support for critical systems, if required.
Collaboration & Process• Work within SDLC/Agile delivery methodologies. • Participate in code reviews and adhere to coding standards. • Ensure compliance with banking/financial domain standards if applicable.
Must-Have Experience & Skills • 10+ years of hands-on experience in IBM Mainframe development and support. • Strong hands-on experience with: o COBOL (COBOL85 / Enterprise COBOL) o JCL (Job Control Language) o DB2 / SQL o VSAM (KSDS, ESDS, RRDS) o CICS (for online transaction processing) o Endevor / Changeman or other version control tools o IBM utilities: SORT, IDCAMS, IEBGENER, File Aid, SMP/E o Job schedulers such as Control-M, CA-7, or equivalent
Nice-to-Have Skills • Knowledge of IMS DB/DC • Exposure to MQ, SOAP services, APIs integration with mainframe • Experience in banking, insurance, BFSI domain • Understanding of cloud modernization initiatives (optional)
Soft Skills • Strong analytical and debugging skills. • Ability to work independently and in cross-functional teams. • Good communication and documentation skills. • Ability to handle pressure and meet tight deadlines.
Education Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or equivalent.