Mainframe DBA Lead (DB2 for z/OS)
Location: Remote
About the Role
We are looking for an experienced Mainframe DBA Lead to provide technical leadership for enterprise DB2 for z/OS environments. You will own database availability, performance, recoverability, security, and scalability while leading upgrades, performance engineering, and modernization initiatives.
Key Responsibilities
Lead administration and support of DB2 for z/OS subsystems across Dev, Test, UAT, DR, and Production
Drive performance tuning (SQL, access paths, buffer pools, locking, concurrency) and capacity planning
Manage and optimize DB2 utilities (REORG, RUNSTATS, COPY, LOAD, UNLOAD, RECOVER, etc.)
Own backup, recovery, and Disaster Recovery strategies; ensure RTO/RPO targets are met
Lead DB2 version upgrades, migrations, and PTF implementation
Act as L3/L4 escalation point for complex production issues and root cause analysis
Define database standards, best practices, and provide technical guidance to the DBA team
Collaborate with z/OS, CICS, IMS, MQ, Storage, Security, and Application teams
Required Skills & Experience
12+ years Mainframe experience with 8+ years hands-on DB2 for z/OS DBA experience
Strong expertise in DB2 subsystems, Data Sharing/Parallel Sysplex, database design, indexing, and catalog
Proven experience in performance engineering, backup & recovery, and DB2 upgrades/migrations
Solid knowledge of z/OS, JCL, TSO/ISPF, SDSF, and JES2
Experience leading major incidents, technical projects, and mentoring junior DBAs
Preferred Qualifications
BMC DB2 tools, REXX scripting, database encryption & compliance
Experience in Banking, Insurance, or other highly regulated industries
IBM DB2 for z/OS certification
Exposure to CICS, IMS, or MQ integration