Mainframe Architect

We are launching a comprehensive mainframe modernization program and are seeking a Mainframe Modernization Lead to drive this transformation end-to-end. This role will be instrumental in defining and executing a modern development ecosystem for mainframe applications, improving developer experience, and integrating mainframe platforms into enterprise DevOps practices.

About the Role

This role will be instrumental in defining and executing a modern development ecosystem for mainframe applications, improving developer experience, and integrating mainframe platforms into enterprise DevOps practices.

Responsibilities

• Modernization Initiatives Lead and deliver key transformation initiatives, including:
• Adoption of modern IDEs for mainframe development (e.g., IBM Developer for z/OS, Visual Studio Code)
• Implementation of CI/CD practices covering source code management, build, and deployment (e.g., Git, Jenkins, IBM UrbanCode Deploy)
• Introduction of unit testing practices for mainframe applications (e.g., IBM zUnit)
• Leveraging AI to accelerate modernization:
• Code assistants (e.g., IBM watsonx Code Assistant)
• Legacy application understanding and documentation
• Automated unit test generation

• End-to-End Delivery Ownership Own the full lifecycle of modernization initiatives:
• Identify user needs, pain points, and improvement opportunities
• Define scope, target architecture, and solutions
• Design and develop prototypes (proofs of concept)
• Engage stakeholders and users to gather feedback and validate value
• Industrialize solutions for production use
• Lead pilot phases to validate technical and business outcomes
• Define and execute change management and adoption strategies
• Drive adoption across teams and measure success (e.g., productivity gains, reduced pain points)

Qualifications

• Strong experience in mainframe environments (COBOL, DB2, JCL, CICS)
• Proven experience in DevOps transformation (CI/CD, automation)
• Familiarity with modern development tools and ecosystems
• Experience with modernization initiatives (replatforming, refactoring, or tooling transformation)
• Strong stakeholder management and communication skills
• Ability to lead cross-functional teams and drive change

Required Skills

• Strong experience in mainframe environments (COBOL, DB2, JCL, CICS)
• Proven experience in DevOps transformation (CI/CD, automation)
• Familiarity with modern development tools and ecosystems
• Experience with modernization initiatives (replatforming, refactoring, or tooling transformation)
• Strong stakeholder management and communication skills
• Ability to lead cross-functional teams and drive change
• Fluent in Dutch or French

Preferred Skills

• Strong stakeholder management and communication skills
• Ability to lead cross-functional teams and drive change