Mainframe developer Jobs in Washington, DC

Job Summary:

The Mainframe Developer will support a 6-month modernization project replacing an aging eligibility platform with a new statewide system (EDEN). This role focuses on designing, developing, testing, and supporting mainframe applications and batch processes that enable seamless data exchange between the legacy Child Support Enforcement system (ICAR) and the new eligibility platform. The developer will collaborate with technical teams to ensure data integrity and smooth transition during the modernization effort.

Responsibilities:

• Develop, enhance, and maintain COBOL and JCL programs for interface file processing between ICAR and EDEN.
• Modify file layouts, data mappings, and validation routines based on requirements.
• Enhance batch workflows, GDG structures, and VSAM datasets to support integration needs.
• Support modernization by replacing legacy data sources with EDEN-derived data.
• Maintain and troubleshoot production processes and interfaces.
• Translate business requirements into technical designs and analyze system impacts.
• Support applications interacting with IDMS databases including schema and subschema navigation.
• Create and maintain technical documentation, process flows, and interface designs.
• Develop and execute unit tests; support system, integration, regression, and user acceptance testing.
• Investigate and resolve defects; validate end-to-end data processing and file exchanges.
• Create and maintain JCL, procedures, scheduling definitions, and operational documentation.
• Assist with deployment, cutover planning, and production support activities.
• Troubleshoot production incidents and develop operational runbooks and monitoring procedures.
• Collaborate with project managers, analysts, developers, and stakeholders; participate in design reviews and planning meetings.
• Communicate risks, issues, and recommendations proactively; support knowledge transfer and documentation efforts.

Required Skills & Certifications:

• Minimum 3 years of hands-on experience in mainframe development with COBOL and JCL.
• Experience with VSAM datasets, indexing, REPRO/DEFINE utilities.
• Proficiency in IDMS database development and support, including schema/subschema navigation.
• Strong batch processing development and support skills.
• Expertise in flat file design, parsing, data transformation, and interface mapping.
• Knowledge of GDG management and dataset lifecycle administration.
• Experience with FTP/SFTP processing, file transfer automation, and scheduling tools such as CA7 or Control-M.
• Legacy system modernization experience and multi-system data integration support.
• Strong analytical, root cause analysis, and troubleshooting skills.
• Ability to interpret technical specifications and work independently or collaboratively.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills.

Preferred Skills & Certifications:

• Experience supporting Child Support Enforcement or Human Services programs.
• Familiarity with eligibility systems, public assistance systems, or government modernization projects.
• Background in large-scale legacy modernization initiatives.
• Knowledge of production support, release management, and deployment practices.
• Experience working in Agile or hybrid project environments.

Special Considerations:

• Absences greater than two weeks require prior approval and contact information must be provided for availability during absence.
• Contractor must report any disciplinary actions or convictions to the State.
• Candidate must complete additional background checks including waiver forms and fingerprinting before start.
• Compliance with all client and State interview and reporting requirements is mandatory.

Scheduling:

• Project duration is from December 7, 2026, to June 30, 2027.
• Interviews will be conducted on November 16, 17, 18, and 19; candidates must be available on these dates.
• Work schedule and shift patterns will be defined as per project and operational needs.