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Mainframe systems administrator skills for your resume and career

Updated January 8, 2025

3 min read

Below we've compiled a list of the most critical mainframe systems administrator skills. We ranked the top skills for mainframe systems administrators based on the percentage of resumes they appeared on. For example, 8.3% of mainframe systems administrator resumes contained jcl as a skill. Continue reading to find out what skills a mainframe systems administrator needs to be successful in the workplace.

15 mainframe systems administrator skills for your resume and career

1. JCL

Here's how mainframe systems administrators use jcl:

Provide Mainframe Programming Support using COBOL and JCL on OS/MVS platform.
Work with vendors providing IDCAMS PRINTS and Tersed DUMPS via FTPBATCH JCL.

2. CICS

Here's how mainframe systems administrators use cics:

Created TSO and CICS accounts, and granted access to various internal systems and applications.
Have done JAVA service refresh and created environment for running Java programs through CICS.

3. FTP

Here's how mainframe systems administrators use ftp:

Designed and programmed software applications for the internal needs of the facility including FTP applications, accounting and statistical analysis packages.
FTP server administration which involved creating user accounts for corporate customers.

4. REXX

Here's how mainframe systems administrators use rexx:

Supply REXX coding to Security Services to update IBM Session Manager(ISM) with new hires.
Coded a full cloning system under REXX for new z/OS operating system installation.

5. DB2

The DB2, known as the Relational Database Management System, is a type of procedure developed by IBM to run and operate software applications such as Windows, Unix, and the Linux System. This type of system is designed mainly for IBM but was innovated to run in various operating systems. The main feature of the DB2 is to handle and manage a big chunk of data while allowing the users to enter the database engine without any problem.

Here's how mainframe systems administrators use db2:

Major responsibilities included analysis of user requirements, and the design and coding of several complex programs using CICS & DB2.
Begin the Planning, and initial installation preparation of the TEST system/LPAR for the installation of DB2 V11.

6. Z/OS

Here's how mainframe systems administrators use z/os:

Participate in the upgrade of z/OS 1.13.
Perform monthly IPL s of z/OS TEST, Production and z/VM Mainframe servers.

7. Tcp Ip

Here's how mainframe systems administrators use tcp ip:

Network administrator (installation and configuration of TCP IP LANs, switches, Cisco routers, internet servers.

8. Mainframe Systems

Here's how mainframe systems administrators use mainframe systems:

Applied maintenance to IBM mainframe systems every six months and upgraded operating system every year.
Worked at Ameritech Worked as an ENDEVOR Administrator building ENDEVOR environments on all of Ameritech mainframe systems.

9. SMP/E

Here's how mainframe systems administrators use smp/e:

Reviewed, recoded, and reinstalled usermods using SMP/E.

10. TSO

Here's how mainframe systems administrators use tso:

Utilized ISPF/PDF, TSO, IDCAMS, DF/DSS, ICKDSF and other utilities.

11. System Administration

System administration entails the overall management, organization, and operation of system software and hardware. It also extends to the management of servers, workstations, and working operations concerning them all. System administration aims to ensure all functions covering the systems run smoothly and hitch-free.

Here's how mainframe systems administrators use system administration:

Provided system administration for file, print and network servers.
Performed the daily system administration tasks like managing system resources and end users support operations and security.

12. Remedy

Here's how mainframe systems administrators use remedy:

Utilize BMC Remedy Change Management for all Software/Hardware related modifications.
Track and list all open remedy tickets.

13. RMF

RMF (the Risk Management Framework) refers to a set of criteria used by the federal government and its contractors to improve information security. To be proficient in RMF, in-depth technical experience with core technologies like Digital, Cloud, Data Protection, etc., along with knowledge of FISMA and FedRAMP regulatory compliance requirements.

Here's how mainframe systems administrators use rmf:

Installed AT-TLS and customized RMF and CMF Performance Tuned z/OS, JES2, and TSO.

14. Unix

UNIX is a computer operating system that was first created in the 1960s and has been constantly updated since then. The operating system refers to the set of programs that enable a machine to function. It is a multi-user, multi-tasking device that works on computers, laptops, and servers. UNIX systems also have a graphical user interface (GUI), similar to Microsoft Windows, that makes it simple to use.

Here's how mainframe systems administrators use unix:

Performed Unix systems administration operations on a daily basis, such as user account maintenance, performance monitoring and network troubleshooting.
Developed Unix based script to integrate with Java Based Utility to run Backup of deactivated documents continuously.

15. HCD

Here's how mainframe systems administrators use hcd:

Assisted in generating IODFs using HCM and HCD.

What skills help Mainframe Systems Administrators find jobs?

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List of mainframe systems administrator skills to add to your resume

The most important skills for a mainframe systems administrator resume and required skills for a mainframe systems administrator to have include:

JCL
CICS
FTP
REXX
DB2
Z/OS
Tcp Ip
Mainframe Systems
SMP/E
TSO
System Administration
Remedy
RMF

Unix
HCD
Debugging
CA-1
Dasd
IMS
VM
IBM Mainframe
Capacity Planning
User Support
Provisioning
Windows
IPL

SMF
Encryption
Problem Determination
VSAM
Ca-Datacom
Backup Recovery
ISV
Ca-Acf2
Technical Support
Batch Processing
Disaster Recovery Drill

Updated January 8, 2025

Zippia Team

Editorial Staff

The Zippia Research Team has spent countless hours reviewing resumes, job postings, and government data to determine what goes into getting a job in each phase of life. Professional writers and data scientists comprise the Zippia Research Team.

Updated January 8, 2025

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