Okay, I've searched for Mainframe IMS DBA roles in Atlanta, GA that require 10+ years of experience, strong skills in IMS system software, JCL, SMP/E tools, and full-time positions. I have found 27 positions for you.

Sure. Here's the analysis:

Job Analysis:

This Mainframe IMS DBA role is fundamentally focused on ensuring the stability, performance, and availability of IMS database environments on the z/OS platform, which are critical for enterprise applications that demand high reliability and throughput. The candidate is expected to have deep technical expertise with IMS system software, including installation, upgrades, and ongoing maintenance — a reflection of the mission-critical nature of the systems they will manage. Troubleshooting complex environment issues, managing transactions and program integration, and disaster recovery are core responsibilities that suggest the role demands both a proactive problem solver and a detail-oriented operator. The requirement for experience with IMS Sysplex and data-sharing environments indicates a need to handle high-availability and scalability challenges often present in large-scale enterprise systems. Familiarity with complementary mainframe technologies (Db2, CICS, VTAM/IP) underlines the cross-functional collaboration needed to keep multi-component systems running seamlessly. The inclusion of ITIL processes signifies that this role is embedded within a structured IT service management framework, demanding not only technical mastery but also alignment to process rigor and governance. Successful candidates will likely be those who combine extensive technical skill with the ability to communicate effectively across teams, manage critical incidents calmly, and continuously optimize system performance within strict operational SLAs.

Company Analysis:

Dice operates as a specialized technology career platform with a mission to connect tech professionals at all career stages with relevant job opportunities. Unlike the direct employer role here, this position is sourced through Dice for The Brixton Group, a client that relies on Dice's network and vetting capabilities. Dice’s culture and values seem built around facilitating growth, innovation, and continual learning in the tech space, suggesting that candidates valuing career development and industry insight will thrive. Given Dice’s positioning as a trusted intermediary rather than a direct technology creator or user, the company offers a supportive ecosystem rather than a traditional corporate environment. The job itself is tied to The Brixton Group’s operational needs, so the candidate would operate in an enterprise environment with stable but complex mainframe infrastructure, where reliability and operational excellence are paramount. This contextualizes the role as one demanding seasoned expertise on mature yet mission-critical technology stacks. The role’s visibility might predominantly sit within IT operations or infrastructure teams rather than at high strategic levels, but it is essential for the business continuity and success of The Brixton Group’s client systems. Candidates should align with a culture valuing precision, reliability, and continuous improvement.

Absolutely. Here are some mock interview questions that could come up:

• Behavioral: Tell me about a time when you had to troubleshoot a complex IMS environment issue under tight deadlines. How did you approach the problem and what was the outcome?
• Behavioral: Describe a situation where you had to collaborate with multiple IT teams (e.g., Db2, CICS) to resolve a system integration challenge. How did you coordinate and communicate?
• Behavioral: Share an experience where you had to implement an ITIL-based change or incident management process within your IMS DBA duties. What challenges did you face and how did you overcome them?
• Behavioral: Give an example of when you identified a system performance bottleneck and what steps you took to improve the IMS system’s operation.
• Technical: Can you walk me through your process for performing IMS system upgrades and ensuring minimal disruption to production environments?
• Technical: How do you utilize tools like SYSVIEW and SMP/E for IMS health checks and troubleshooting? What key metrics or logs do you monitor?
• Technical: Explain your experience with IMS DBRC, logging, and control blocks (DBDs, PSBs, ACBs). How do these components impact database recovery and transactional integrity?
• Technical: What strategies have you used to manage IMS Sysplex and data-sharing environments to enhance availability and scalability?
• Situational: Imagine the IMS system suddenly experiences frequent transaction failures. What immediate steps would you take to diagnose and remediate the issue?
• Situational: You are tasked with designing a disaster recovery test plan for IMS systems involving COLD and WARM restarts. How would you structure this plan to ensure operational readiness?
• Situational: If you notice a recurring incident that hasn't been resolved despite multiple fixes, how would you approach root cause analysis and prevent future occurrences?
• Company Fit/Motivation: What attracts you to working with Dice and its client The Brixton Group, especially in a role focused on mainframe IMS environments?
• Company Fit/Motivation: How do your professional values and career aspirations align with Dice's emphasis on continuous learning and career growth in technology?
• Company Fit/Motivation: Given the nature of the role and Dice’s positioning, how do you see yourself contributing beyond technical skills to help improve IT service delivery?
• Questions for Interviewer: How does the IT team currently measure success and performance for the IMS DBA role? What are the biggest ongoing challenges?
• Questions for Interviewer: Can you describe the typical collaboration environment between IMS DBAs and other mainframe subsystems like Db2 and CICS within the client organization?
• Questions for Interviewer: What opportunities for professional development and training does Dice offer or facilitate for contract roles like this one?