Principal Mainframe Architect
Core
Define strategic direction, architecture standards, and long-term roadmap for the enterprise mainframe ecosystem while leading large-scale application modernization and hybrid cloud integration.
Role type
Principal Mainframe Architect (Strategic IC)
Builds
Enterprise mainframe platforms, modernized applications, and hybrid cloud-integrated solutions
Domain
Banking/Insurance/Government/Healthcare mainframe modernization
Deliverable
production ML models | product features | infrastructure
Required skills
IBM z/OS architecture, CICS, IMS, DB2, MQ, VSAM, COBOL, PL/I, Assembler, JCL, performance engineering, workload management, capacity planning, mainframe security (RACF/ACF2/Top Secret), legacy mainframe stack (Fujitsu GS21), distributed systems integration, API enablement, DevOps/CI/CD, disaster recovery planning
Preferred skills
IBM certifications (z/OS, z Systems Architecture, DB2, CICS), regulated industry experience
Technologies
IBM z Systems, z/OS, Sysplex, GDPS, CICS, IMS, DB2, MQ, VSAM, Fujitsu GS21, AWS, Azure, GCP
Responsibilities
Own and drive enterprise mainframe architecture vision and roadmap; Lead and govern application modernization initiatives (re-hosting, re-platforming, refactoring); Act as highest-level technical authority for IBM z/OS; Define and enforce architecture standards and best practices; Provide architectural oversight for capacity planning, performance, and cost optimization; Partner with CIO/CTO to influence technology decisions; Ensure architecture compliance with security and regulatory requirements; Mentor architects and senior engineers
Seniority
Principal, strategic leadership with hands-on architectural authority