Mainframe Systems Programmer

Researches, analyzes, defines, designs, tests, checks and plans activities and applications of new technologies to processes. Recommends courses of action on new applications development when systems problems arise. Monitors the rapidly changing systems development environment (software products, programming languages, operating systems, hardware availability, technology trends, relational databases, etc.), and assists with the transition to new technologies, providing research and problem-solving support, mentoring, training, etc. Has contact with all levels of personnel, both within and outside of Western & Southern Financial Group (W&SFG). Works with minimal supervision and is responsible to make an established range of decisions, escalates to manager when necessary and updates manager on a regular basis.

What you will do:

• Performs as the top-level technical expert in one or more highly specialized areas of infrastructure. Exhibits a work ethic that is emulated by other team members or is adopted as a best current practice.


• Monitors new developments in software/hardware marketplace. Identifies new products with potential benefit to W&SFG and conducts in-depth research and analysis of these products. Demonstrates the applicability of tools in real-world applications.


• Monitors emerging technology trends (mobile computing, imaging, client/server, data warehousing, object oriented design, etc.). Investigates their use in W&SFG and recommends adoption of new technologies/methodologies when appropriate.


• Assists other programmers in becoming productive with new tools and techniques, through formal training, one-on-one mentoring and problem-solving assistance.


• Provides “swat team” style support to development projects, by resolving problems of the most complex, technical nature. Ensures projects remain on track with very aggressive schedules.


• Develops standards/guidelines that influence implementation of new technologies throughout W&SFG development staff.


• Develops common, reusable code shared by developers throughout W&SFG.


• Provides high-level technical and application problem analysis.


• Engages in research, definition, design, development, testing, checkout and debugging of new systems, new technologies and/or major systems’ improvements; frequently handles or directs projects, from research to implementation.


• Designs elements of new systems and major modifications with consideration for the elements of time, cost, controls and flexibility. Assures that programming and JCL are hardware efficient; utilizes all programming tools effectively. Directs walk-throughs and program inspections.


• Directs activities for programming and technical projects by functioning as an advisor or project leader. Drives projects from inception through completion by coordinating activities between programmer teams and business partners (outside the Company).


• Evaluates and determines feasibility of proposed projects and evaluates new software packages in terms of cost, resources required, systems compatibility, etc., and makes recommendations.


• Provides training and/or advice to Programmers, Database Administrators, Technical Analysts, Systems Managers, Department Management or Operating Department personnel on technical topics, systems definition and new productivity products.
• Performs other duties as assigned


• Complies with all policies and standards

• Bachelor’s Degree (Required) or


• Commensurate selection criteria experience (Required)
• Proven extensive programming experience in a technical analyst/data base administrator role. Cite examples of multiple programming projects and technical programming skills. (Required) and


• Demonstrated experience setting goals and successfully implementing and achieving goals. Cite examples of seeking to improve business and technical processes. (Required) and


• Demonstrated experience effectively handling customers and providing excellent service. (Required) and


• Demonstrated experience working effectively within a team. Cite examples of motivating co-workers in difficult situations. (Required)
• Proven ability to provide both technical and application training and mentoring to other programming/technical staff.


• Demonstrated ability to function on a project level, on application and technical projects, with little or no supervision.


• Demonstrated adaptability when required to adjust to multiple demands, shifting priorities, ambiguity and rapid change. Cite examples.


• Proven strong analytical skills, including demonstrated experience identifying and quantifying problems and providing effective resolutions. Cite examples of good decision-making skills when dealing with multiple alternatives


• Must provide examples of working under multiple deadlines and minimal supervision. Cite examples of successfully organizing and effectively completing projects where given little or no direction.


• Possesses and displays excellent verbal and written communication skills with ability to convey information to internal and external customers in a clear, focused and concise manner.


• Working knowledge of word processing, spreadsheet and database applications.


• Proven skills in working in all aspects of a mainframe/communications/relational database environment

Work Setting/Position Demands:

• Works in an office setting and remains in a stationary position for long periods of time while working at a desk, on a computer or with other standard office equipment, or while in meetings.


• Requires the ability to verbally communicate and exchange accurate information to customers and associates on a regular basis.


• Requires visual acuity to read and interpret a variety of correspondence, procedures, reports and forms via paper and electronic documents, visual inspection involving small defects; small parts, and/or operation of machinery (including inspection); using measurement devices continuously. Visual acuity is required to determine accuracy, neatness, and thoroughness of work assigned.


• Requires the ability to prepare written correspondence, reports and forms using prescribed formats and conforming to rules of punctuation, grammar, diction, and style on a regular basis.


• Requires the ability to apply principles of logical thinking to define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions


• Performs substantial movement of wrists, hands, and fingers for continuous computer work.


• Extended hours required during peak workloads or special projects/events.

Travel Requirements:

• None