AS400 System Architect

Job Title: AS400 Systems Architect

The AS400 Systems Architect is responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining the technical infrastructure of the IBM iSeries platform.

This role ensures the reliable, secure, and optimized operation of all iSeries hardware, software, and network components. The architect leads strategic planning, system performance, disaster recovery readiness, and collaborates closely with internal teams and external vendors to align infrastructure services with business needs.

Key Responsibilities:

• Strategic Planning: Develop and execute long-term infrastructure strategies for the iSeries environment.
• System Oversight: Manage the full lifecycle of AS400 systems including hardware, software, storage, and network connectivity. Install, upgrade, and maintain IBMi-OS and related PTF software on the AS/400 system. Collaborate with application developers to ensure compatibility and optimal performance.
• Performance Monitoring: Ensure optimal system performance, reliability, and availability through regular monitoring and tuning.
• Security and Compliance: Implement industry-standard security protocols and maintain compliance with relevant regulations.
• Project Management: Lead infrastructure projects such as AS400 hardware refresh, system upgrades, and migrations.
• Cross-Team Collaboration: Work closely with application teams, business users, project managers, and vendors.
• Capacity Management: Conduct regular capacity planning and system forecasting to support future growth.
• Troubleshooting: Identify and resolve system issues promptly, providing Tier 3 support when needed.
• Disaster Recovery: Maintain disaster recovery plans and oversee regular testing for AS400 systems.
• Backup and Recovery: Manage backup policies and ensure successful data recovery processes.
• Vendor Relations: Engage and manage vendors to ensure service quality and contract compliance.
• Reporting: Provide regular updates, KPIs, and performance metrics to management.
• Team Leadership: Mentor junior infrastructure staff and provide ongoing training and development.
• Documentation: Maintain accurate and up-to-date documentation of system configurations, procedures, and troubleshooting guides.

Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree in computer science, Information Technology, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
• Minimum 10 years of experience as an AS/400 Administrator or in a similar role.
• In-depth knowledge of IBM iSeries hardware, OS/400 operating system, and associated software.
• IT processes, policies, and procedures.
• Strong problem-solving and troubleshooting skills.
• Knowledge on iSeries application structure, operating system, installation specifications, troubleshooting, problem determination, and data restoration techniques. Knowledge on IBM products like WebSphere-MQ, CDC & iCluster replication, BRMS, ROBOT scheduler, and SKLM encryption. Knowledge of security best practices and experience in implementing security measures.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills.
• Good knowledge of SQL, CL, and MS Office Tools (including MS Access).
• Troubleshooting skills for data, application/system performance problems by utilizing tools like IBM idoctor, performance manager, and Job watcher.
• Must be able to multitask and manage multiple initiatives when required.
• Willing to work when required.
• Mature and strong leadership skill to lead both technical and service operation management.
• Possess excellent communication skills; able to read, write, and speak English.
• Must be willing and available to work after office hours, weekends for deployment activities and be on remote standby duty including occasional weekends when required.