Tower Lead (Support & Operations)

Job Summary

The AS/400 Operations Specialist is responsible for monitoring, maintaining, and supporting the IBM i (AS/400, iSeries) system environments. This role ensures high availability, optimal performance, and security of core business applications and databases. The ideal candidate will manage system backups, batch job processing, system messages, and basic troubleshooting, collaborating closely with system administrators and application development teams.

Key Responsibilities

1. System Monitoring & OperationsMonitor system consoles, active jobs, subsystem status, and system queues (job queues, output queues, message queues like QSYSOPR).Respond promptly to system messages, alerts, and inquiry messages to prevent processing bottlenecks or downtime.Manage and monitor CPU utilization, disk storage space (ASP), and memory allocation to ensure optimal system performance.2. Batch Processing & Job SchedulingMonitor, execute, and troubleshoot daily, weekly, and monthly interactive and batch processing runs.Manage job schedulers (such as IBM Advanced Job Scheduler, Robot Schedule, or native AS/400 Scheduler).Restart failed jobs, research job logs (QPJOBLOG), and coordinate with application support teams to resolve job failures.3. Backup, Recovery & Disaster Recovery (DR)Perform regular system backups (daily, weekly, monthly cumulative, and full system saves/Save 21).Manage physical/virtual tape libraries, tape rotation schedules, and offsite storage.Assist in Disaster Recovery (DR) drills and restore operations using tools like BRMS (Backup, Recovery, and Media Services).4. Security & User AdministrationManage user profiles, passwords, and object-level authorities under the guidance of the security policy.Monitor system audits and security logs to identify unauthorized access or anomalies.5. Maintenance & SupportAssist with the application of PTFs (Program Temporary Fixes) and OS upgrades during scheduled maintenance windows.Monitor replication environments and High Availability (HA) software (e.g., MIMIX, Quick-EDD, Maxava).Provide Level 1/Level 2 technical support for printer writer issues, connectivity problems, and terminal sessions.

Skill Requirements

Technical Skills:Operating System: Strong command of IBM i (OS/400, iSeries) operating system and CL (Command Language) commands (e.g., WRKACTJOB, WRKMSG, SNDMSG, DSPJOBLOG, WRKSPLF).Storage & Backups: Hands-on experience with BRMS (Backup, Recovery, and Media Services) and tape media management.Third-Party Tools: Experience with scheduling and monitoring tools (e.g., HelpSystems Robot Suite: Robot Schedule, Robot Console).High Availability: Basic understanding or experience with HA replication software (MIMIX, Maxava, etc.).Networking: Familiarity with TCP/IP configuration on IBM i, Telnet, FTP/SFTP, and NetServer.Professional Competencies:Problem-Solving: Ability to analyze job logs, spool files, and system messages to diagnose issues quickly.Communication: Clear verbal and written communication skills to coordinate with cross-functional IT teams and document incident resolutions.Adaptability: Ability to work in rotating shifts or provide on-call support for 24/7/365 environments.

Other Requirements