Mainframe Modernization & CI/CD Transformation Lead
NTT DATA's client is currently seeking a Mainframe Modernization & CI/CD Transformation Lead to join their team in McKinney, Texas (US-TX), United States (US). This role will drive the standardization and modernization of developer tooling, CI/CD pipelines, and engineering practices as part of the transition from z/VSE to z/OS.
The role will define and implement a target-state developer ecosystem, bringing consistency across disparate mainframe systems and enabling modern DevOps practices aligned with enterprise standards.
Key Responsibilities
- Target State Definition
- Define and establish a future-state mainframe development ecosystem aligned to GitHub, VS Code, and modern CI/CD practices
- Standardize tools, platforms, and processes across multiple mainframe environments
- CI/CD & DevOps Transformation
- Design and implement end-to-end CI/CD pipelines for z/OS applications leveraging tools such as GitHub, IBM DBB, and Wazi Deploy
- Enable integration with modern developer tools (VS Code, Z Open Editor, Zowe)
- Tools Strategy & Rationalization
- Evaluate and rationalize existing mainframe tools
- Drive adoption of standardized tooling stack (e.g., GitHub, Z Open Editor, debugging, testing, and analysis tools)
- Establish best practices for code management, scanning, testing, and deployment
- Engineering Experience
- Modernization: Improve developer productivity and experience through modern IDEs, automation, and AI-assisted development tools
- Enable shift from legacy (Eclipse/Endevor-based) environments to modern toolchains
- Change Management & Adoption
- Drive organizational change management across mainframe teams
- Lead training, communication, and onboarding for new tools and processes
- Ensure adoption of standardized development practices
- Collaboration & Governance
- Work closely with mainframe SMEs, application teams, infrastructure, and transformation leadership
- Establish governance, standards, and guardrails for consistent execution
Key Outcomes Expected
- Standardized mainframe developer toolchain across platforms
- Fully operational CI/CD pipelines for z/OS workloads
- Improved developer productivity and onboarding simplicity
- Reduced tool fragmentation and increased engineering consistency
- Accelerated modernization and readiness for future enhancements (AI, automation, etc.)
Required Skills & Experience
- 12+ years experience in Mainframe (z/OS, z/VSE migration experience preferred)
- Deep expertise in: Mainframe development (COBOL, JCL, PL/I) Modern DevOps practices and CI/CD implementation Tools such as GitHub, Jenkins/CI tools, IBM DBB, Zowe, VS Code / Z Open Editor
- Experience driving large-scale toolchain transformation and standardization
- Strong understanding of mainframe testing, debugging, and performance analysis tools
- Proven ability to lead change management and adoption across distributed teams
Preferred Experience
- Experience with IBM Application Delivery Foundation (ADFz) or similar toolsets
- Exposure to AI-assisted development tools (e.g., GitHub Copilot, IBM Bob)
- Experience in regulated industries (insurance, financial services)
About NTT DATA: NTT DATA provides a reasonable range of compensation for specific roles. The starting hourly range for this remote role is $70.00/hr to $80.00/hr. This range reflects the minimum and maximum target compensation for the position across all US locations. Actual compensation will depend on several factors, including the candidate's actual work location, relevant experience, technical skills, and other qualifications. This position may also be eligible for incentive compensation based on individual and/or company performance. This position is eligible for company benefits that will depend on the nature of the role offered. Company benefits may include medical, dental, and vision insurance, flexible spending or health savings account, life, and AD&D insurance, short-and long-term disability coverage, paid time off, employee assistance, participation in a 401k program with company match, and additional voluntary or legally required benefits.