
Mainframe DevOps Engineer - IBM Z Systems
Kforce Inc · Armonk, NY
SecurityRemote
About this role
The role involves leading a large-scale migration from CA-ACF2 and RC/Secure to IBM Security Server (RACF) for a major enterprise. The candidate will be responsible for planning, migrating, and validating security definitions across mainframe environments, collaborating with system administrators, application owners, and security teams to ensure a secure and compliant transition.
Skills & technologies
Must have
- Mainframe Security Administration
- z/OS
- CICS
- IMS
- DB2
- CA-ACF2
- RACF
- Security Database Migration
- Access Control
- Password Management
- Scripting
- REXX
- CLIST
- Python on z/OS
Nice to have
- ACF2-to-RACF Migration Experience
- CA-RC/Secure
- IMS Interfaces
- IBM Z Security Tools
- Compliance Frameworks (SOX, PCI, NIST)
- Automation Skills
Read full description
About the job
Responsibilities
Kforce has a client that is seeking a Mainframe Security Engineer - ACF2 to RACF Migration for a long-term contract remote role. Summary: We're looking for an experienced Mainframe Security Engineer to support a large-scale migration from CA-ACF2 and RC/Secure to IBM Security Server (RACF). This is a high-impact modernization initiative that enhances enterprise security and access management across IBM Z environments. You'll play a key role in planning, migrating, and validating security definitions that protect critical mainframe assets - collaborating with system administrators, application owners, and security teams to ensure a smooth, compliant, and secure transition. Responsibilities:
Lead the migration of CA-ACF2 and RC/Secure for DB2 to IBM Security Server (RACF)
Migrate and validate security definitions for user/system IDs, datasets, and subsystems (CICS, IMS, DB2)
Work with teams to export and convert ACF2 security databases at designated cutover points
Implement and test password propagation solutions to maintain user credentials during migration
Collaborate across system, network, and application teams to test, document, and promote RACF-based access control
Execute migration on a sysplex-by-sysplex basis, ensuring minimal disruption to production systems
Requirements
5+ years of experience with mainframe security administration on z/OS
Hands-on expertise with CA-ACF2 and/or RACF (IBM Security Server)
Strong knowledge of z/OS, CICS, IMS, and DB2 subsystems
Understanding of security database migration, access control, and password management
Excellent analytical and troubleshooting skills in large, complex mainframe environments
Preferred Skills
Prior experience executing ACF2-to-RACF migrations or similar z/OS security conversions
Familiarity with CA-RC/Secure, IMS interfaces, or other IBM Z security tools
Knowledge of compliance frameworks (e.g., SOX, PCI, or NIST) within mainframe contexts
Ability to script or automate security administration tasks (REXX, CLIST, or Python on z/OS)
Why Join Us
Contribute to a strategic Z security modernization program impacting thousands of enterprise users
Work with leading-edge technologies in a large-scale transformation environment
Collaborate with cross-functional mainframe experts across engineering, operations, and DevSecOps
Competitive compensation, growth potential, and long-term project stability
The pay range is the lowest to highest compensation we reasonably in good faith believe we would pay at posting for this role. We may ultimately pay more or less than this range. Employee pay is based on factors like relevant education, qualifications, certifications, experience, skills, seniority, location, performance, union contract and business needs. This range may be modified in the future.
We offer comprehensive benefits including medical/dental/vision insurance, HSA, FSA, 401(k), and life, disability & ADD insurance to eligible employees. Salaried personnel receive paid time off. Hourly employees are not eligible for paid time off unless required by law. Hourly employees on a Service Contract Act project are eligible for paid sick leave.
Note: Pay is not considered compensation until it is earned, vested and determinable. The amount and availability of any compensation remains in Kforce's sole discretion unless and until paid and may be modified in its discretion consistent with the law.
This job is not eligible for bonuses, incentives or commissions.
Kforce is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran status, or disability status.
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$60/hr - $70/hr · Vision, +1 benefitApply now