About the role
Migration Specialist – IBM Z Workload Scheduler (IZWS)
Location: Chennai / Pune /Level 4
What does a Migration Specialist do?
A Migration Specialist is responsible for planning, analyzing, and executing the transition of scheduling systems (e.g., CA ESP) to IBM Z Workload Scheduler (IZWS).
They ensure smooth data conversion, system setup, customization handling, testing, and production cutover, while working closely with IBM migration teams and internal stakeholders.
Work Timing: 9×5 US Day shift
Support Model: On call + extended support during critical phases (cutover, migration, validation)
Responsibilities:
- Analyze and identify external dependencies and integrations in the existing CA Workload Automation ESP scheduler environment.
- Collect, validate, and provide scheduling and migration-related data required for analysis and execution.
- Work closely with IBM Migration Specialists and participate in regular status and technical sessions.
- Support end-to-end migration lifecycle, including data preparation, conversion, validation, and production cutover.
- Perform SMP/E installation and customization of IBM Z Workload Scheduler (IZWS) and ensure operational readiness.
- Execute daily validation, defect fixing, and tracking during migration and parallel run phases.
- Participate in parallel tracking, analyze discrepancies, and perform root cause analysis.
- Review, validate, and sign off on parallel run results and final migration outcomes.
- Support OMA tool execution, validation, and sign-off processes.
- Code and customize scheduler exits/modules with IBM guidance where required.
- Ensure adherence to migration best practices, agreed processes, and solution frameworks.
What we look for/who would prosper in this role?
- Strong analytical and problem-solving mindset
- Ability to understand complex scheduling environments and dependencies
- Comfortable working in migration/transformation projects
- Good communication skills for coordination with IBM and internal teams
- Ability to handle pressure during cutover and critical phases
- Detail-oriented with strong documentation and validation skills
- Team player with ability to work cross-functionally (infra, security, apps)
Desirable Technical Capabilities:
Core Skills
- Strong hands-on experience with Mainframe Scheduling tools, especially:
- CA Workload Automation ESP
- IBM Z Workload Scheduler (IZWS)
- Deep understanding of batch processing, job scheduling, and workflow automation
- Rexx and JCL scripting knowledge is mandatory
- Expertise in scheduler migration/conversion projects
- Strong knowledge of mainframe technologies (z/OS, JCL, SMP/E)
- Experience in parallel run validation and production cutover processes
- Ability to analyze scheduler dependencies, external interfaces, and integrations
Secondary Skills
- Knowledge with IBM OMA (Database Conversion tool)
- Knowledge of scheduler database conversion techniques
- Knowledge in tool customization and migration scripting
- Familiarity with parallel tracking reports and issue diagnosis
- Understanding of scheduler-related APIs, integrations, and automation tools
- Working knowledge of DevOps or automation practices in mainframe environments
Good to Have Knowledge
- Exposure to cutover planning and large migration projects
- Prior engagement with IBM migration projects or tools
- Exposure to system integration, infrastructure, and security frameworks
- Knowledge of hybrid environments (mainframe + distributed/cloud)
Resource Requirement:
Category
Location
HR Level
Total EXP
Relevant EXP
Duration
Mid-Level
offshore
4
6+
4+
15 Months
Primary / Core Resource – Must Have:
- 4–5 years in IBM Workload Scheduler (IWS / IZWS / TWS z/OS) -
- Hands-on experience in at least 1 migration project (preferred CA → IZWS)
- End-to-end migration lifecycle (analysis → cutover)