JOB SUMMARY

As a Mainframe Systems Architect, you will provide critical technical leadership for the infrastructure supporting MAXIS, Minnesota Electronic Child Care (MEC²), PRISM, and Minnesota Child Support Online (MCSO) applications—key systems used by the Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) to manage vital human services programs, including eligibility determination, case management, and financial transactions for state and tribal programs. This role is focused on the design, architecture, and security of mainframe systems and their integration with other state systems. You will oversee database administration, disaster recovery, system performance, and upgrades, ensuring the continued reliability and scalability of these key systems. Additionally, you will provide expert guidance in crisis management and system troubleshooting, working closely with technical teams, architects, and external vendors to maintain system integrity and support ongoing development and maintenance efforts.
This is a Remote Worker position, where the employees home address shall serve as their official work location and must be located within the continental United States. Remote work is a condition of employment. This job posting will be used to fill multiple vacancies; all applicants will be considered for all vacancies.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Candidates must clearly demonstrate all of the following qualifications in their resume. Resume tips here.:
Position requires a minimum of six (6) years of increasing responsibilities and experience in mainframe application development.

Experience must include:

• Proficiency in COBOL, NATURAL, and Assembler programming languages.
• Strong knowledge of mainframe operating systems, such as z/OS, CICS, and DBMS technologies, including ADABAS and DB2.
• Use of system software tools such as IBM utilities, TSO, and job control language (JCL).
• Knowledge of architect standards and conventions such as TOGAF, ISO/IEC, Zachman, Federal Enterprise Architecture, etc.
• Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to adapt to changing requirements and troubleshoot critical issues under pressure.
• Communicating complex technical concepts clearly and effectively to both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Providing excellent customer service, including active listening, empathy, and effective problem-solving.

A master’s degree in Information Technology or an IT related field substitutes for three (3) years of experience, OR an IT related bachelor’s degree substitutes for two (2) years, OR an IT related associate’s degree substitutes for one (1) year.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Experience in the administration of large-scale systems and databases, specifically with MAXIS and PRISM, or similar state-level systems.
• Advanced understanding of performance monitoring tools and data analytics for large systems.
• Familiarity with newer database and software technologies and their integration into legacy systems.
• Demonstrated expertise in disaster recovery procedures and ensuring system uptime.
• Leadership experience in guiding teams through technical challenges and decision-making processes.
• Relevant certifications in systems architecture or cloud technologies (e.g., TOGAF, AWS Certified Solutions Architect).

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

It is the policy of Minnesota IT Services that a successful candidate must pass all legally required checks prior to employment which may consist of the following:

• SEMA4 Records Check (applies to current and past state employees only)
• Criminal History Check
• Reference Check
• Social Security and Address Verification
• Education Verification
• Other legally required checks

APPLICANTS WITH DISABILITIES

Minnesota state agencies make reasonable accommodations to their employees and applicants with disabilities. If you have a disability and need assistance in searching or applying for jobs with the State of Minnesota, call the Careers Help Desk at 651-259-3637 or email careers@state.mn.us and let us know the support you need

At the State of Minnesota, employees play a critical role in developing policies, providing essential services, and working to improve the well-being and quality of life for all Minnesotans. The State of Minnesota is committed to equity and inclusion, and invests in employees by providing benefits, support resources, and training and development opportunities.
Join the 2,800+ professionals of Minnesota IT Services (MNIT) who connect Minnesotans to services that will improve their lives. This position serves our partners at the Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF). The MNIT DCYF team supports critical systems and applications that ensure the welfare and development of Minnesota’s children, youth, and families. You will be a part of a team that works to provide comprehensive services and support that nurture and protect children, enhance family well-being, and foster youth development across the state.