JCL Developer Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In today’s technologically-driven world, JCL Developers have come to the forefront.

As technology continues to progress, the demand for skilled individuals capable of crafting, enhancing, and protecting our digital infrastructure has become even more pressing.

But let’s delve deeper: What exactly does a JCL Developer do?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to grasp the core of this role,
• A hiring manager constructing the perfect candidate profile,
• Or merely fascinated by the intricacies of JCL Development,

You’ve landed on the right page.

Today, we present you with a customizable JCL Developer job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

JCL Developer Duties and Responsibilities

JCL Developers are responsible for creating, maintaining, and managing Job Control Language scripts in mainframe environments.

They work closely with other IT professionals, system analysts, and users to ensure that the mainframe systems run efficiently and smoothly.

Their specific duties and responsibilities include:

• Developing and modifying JCL codes to perform specific tasks in mainframe systems
• Testing and debugging JCL procedures to ensure their accuracy and efficiency
• Maintaining and updating existing JCL codes as needed
• Working closely with system analysts and users to understand their needs and requirements
• Creating technical documentation related to JCL procedures and updating them when necessary
• Assisting in problem resolution and providing technical support for mainframe systems
• Performing performance tuning of JCL scripts to optimize system performance
• Ensuring the security and confidentiality of data processed by JCL
• Training and mentoring junior JCL developers and other team members

 

JCL Developer Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a skilled JCL Developer to join our team.

As a JCL Developer, you will create, modify, and maintain job control language (JCL) procedures on mainframe systems.

The ideal candidate for this role is familiar with the full software development life cycle (SDLC), from preliminary system analysis to tests and deployment.

Ultimately, the role of the JCL Developer is to build high-quality, efficient JCL procedures that adhere to coding standards and technical design.

 

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and maintain JCL procedures on mainframe systems
• Execute full software development life cycle (SDLC)
• Identify requirements and develop solutions
• Create and execute test plans
• Perform debugging and troubleshooting of JCL procedures
• Perform code reviews to ensure quality and adherence to standards
• Document all processes and system changes
• Collaborate with other developers, systems analysts, and project managers

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a JCL Developer or similar role
• Experience with JCL, COBOL, and mainframe systems
• Knowledge of IBM utilities and commonly used mainframe tools
• Ability to develop and debug JCL procedures
• Proficiency with database systems and SQL
• Experience with software development methodologies
• Detail-oriented and excellent problem-solving skills
• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, or a related field

 

Benefits

• 401(k) plan
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
• Generous paid time off
• Opportunities for professional development
• Work-life balance with flexible work options

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: JCL Developer
• Work Environment: Office setting with options for remote work. Minimal travel may be required for team meetings or client consultations.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the IT Manager or Development Team Lead.
• Salary: Salary is based on experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a JCL Developer Do?

JCL Developers, or Job Control Language Developers, typically work in IT departments for corporations across industries or within IT firms.

They can also work as freelancers or consultants.

Their primary role is to create, analyze, and debug JCL statements in mainframe applications.

They handle JCL jobs, which are essentially programs that run on a mainframe computer.

These jobs are responsible for the execution of procedures and tasks such as compiling programs, creating backup files, or moving data.

JCL Developers work closely with system analysts and programmers to understand the business needs and requirements.

They then write the JCL codes to achieve these tasks.

Moreover, they are also responsible for monitoring job performance and handling runtime issues.

They often have to debug and correct job errors.

JCL Developers also perform system checks and ensure that the system operates at its peak performance.

They review and refine past designs and codes, making corrections or enhancements as necessary.

They also document the process and provide instructions for operators to run the JCL jobs.

Their role may also involve training and guiding junior developers or new team members in understanding the JCL codes and procedures.

 

JCL Developer Qualifications and Skills

JCL Developers utilize their technical skills, coding expertise, and industry knowledge to program and maintain job control language systems.

The key qualifications and skills required for a JCL Developer include:

• Extensive experience with JCL, COBOL, and DB2 development, and knowledge of IBM Mainframe environments.
• Strong analytical skills to understand and transform complex business requirements into software systems.
• Proficient with troubleshooting and debugging, which involves identifying and resolving errors in the JCL code or system.
• Ability to work in a team environment, collaborating with system analysts, architects, and other developers using effective communication and interpersonal skills.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail, ensuring that all code is written in an accurate and efficient manner.
• Experience with version control and software development methodologies to maintain code quality and manage project progress.
• Understanding of data privacy standards and security processes to ensure the safety and integrity of data processed through JCL programs.
• Continuous learning mentality to stay updated with the latest technologies and programming languages.

 

JCL Developer Experience Requirements

Entry-level candidates for a JCL Developer role may have 1 to 2 years of experience, often through an internship or part-time position in mainframe development.

They will gain valuable experience in roles such as a Mainframe Programmer, System Analyst or IT support roles that offer opportunities to work closely with JCL coding.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience often enhance their technical skills and knowledge in entry-level JCL Developer roles.

They may have a solid understanding of JCL programming, debugging, system utilities, system commands, data management and security.

Those with more than 5 years of experience may have advanced knowledge in mainframe systems, including JCL, COBOL, CICS, VSAM, and DB2.

They may have experience in leading complex projects that involve mainframe development and may be ready for a leadership or management position.

Additionally, some roles may require experience with specific mainframe tools and systems, or certain industries like banking, healthcare or government, where mainframe systems are often used.

It is often advantageous to have experience in an industry relevant to the role.

 

JCL Developer Education and Training Requirements

JCL Developers typically have a bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field.

Their education should provide them with a solid understanding of various programming languages, though specific knowledge of JCL (Job Control Language) is crucial.

Some roles may require a JCL Developer to have postgraduate qualifications, such as a master’s degree in a specialized IT or computer science discipline.

In addition to the educational qualifications, a JCL Developer should have a comprehensive understanding of mainframe systems, COBOL programming, and databases like DB2 and IMS.

Training in systems analysis, code debugging, and data management is also beneficial for these developers.

Some employers may also prefer developers who have gained certifications in mainframe technology or specific programming languages.

Practical experience, either through internships, co-op placements, or entry-level positions, is highly beneficial and often required.

It provides hands-on experience in developing, testing, and maintaining JCL scripts and procedures.

Ongoing education and learning are critical in this field, given the rapid evolution of technology and programming languages.

 

JCL Developer Salary Expectations

A JCL Developer can expect to earn an average salary of $74,908 (USD) per year.

The actual earnings may vary based on factors such as individual experience, the complexity of the project, the employing company, and the location of the job.

 

JCL Developer Job Description FAQs

What skills does a JCL Developer need?

A JCL Developer should have a deep understanding of JCL (Job Control Language) along with other mainframe technologies such as VSAM, CICS, DB2, and COBOL.

They must possess strong analytical and problem-solving skills to debug and optimize JCL jobs.

Good communication skills are also essential for JCL Developers to interact effectively with team members and stakeholders.

 

Do JCL Developers need a degree?

Most JCL Developers have a degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or related fields.

However, the focus is more on the technical skills and familiarity with mainframe technologies.

Having certifications in mainframe technologies and JCL could be advantageous.

 

What should you look for in a JCL Developer resume?

When examining a JCL Developer’s resume, look for experience with mainframe technologies, especially JCL.

Check for knowledge in data management, application development, and software testing.

Any experience with system analysis, debugging, and optimization would be an added advantage.

Proficiency in other programming languages like COBOL, CICS, and DB2 is also desirable.

 

What qualities make a good JCL Developer?

A good JCL Developer is detail-oriented and has excellent problem-solving skills.

They have a strong understanding of mainframe systems, JCL, and related technologies.

They are self-motivated, constantly learning and updating themselves with new advancements in mainframe technology.

Good JCL Developers also have strong communication skills to effectively convey technical information to non-technical team members.

 

Is it difficult to hire JCL Developers?

Finding skilled JCL Developers can be a challenging task, as mainframe technologies such as JCL are quite specialized.

Therefore, the pool of skilled candidates may be smaller than for other IT roles.

It is crucial to provide attractive job benefits and continuous learning opportunities to attract and retain talented JCL Developers.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve demystified what it truly means to be a JCL developer.

Guess what?

It’s not solely about scripting.

It’s about shaping the digital infrastructure, one JCL script at a time.

Armed with our comprehensive JCL developer job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to make your mark.

But why stop there?

Delve deeper with our job description generator. It’s your path to meticulously-drafted listings or for refining your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every JCL script contributes to a larger digital framework.

Let’s build that future. Together.

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