Mainframe Modernization Engineer

We are seeking a Mainframe Modernization Engineer to support a large-scale legacy transformation initiative to modernize COBOL-based systems into contemporary Java applications.

This is a hands-on engineering role focused on deep analysis of existing mainframe batch programs, active participation in modernization workflows, and close collaboration with Java engineering teams to ensure functional accuracy and performance throughout the transformation.

You will work directly with legacy codebases and modernized outputs, contributing technical insight that improves both code quality and modernization tooling.

Responsibilities:
• Analyze and interpret legacy COBOL batch programs running on IBM mainframes, including programs utilizing JCL, DB2, and VSAM.
• Understand and document functional logic, control flow, and data transformations to support modernization efforts.
• Review and validate automatically generated functional documentation for accuracy, completeness, and alignment with actual program behavior.
• Design and execute test cases to validate business logic and ensure output consistency between legacy and modernized systems.
• Compare Java program outputs against original COBOL program results to identify discrepancies.
• Collaborate with modernization and Java development teams to resolve mismatches and refine generated code.
• Participate in transformation quality assurance activities and contribute to continuous improvement of the modernization platform.

Required Experience:
• 5–8 years of hands-on experience working with COBOL on IBM mainframe environments.
• Strong experience with JCL, DB2, and VSAM.
• Hands-on experience supporting and analyzing mainframe batch jobs.
• Proven ability to analyze complex COBOL logic and map it to equivalent behavior in modern applications.
• Solid understanding of testing methodologies, validation techniques, and defect analysis.
• Strong analytical skills and attention to detail when reconciling outputs across systems.

Preferred Experience:
• Experience participating directly in large-scale legacy modernization or platform transformation initiatives.
• Exposure to Java, including Java on mainframe environments such as z/OS.
• Prior experience participating in COBOL-to-Java transformations or legacy modernization initiatives.
• Experience working alongside platform or tooling teams supporting automated code transformation.

McLaren Strategic Solutions is a leading-edge global technology consulting firm, addressing critical challenges across industries such as retail, financial services, and healthcare. Integrating a powerful ecosystem of platforms with capital-efficient execution, McLaren specializes in digital transformation to help businesses optimize operations, accelerate revenue, and achieve scalable outcomes. McLaren’s expertise spans the development of customer-centric applications, modernizing systems for cost-effectiveness and security, and leveraging cloud scalability for future-ready architectures. With a deep commitment to operational excellence, McLaren provides comprehensive managed services, including application maintenance, cybersecurity, platform solutions, and AI-optimized operations, ensuring seamless, secure, and efficient performance.

From supply chain automation to compliance and analytics, McLaren drives measurable impact: improving workforce productivity, reducing inventory costs, and cutting technology ownership expenses. With its emphasis on automation and zero business downtime, McLaren facilitates seamless migrations from legacy systems to modern platforms, enabling organizations to harness the full potential of digital transformation. Backed by strategic partnerships and a proven delivery model, McLaren empowers clients to innovate, modernize, and achieve lasting success in today’s digital economy.

McLaren is a certified minority owned business through the NMSDC and has a mission to place more people from non-traditional backgrounds into sustainable technology careers. Through partnerships with non-profit technology programs in underserved communities and Veteran organizations, candidates transition from tech training programs into real IT careers at McLaren. Our unique recruitment policy allows us to create exceptional teams, bringing a broad spectrum of experience to our company and creating anything but a traditional consulting firm.

Visit McLaren Strategic Solutions to learn more!

Doran Jones Inc. is proud to be part of the McLaren Strategic Ventures Group.