Mainframe Z System Verification Tester Apprentice

Introduction

At IBM Infrastructure & Technology, we design and operate the systems that keep the world running. From high-resiliency mainframes and hybrid cloud platforms to networking, automation, and site reliability. Our teams ensure the performance, security, and scalability that clients and industries depend on every day. Working in Infrastructure & Technology means tackling complex challenges with curiosity and collaboration. You'll work with diverse technologies and colleagues worldwide to deliver resilient, future-ready solutions that power innovation. With continuous learning, career growth, and a supportive culture, IBM provides the opportunities to build expertise and shape the infrastructure that drives progress.

Your role and responsibilities

Are you interested in pursuing a systems administration career? Are you someone that has a foundational understanding of systems administration, but want to take a less traditional path to achieve it?

As a Mainframe System Administrator at IBM, you’ll work with other System Administrators, Systems Programmers, network, and application teams to perform daily activities ranging in complexity and will be responsible for the installation, configuration, upkeep, and reliable operation of one or more client environments. You may also work closely with Independent Software Vendors (ISVs) to customize application solutions and tools to help improve the value of the z Systems platform to our clients.

Throughout your apprenticeship, you’ll work as part of a diverse team to support our clients as they use our systems to outthink the competition. You’ll learn the fundamentals of mainframe computing, and will master skills like: deploying and managing operating systems, implementing monitoring, configuration management, and reporting, executing change management, implementing system security, coding JCL and writing simple REXX programs.

Our apprenticeship program will give you the opportunity to build your skills to grow your career as a Mainframe System Administrator.

What is an Apprenticeship?

IBM Apprenticeship Program, which lasts approximately 18 months, is an official registered apprenticeship recognized by the Department of Labor (DOL). Every graduate of a Registered Apprenticeship program receives a nationally-recognized credential from the DOL.

During the apprenticeship duration, you will be required to complete specific learning hours and on the job training that has been outlined to ensure you are developing the skills and competencies essential to the role. You will be able to learn and grow at your own pace, but we expect most apprentices will complete their learning within 12 months. Once you graduate and receive your certificate from our apprentice program, you will be eligible to apply to available full-time roles at IBM.

Who you Are

An apprenticeship is about learning. We’re seeking candidates who have the following requirements, but we know you’re just getting your career started, and we’re committed to helping you learn and grow. If you’ve had some experience with mainframes or coding/development in the past, you’re exactly the type of candidate we’re looking for.

To be successful, you need:

• Drive and eagerness to learn

• Strong problem solving, critical thinking, organization, and communication skills

• Ability to work independently and take initiative, as well as work collaboratively and contribute to an agile team environment

• Some basic knowledge or experience in ONE or more of the following is preferred:

• Mainframe hardware and systems functions

• Installing, troubleshooting, operating, testing, planning or configuring relevant technologies

• Reading and interpreting mainframe system/application program dumps and traces

• Proficiency in the use of applications running on Windows and Linux workstations

What’s the Experience?

As an apprentice, you'll join with other apprentices in a local cohort. You'll go through your first few weeks together, learning about IBM and the skills you'll be attaining throughout your apprenticeship. Then, you'll work with your managers and mentors to progress through your personal skills roadmap, learning and demonstrating new knowledge and competencies through hands-on application with your project teams. You'll complete milestones along the way, earning digital credentials to validate your skills, and will come back together with other apprentices to participate in on-going training and development focused on your professional and technical skills. Best of all, you are a contributing member of your team, putting forward ideas, taking on responsibilities and making choices about how you get the job done just like any other IBMer.

This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship. No relocation is available for this position.

Required technical and professional expertise

• Willingness to complete the requirements of the apprenticeship program

• 0 - 2 years work experience in a customer-oriented role

Preferred technical and professional experience

• An Associate’s degree in Computer Science or other related discipline is preferred, but not required

IBM is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal-opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, caste, genetics, pregnancy, disability, neurodivergence, age, veteran status, or other characteristics. IBM is also committed to compliance with all fair employment practices regarding citizenship and immigration status.