Mainframe Applications Specialist
Plains - Houston, TX
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Job Type:RegularPlains All American is an industry-leading transportation and midstream provider specializing in transportation, storage, processing and marketing solutions for crude oil and natural gas liquids (NGLs). We own an extensive network of pipeline transportation, terminalling, storage and gathering assets in key crude oil and NGL producing basins and transportation corridors and at major market hubs in the United States and Canada. On average, Plains handles more than 6 million barrels per day of crude oil and NGL in its Transportation segment. The company is headquartered in Houston, Texas.We are looking for highly-motivated individuals who enjoy working as part of a team in a dynamic and entrepreneurial work environment.Position SummaryAs a Mainframe Applications Specialist at Plains All American, you will assist in developing, testing, and maintaining legacy software applications to align with evolving business objectives. The position requires a keen analytical mind and a creative approach to translating business requirements into robust capabilities to maximize customer value, minimize business impact, and deliver reliable technical solutions. Your responsibilities will encompass the software development lifecycle, from initial definition and design, through coding, testing, documentation, and deployment. This role reports directly to the Manager Mainframe Delivery and offers a dynamic environment for innovation and professional growth.The selected candidate will be eligible for company benefits including Medical, Dental, Vision, Paid Time Off (PTO), and Free Parking. Essential Job FunctionsCollaborate with senior developers, technical advisors, and architects to enhance software programs and applications.Assist network administrators and other subject matter experts in resolving application systems issues.Analyze current business systems and processes to identify opportunities for improvement.Partner with internal business stakeholders and departments to define and document application requirements.Contribute to the creation of project plans, including scoping, scheduling and implementation strategies.Conduct research to identify and fulfill the requirements of program users across the organization.Communicate effectively with vendor software support personnel, ensuring resolution of issues with third-party applications.Consistently write, translate, and code software programs and applications, ensuring adherence to business requirements.Participate in software performance tests, targeting both new and existing programs to correct errors.Provide clear, concise verbal and written updates on project status to relevant stakeholders.Participate in development of comprehensive user manuals and guidelines to support end users and ensure a seamless transition to new or modified programs.Assist in delivering training sessions for end users on new or updated software applications.Participate in major initiative projects and sustainment activities.Recommend and implement software improvements and upgrades, ensuring platforms remain current and effective.Maintain on-call availability to provide timely support for critical application systems as needed.Be willing to commit additional hours as needed to meet project milestones and deadlines.Follows Agile development principles and carry out daily run and maintain tasks.Knowledge & SkillsBasic understanding of programming technologies, with a minimum of 2 - 5 years of hands-on experience in mainframe z/OS, MVS JCL, TSO/ISPF, and COBOL II.Familiarity with at least one of the following technologies: PL/1, EasyTrieve Plus, CICS, IMS, DB2.Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively with both technical and non-technical staff.Flexibility and adaptability in learning and mastering emerging technologies and methodologies.Strong written, oral, and interpersonal abilities, supporting effective collaboration and documentation.Ability to conduct research into software-related issues.Self-motivated and able to work independently with minimal supervision.Attention to detail, ensuring accuracy and precision in all tasks.Analytical and problem-solving skills, adept at navigating technical challenges.Demonstrated ability to efficiently prioritize and execute tasks in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.Experience working both independently and within a team-oriented, collaborative setting.Education & ExperienceBachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, Software Engineering, or a related field is preferred. Equivalent combinations of education and work experience will be considered.Minimum of 2 - 5 years’ experience in applications programming, with a focus on mainframe environments.Mainframe programming background is preferred.Proficient in the use of Microsoft Office suite.Familiarity with source control software is a plus.Knowledge of any of the following is a plus: Transact SQL, , C#, HTML, XML, IIS, Microsoft Azure, Dev Ops.Experience collaborating with third-party software vendors is an asset.Cleared criminal history (background) and satisfactory reference checksCompliance with the Company’s drug and alcohol policy including pre-employment D&A testing.#PlainsAt Plains, our employees are our most valuable asset. Hard work is rewarded with competitive compensation and a top-tier benefits program designed to keep our employees safe, healthy and happy. We work hard to deliver the best results to our stakeholders and we also respect our employees need for personal and family time, which is reflected in our benefits program.Salary details estimated by job boards such as Indeed, Glassdoor, and LinkedIn do not represent Plains’ compensation structure. We thank all candidates for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted. By submitting your resume, you consent to the collection, use and necessary disclosure of the personal information provided during the application and selection process. Learn more.
Created: 2025-09-18