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Mainframe Modernization Director Jobs in Michigan

Solution Architect

Dearborn, MI

$58 - $76.25/hr

Direct onshore and offshore teams to perform analysis, remediation, and application migration ... Experience with data center migration or application modernization is preferred * Experience with ...

Mainframe Modernization Director information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Mainframe Modernization Director, and why are they important?

A Mainframe Modernization Director needs deep expertise in legacy mainframe systems, cloud migration strategies, and enterprise IT architecture, often supported by a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with tools like COBOL, IBM z/OS, AWS/Azure cloud platforms, and modernization frameworks, along with certifications such as AWS Certified Solutions Architect or TOGAF, is typically required. Strong leadership, project management, and stakeholder communication skills are vital for coordinating cross-functional teams and driving change. These abilities ensure smooth transitions from legacy to modern systems, minimizing risk and maximizing business value.

What are some common challenges faced during mainframe modernization projects, and how does a Mainframe Modernization Director help address them?

Mainframe modernization projects often involve complex challenges such as integrating legacy systems with modern technologies, ensuring data integrity during migrations, and managing resistance to change among stakeholders. As a Mainframe Modernization Director, you play a crucial role in developing clear modernization roadmaps, coordinating cross-functional teams, and proactively addressing risks to minimize disruptions. Your leadership ensures that technical solutions align with business goals while fostering collaboration between IT, business units, and external partners for a successful transformation.

What does a Mainframe Modernization Director do?

A Mainframe Modernization Director oversees the process of upgrading and transforming legacy mainframe systems to modern platforms, technologies, and architectures. Their responsibilities include developing modernization strategies, managing project teams, coordinating with stakeholders, and ensuring the migration process aligns with business goals. They also assess risks, select appropriate tools, and ensure minimal disruption to ongoing operations. By doing so, they help organizations improve efficiency, reduce costs, and leverage new digital capabilities.

What is the difference between Mainframe Modernization Director vs Mainframe Systems Analyst?

AspectMainframe Modernization DirectorMainframe Systems Analyst
Primary FocusOversees mainframe modernization projects, strategy, and team managementAnalyzes and maintains existing mainframe systems, supports system operations
Required SkillsProject management, leadership, modernization tools, strategic planningSystem analysis, programming, troubleshooting, mainframe technologies
Work EnvironmentLeadership roles, project planning, cross-team collaborationTechnical support, system analysis, coding, testing
CertificationsIT project management, mainframe modernization certificationsMainframe programming and analysis certifications

The Mainframe Modernization Director focuses on leading and strategizing modernization initiatives, while the Mainframe Systems Analyst concentrates on analyzing and maintaining existing mainframe systems. Both roles require mainframe knowledge but differ in scope, responsibilities, and leadership involvement.

What are the most commonly searched types of Mainframe Modernization jobs in Michigan? The most popular types of Mainframe Modernization jobs in Michigan are:
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What cities in Michigan are hiring for Mainframe Modernization Director jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Mainframe Modernization Director job openings:

DIR OF TECHNOLOGY & INNOVATION

City of Dearborn Career Opportunities

Dearborn, MI • Hybrid

$155K/yr

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

SALARY:      $155,000

DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF WORK:

This is specialized administrative work in the overall management of the City's information systems in a complex data and telecommunications environment, including computer services; voice, data, and video signals; and public safety support services.  Based on administrative priorities, the appointee is responsible for strategic planning to ensure appropriate use of Information Technology in maintaining or improving the quality, efficiency and cost effectiveness of public services. 

The appointee interacts with fellow employees, visitors, and citizens of the City of Dearborn and demonstrates the highest standards of internal and external customer service.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Essential Job Functions (Functions essential to attaining job objectives):

  • Strategic Leadership: Develops and defines policies, objectives, and roadmaps for the continuous advancement of IT, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), and smart city initiatives (e.g., the Dearborn Innovation Hub and AI pilot programs).

  • System Modernization: Oversees the decommissioning of legacy mainframe architectures and leads the migration and integration of modern, cloud-based SaaS platforms (such as BS&A ERP and Trimble Unity Enterprise Asset Management).

  • Cybersecurity & Compliance: Controls overall enterprise security. Partners with federal and state agencies (e.g., CISA, MSP/EMHSD) to manage vulnerability scanning, web application security, and grant-funded cybersecurity hardening projects (SLCGP).

  • Disaster Recovery: Oversees database administration and ensures highly resilient data protection and advanced backup solutions (e.g., Google Cloud Platform environments) specifically tailored for uninterrupted public safety and 911 dispatch operations.

  • Vendor & Grant Management: Monitors contracts, negotiates service level agreements (SLAs), and oversees vendors engaged in IT-related projects. Actively pursues, secures, and manages federal and state technology grants.

  • Digital Accessibility & Web: Ensures public-facing digital properties (like dearborn.gov) meet modern accessibility standards (WCAG 2.1 AA) and deploys effective telecom strategies (e.g., IVR Auto-Attendants) to protect staff workflows and improve resident communication.

  • Infrastructure Management: Plans and coordinates the maintenance, networking, and secure data transfer across multiple municipal facilities and hybrid cloud environments (e.g., Google Workspace administration).

  • Demonstrates regular and predictable attendance.

Marginal Job Functions (Peripheral or incidental to primary job functions):

  • Performs related work as required.  

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

  • Considerable knowledge of modern cloud-based Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) and municipal software environments, including system integration via APIs, SaaS architecture, and secure data migration from legacy systems.

  • Extensive knowledge of cybersecurity frameworks (NIST, CISA), network vulnerability assessments, and managing hybrid cloud/on-premise disaster recovery solutions for critical municipal operations.

  • Considerable knowledge of modern unified communications, Google Workspace enterprise administration, and advanced threat filtering.

  • Thorough knowledge of appropriate standards and evaluation criteria for the selection, procurement, and management of IT consultants, contractors, and third-party software vendors.

  • Working knowledge of core municipal government functions (Finance, Assessing, Public Works, Public Safety).

EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING:

A Bachelor's degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, Public Administration, or a related field of study, plus considerable relevant executive management experience in an IT environment. Experience must include leading large-scale system migrations, enterprise cloud adoption, cybersecurity management, development of technology budgets, and staff development.

A graduate degree is preferred and may substitute for some experience. Professional certifications (e.g., CISSP, PMP, ITIL) and continuing education in executive management, cybersecurity, and public sector technology are highly desirable.

NECESSARY SPECIAL QUALIFICATIONS:

A valid driver license and a good driving record.