Connect Direct Specialist - 1056

SUMMARY:
CONNECT DIRECT SPECIALIST - ADVANCED
Location: Gauteng 
Contract Term: 01 April 2025 - 31 December 2027

POSITION INFO:
ESSENTIAL SKILLS REQUIREMENTS:

• Understanding of IBM Connect: Direct: Familiarity with the architecture, components, and functionalities of IBM connect: Direct, including its role in file transfer and data integration
• File Transfer Protocols: Knowledge of various file transfer protocols (e.g., FTP, SFTP, FTPS) and how they relate to Connect: Direct operations
• Mainframe Knowledge: Experience with mainframe environments, particularly z/OS, as Connect: Direct is often used in mainframe setting
• Scripting and Automation: Proficiency in scripting languages (like JCL, REXX, or shell scripting) to automate file transfer processes and manage jobs
• Security Practices: Understanding of security protocols and practices, including encryption and user authentication, to ensure secure file transfers
• Troubleshooting Skills: Ability to diagnose and resolve issues related to file transfers, connectivity, and system performance
• Performance Tuning: Knowledge of performance tuning techniques to optimize file transfer processes and system resources
• Any additional responsibilities assigned in the Agile Working Model (AWM) Charter

• Documentation and Reporting: Skills in documenting processes, creating reports, and maintaining logs for compliance and auditing purposes
• Collaboration and Communication: Strong communication skills to work with cross-functional teams and stakeholders, ensuring smooth operations and addressing any concerns
• Project Management: Familiarity with project management methodologies can be beneficial for planning, executing, and monitoring file transfer projects, ensuring they are completed on time and within scope
• Data Integration Knowledge: Understanding data integration concepts and tools can help in effectively managing data flows between different systems and applications, enhancing the overall data management strategy
• Cloud Computing Awareness: Knowledge of cloud computing platforms and services can be advantageous, especially as organizations increasingly adopt hybrid environments. Understanding how Connect: Direct can integrate with cloud services can enhance its utility and flexibility

• Educational Background: A bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field is typically required. Advanced degrees or certifications in relevant areas can be advantageous
• Experience with IBM Connect: Direct: A minimum of 3-5 years of hands-on experience working with IBM Connect: Direct or similar file transfer solutions is essential. This includes experience in configuring, managing, and troubleshooting file transfer processes
• Mainframe and Networking Knowledge: Proficiency in mainframe environments (especially z/OS) and a solid understanding of networking concepts, protocols, and security practices related to file transfers are crucial. Experience with scripting languages (such as JCL or REXX) and familiarity with data integration tools can also be beneficial

• File Transfer Management: Oversee and manage the configuration, scheduling, and execution of file transfers using IBM Connect: Direct, ensuring timely and secure data movement between systems
• System Monitoring and Maintenance: Continuously monitor the performance of Connect: Direct environments, identifying and resolving issues to maintain optimal operation and minimize downtime.
• Security Implementation: Implement and enforce security measures for file transfers, including encryption, user authentication, and access controls, to protect sensitive data
• Troubleshooting and Support: Provide technical support for Connect: Direct-related issues, diagnosing problems, and implementing solutions to ensure smooth operations
• Documentation and Reporting: Maintain comprehensive documentation of configurations, processes, and procedures, as well as generate reports on file transfer activities for compliance and auditing purposes
• Collaboration with Teams: Work closely with cross-functional teams, including application developers, system administrators, and network engineers, to ensure seamless integration and operation of file transfer processes
• Performance Tuning: Analyze and optimize file transfer processes and system performance, implementing best practices to enhance efficiency and reduce transfer times
• Assisting with Migration to MFT: Support the migration of file transfer processes to Managed File Transfer (MFT) solutions, ensuring a smooth transition and integration with existing systems and workflows