IBM Middleware Upgrade & Modernization Lead (Remote)

Lead the transformation and uplift of existing IBM middleware environments to current, fully supported versions, ensuring high availability, strong security posture, and minimal impact to business operations.

Core Responsibilities

• Develop the overall upgrade strategy along with a detailed execution roadmap.
• Drive and perform hands-on technical upgrade activities, not limited to oversight or coordination.
• Oversee migrations from WAS ND 8.5.5 to 9.0.5.x, including transitions to Liberty-based deployments.
• Assess technical risks, identify dependencies, and define rollback and recovery approaches.
• Collaborate closely with infrastructure, database, security teams, and external vendors.
• Validate and ensure system performance, security, and stability after upgrades.

Required Skills & Experience

• 10+ years working with IBM middleware technologies.
• Demonstrated leadership in executing complex enterprise-scale version upgrades.
• Strong hands-on proficiency across IBM Portal/DX, BAW, ODM, and related components.
• Deep technical capability in Linux environments, clustering, SSL configuration, and JVM optimization.
• Ability to clearly articulate technical risks, impacts, and mitigation plans to senior stakeholders.

Indicators of Success

• Completion of platform upgrades without unplanned service interruptions.
• Delivery of comprehensive technical documentation and seamless transition to support teams.
• Systems operating in a stable, secure, and fully vendor-supported state post-modernization.