ARK Strategies

Design, develop, maintain, and optimize batch and online applications using Software AG Natural and JCL in mainframe environments. | 5+ years of experience with Software AG Natural, JCL, Adabas, and mainframe application development, plus strong troubleshooting and communication skills. | Job Summary We are seeking an experienced Natural Application Developer to join our team supporting mission-critical enterprise systems built on Software AG’s Adabas/Natural technology stack. The ideal candidate will have strong expertise in Natural programming, NaturalONE IDE, and Natural for Ajax, combined with JCL (Job Control Language) skills and the ability to design, develop, maintain, and optimize both batch and online applications. This role involves working closely with business and technical teams to ensure reliable operations, performance, and enhancements of existing legacy and modernized systems. Key Responsibilities • Design, develop, test, and maintain applications using Software AG Natural on mainframe and distributed environments. • Develop online applications leveraging NaturalONE IDE and Natural for Ajax for modern web-based user interfaces. • Write, schedule, and monitor batch jobs using JCL and related utilities. • Perform code analysis, debugging, and performance tuning for Natural and Adabas programs. • Collaborate with business analysts, DBAs, and operations teams to deliver high-quality technical solutions. • Support production environments, troubleshoot issues, and provide on-call assistance for critical jobs. • Participate in code reviews, unit testing, and system integration testing. • Contribute to documentation, standards, and best practices for application development and modernization. Required Qualifications • 5+ years of hands-on experience with Software AG Natural programming language. • Strong experience with Job Control Language (JCL) and batch job scheduling. • Proficiency in developing and maintaining online and batch applications in mainframe environments. • Working knowledge of Adabas database concepts, file structures, and utilities. • Experience with application troubleshooting, debugging, and performance optimization. • Familiarity with version control, change management, and SDLC processes. • Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills. Preferred Qualifications • Hands-on experience with NaturalONE IDE (Eclipse-based development environment). • Experience with Natural for Ajax for building rich, web-based front-end applications. • Familiarity with Adabas DBA tasks, utilities (ADAORD, ADASAV, ADABCK, etc.), and performance tuning. • Exposure to API integration, modernization projects, or migration from Natural/Adabas to other platforms. • Experience working in government, financial services, or large-scale public-sector environments. Education • Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, or related field (or equivalent experience).