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Fundamental System Skills in Z/OS

The IBM Fundamental System Skills in z/OS course equips IT professionals with essential hands-on expertise to operate effectively in a z/OS environment, solving the critical onboarding challenge for mainframe roles. Designed for system programmers, operators, and developers, it delivers practical skills in ISPF, TSO/E, JCL, and UNIX System Services—tools used daily by over 80% of Fortune 500 enterprises relying on IBM Z systems.

This course prepares learners for IBM’s official z/OS certification path, enhancing eligibility for high-demand roles like mainframe analyst and systems programmer. Koenig Solutions provides official vendor-authorized courseware and 30-day lab access, ensuring mastery. Graduates gain the confidence to manage live z/OS environments and accelerate their careers in enterprise computing.

40 Hours (5 Days)
Live Online / Classroom
0+ professionals trained

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Course Overview

The IBM course Fundamental System Skills in Z/OS (ES10G) is designed to equip IT professionals with essential hands-on expertise for working in a z/OS environment, serving as a foundational step toward the IBM Z Systems Practitioner certification. This course is ideal for system administrators, mainframe developers, and operations analysts who need practical proficiency in core z/OS tools and workflows. With 83% of enterprise organizations considering mainframes critical to their business strategy and a growing talent shortage driving demand, mastering these skills positions learners at the forefront of a high-value, low-supply technology domain. The curriculum assumes prior theoretical knowledge of z/OS, such as that gained from An Introduction to the z/OS Environment (ES05G), and builds real-world operational competence.

Students engage directly with key IBM z/OS technologies including ISPF/PDF dialogs, TSO/E commands, JCL, UNIX System Services shell, SDSF, and BookManager through immersive, instructor-led labs. Using a live z/OS lab environment, participants perform critical tasks such as logging into TSO, allocating and managing data sets, editing members using the ISPF Editor, submitting batch jobs via tailored JCL, and reviewing output through SDSF. A core hands-on scenario involves configuring and executing REXX execs and TSO CLISTs while navigating security considerations for MVS data sets and HFS files, simulating real operational workflows used in enterprise banking and insurance systems. These practical exercises ensure students build confidence in daily mainframe operations.

Completing Fundamental System Skills in Z/OS prepares candidates for advanced IBM certifications and validates competencies recognized across Fortune 500 enterprises reliant on mainframe infrastructure. Professionals with IBM z/OS skills command a median salary of $106,000, with specialized roles often exceeding $130,000 due to acute talent shortages. Koenig Solutions enhances this learning path with Guaranteed-to-Run scheduling and access to official IBM courseware, ensuring structured, instructor-supported progression. Graduates emerge ready to contribute immediately in roles maintaining mission-critical systems, setting the foundation for long-term careers in mainframe modernization, hybrid cloud integration, and enterprise-scale IT operations.

What You'll Learn

Navigate the IBM z/OS environment using ISPF/PDF panels
Execute TSO/E commands to perform data set management operations
Configure RACF profiles to secure MVS and HFS resources
Construct and submit JCL for batch workload processing
Analyze job output and system status using SDSF
Manipulate files and directories within z/OS UNIX System Services

Prerequisites

Recommended knowledge before taking this course
  • Practical IT experience in mainframe environments
  • A solid understanding of z/OS architecture and core mainframe concepts
  • Familiarity with TSO (Time Sharing Option) and ISPF/PDF interfaces for efficient mainframe management
  • Basic skills in data set management using ISPF Editor and line commands
  • Introductory knowledge of the z/OS environment (ES05G) or equivalent on-the-job training in IBM mainframe systems
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Certification Exam

Everything you need to know about the Fundamental System Skills in Z/OS certification exam

Exam Details
Exam Name
Format
Multiple choice, labs & case studies
Questions
Duration
Passing Score
Validity
Retake Policy
Not applicable
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Course Curriculum

Structured learning with hands-on labs and real-world scenarios

1
Day 1– Mastering Fundamental System Skills in Z/OS and ISPF
IBM z/Architecture and z/OS overview Essential ISPF/PDF interface training TSO login and ISPF startup Efficient ISPF dialog navigation Core ISPF primary command syntax Data set allocation techniques Hands-on system familiarization lab Basic data set editing workflows
2
Day 2– Advanced ISPF and TSO/E Operations
ISPF editor line command mastery Copy, move, and rename data sets Data set deletion and listing Data set sorting and merging Executing TSO/E command sets Practical TSO/E familiarization exercises Data set management and lists Advanced line command data editing
3
Day 3– JCL and Job Processing Essentials
JES and JCL architecture basics Professional JCL statement coding Batch job submission procedures Comprehensive JCL utilities overview Modifying production JCL scripts Executing complex batch jobs Reviewing output via SDSF Applied JCL exercises lab
4
Day 4– Security and RACF Administration
z/OS security architecture fundamentals IBM RACF framework overview Managing RACF security profiles MVS data set security protocols HFS file system security controls System security configuration tasks Advanced RACF command execution Practical security considerations lab
5
Day 5– UNIX System Services Integration
UNIX system services architecture Invoking native UNIX processes ISHELL interface navigation skills Hierarchical file system (HFS) management Manipulating HFS directory structures UNIX program support capabilities UNIX and RACF security integration Advanced ISHELL lab exercise

What's Included in Your Training

Every enrollment comes packed with resources to maximise your learning and exam success

Career Outcomes

78%

of Fundamental System Skills in Z/OS certified professionals report career advancement within 6 months

Salary Impact

+15%

Average salary increase reported after obtaining the Fundamental System Skills in Z/OS certification

Typical Salary Range (Global)
Entry$90,000–$115,000
Mid$115,000–$145,000
Senior$145,000–$180,000

*Source: Glassdoor / LinkedIn 2025

Job Roles

6
  • z/OS System Programmer
  • Mainframe Operator
  • z/OS Systems Administrator
  • Mainframe Systems Engineer
  • IBM Z Systems Specialist
  • Mainframe Technical Support Analyst

Companies Hiring

5,000+
IBM Bank of America JPMorgan Chase Accenture Deloitte TCS Wells Fargo American Express Capgemini

and 5,000+ organizations worldwide seeking Fundamental System Skills in Z/OS certified professionals

Real Transformations

Course Student Reviews

Real results from IT professionals who trained with Koenig — rated 4.9/5 from 18,400+ verified reviews.

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    Carlos R.

    Carlos R.

    Engineering Manager

    AZ-400 Team Training ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “Passed AZ-104 on first attempt. The MCT knew the exact exam patterns and the labs were exactly what Microsoft tests. Worth every penny.”

    Rahul M.

    Rahul M.

    Azure Administrator

    AZ-104 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “I trained 15 of my team members for SC-200. Koenig's on-site delivery was seamless and all 15 passed within 3 months.”

    Sarah K.

    Sarah K.

    CISO, Financial Services

    Enterprise Client ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “The 1-on-1 format was a game changer. My trainer adjusted the pace to my schedule and I cleared PL-300 while working full-time.”

    Ahmed R.

    Ahmed R.

    Business Intelligence Lead

    PL-300 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “From AZ-900 to AZ-305 in 6 months. Koenig's structured roadmap and MCT mentoring made the expert level achievable.”

    Priya S.

    Priya S.

    Cloud Solutions Architect

    AZ-305 Expert ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “As an L&D head I've used 5 training vendors. Koenig's MCT quality, MOC materials, and ESI compliance is in a different league.”

    James T.

    James T.

    Head of L&D, UK Enterprise

    100+ Learners Trained ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “SC-900 and SC-300 back to back — both cleared first try. The security curriculum at Koenig is incredibly thorough and up to date.”

    Aisha N.

    Aisha N.

    Security Analyst

    SC-300 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “AI-102 was daunting but the trainer broke it down perfectly. Real Azure OpenAI labs made the difference. Highly recommend.”

    David L.

    David L.

    AI Engineer

    AI-102 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “DP-600 Fabric certification done in 3 weeks of part-time study. The customised schedule around my timezone was a lifesaver.”

    Mei W.

    Mei W.

    Data Platform Engineer

    DP-600 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “Our whole DevOps team got AZ-400 certified through Koenig's corporate training. Smooth logistics and top-tier MCTs throughout.”

    Carlos R.

    Carlos R.

    Engineering Manager

    AZ-400 Team Training ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “Passed AZ-104 on first attempt. The MCT knew the exact exam patterns and the labs were exactly what Microsoft tests. Worth every penny.”

    Rahul M.

    Rahul M.

    Azure Administrator

    AZ-104 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “I trained 15 of my team members for SC-200. Koenig's on-site delivery was seamless and all 15 passed within 3 months.”

    Sarah K.

    Sarah K.

    CISO, Financial Services

    Enterprise Client ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “The 1-on-1 format was a game changer. My trainer adjusted the pace to my schedule and I cleared PL-300 while working full-time.”

    Ahmed R.

    Ahmed R.

    Business Intelligence Lead

    PL-300 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “Passed AZ-104 on first attempt. The MCT knew the exact exam patterns and the labs were exactly what Microsoft tests. Worth every penny.”

    Rahul M.

    Rahul M.

    Azure Administrator

    AZ-104 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “I trained 15 of my team members for SC-200. Koenig's on-site delivery was seamless and all 15 passed within 3 months.”

    Sarah K.

    Sarah K.

    CISO, Financial Services

    Enterprise Client ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “The 1-on-1 format was a game changer. My trainer adjusted the pace to my schedule and I cleared PL-300 while working full-time.”

    Ahmed R.

    Ahmed R.

    Business Intelligence Lead

    PL-300 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “From AZ-900 to AZ-305 in 6 months. Koenig's structured roadmap and MCT mentoring made the expert level achievable.”

    Priya S.

    Priya S.

    Cloud Solutions Architect

    AZ-305 Expert ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “As an L&D head I've used 5 training vendors. Koenig's MCT quality, MOC materials, and ESI compliance is in a different league.”

    James T.

    James T.

    Head of L&D, UK Enterprise

    100+ Learners Trained ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “SC-900 and SC-300 back to back — both cleared first try. The security curriculum at Koenig is incredibly thorough and up to date.”

    Aisha N.

    Aisha N.

    Security Analyst

    SC-300 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “From AZ-900 to AZ-305 in 6 months. Koenig's structured roadmap and MCT mentoring made the expert level achievable.”

    Priya S.

    Priya S.

    Cloud Solutions Architect

    AZ-305 Expert ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “As an L&D head I've used 5 training vendors. Koenig's MCT quality, MOC materials, and ESI compliance is in a different league.”

    James T.

    James T.

    Head of L&D, UK Enterprise

    100+ Learners Trained ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “SC-900 and SC-300 back to back — both cleared first try. The security curriculum at Koenig is incredibly thorough and up to date.”

    Aisha N.

    Aisha N.

    Security Analyst

    SC-300 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “AI-102 was daunting but the trainer broke it down perfectly. Real Azure OpenAI labs made the difference. Highly recommend.”

    David L.

    David L.

    AI Engineer

    AI-102 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “DP-600 Fabric certification done in 3 weeks of part-time study. The customised schedule around my timezone was a lifesaver.”

    Mei W.

    Mei W.

    Data Platform Engineer

    DP-600 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “Our whole DevOps team got AZ-400 certified through Koenig's corporate training. Smooth logistics and top-tier MCTs throughout.”

    Carlos R.

    Carlos R.

    Engineering Manager

    AZ-400 Team Training ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “AI-102 was daunting but the trainer broke it down perfectly. Real Azure OpenAI labs made the difference. Highly recommend.”

    David L.

    David L.

    AI Engineer

    AI-102 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “DP-600 Fabric certification done in 3 weeks of part-time study. The customised schedule around my timezone was a lifesaver.”

    Mei W.

    Mei W.

    Data Platform Engineer

    DP-600 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “Our whole DevOps team got AZ-400 certified through Koenig's corporate training. Smooth logistics and top-tier MCTs throughout.”

    Carlos R.

    Carlos R.

    Engineering Manager

    AZ-400 Team Training ✓ Verified

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about the Fundamental System Skills in Z/OS training course

Is the certification exam included in the Fundamental System Skills in Z/OS course, and what is the exam fee if separate?
The Fundamental System Skills in Z/OS (ES10G) course by IBM is a training badge program rather than a formal certification. Completion of this instructor-led training awards an official IBM digital badge. There is no separate certification exam, no associated testing fee, and no hidden costs for this credential.
What training formats are available for Fundamental System Skills in Z/OS, and is Guaranteed-to-Run scheduling offered?
Koenig Solutions delivers Fundamental System Skills in Z/OS via live online, classroom, 1-on-1, and self-paced Flexi formats. All sessions feature Guaranteed-to-Run scheduling. This policy ensures every course runs as planned regardless of enrollment numbers, allowing students to book their training with total confidence and avoid the frustration of last-minute cancellations.
How long is lab access provided, and what environment is used for Fundamental System Skills in Z/OS exercises?
Lab access for Fundamental System Skills in Z/OS lasts for the full 5-day course duration via cloud-hosted IBM Z environments. These labs utilize actual IBM Z servers instead of simulations. Students gain practical, production-equivalent experience in TSO/E, ISPF, JCL, and UNIX System Services, ensuring they are ready for real-world mainframe operations.
What is Koenig's rescheduling and cancellation policy for the Fundamental System Skills in Z/OS course?
Koenig permits free rescheduling for Fundamental System Skills in Z/OS if requested at least 10 days before the start date. Changes made within 10 days incur a 50% fee. Cancellations requested over 10 days in advance qualify for a full refund. All modification requests must be submitted in writing to be processed.
What is the format, number of questions, passing score, and time limit for the Fundamental System Skills in Z/OS assessment?
Fundamental System Skills in Z/OS concludes with an instructor-led evaluation rather than a proctored exam. Success is based on active participation and performance during hands-on lab exercises. IBM does not define a numerical passing score, time limit, or multiple-choice test for this specific training badge, focusing instead on practical mastery.
How long is the Fundamental System Skills in Z/OS certification valid, and what is the renewal process and cost?
The Fundamental System Skills in Z/OS credential is a digital badge with lifelong validity. Issued by IBM upon course completion, it never expires. There are no renewal requirements, mandatory continuing education credits, PDUs, or re-examination costs, serving as a permanent, verifiable recognition of your foundational z/OS system knowledge.
What post-training support does Koenig provide after completing the Fundamental System Skills in Z/OS course?
Koenig offers 30 days of post-training support for Fundamental System Skills in Z/OS, including recorded session access, expert mentor guidance, and community forum participation. Our Happiness Guarantee also includes a free course retake if needed, ensuring you achieve full mastery of essential z/OS fundamentals for your career.
What are the prerequisites or prior experience needed for the Fundamental System Skills in Z/OS course?
Learners should possess a theoretical background in z/OS, typically gained from 'An Introduction to the z/OS Environment' (ES05G), plus general IT experience. No prior mainframe coding or system programming is required. This course is ideal for new hires or professionals transitioning into critical mainframe roles like system administrator.
What job roles and salary ranges can I expect after completing the Fundamental System Skills in Z/OS course?
Graduates often secure roles as mainframe developers, system programmers, or administrators, with entry-level salaries between $90,000 and $115,000. Industry data shows mainframe professionals earn a 20–30% salary premium due to the acute talent shortage in critical IT sectors, making this a high-value career investment.
How does instructor-led training for Fundamental System Skills in Z/OS compare to self-study options?
Instructor-led training for Fundamental System Skills in Z/OS offers structured learning with real-time expert feedback and hands-on labs on live IBM Z systems. Unlike self-study, Koenig’s formats improve retention and skill application, providing a 30% faster path to professional proficiency compared to independent study using only static technical documentation.
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