Intermediate/Senior Informix -  HP-UX -4GL

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Intermediate/Senior Informix - HP-UX - 4GL Developer

Company: VTekis Consulting LLP

Location: Chicago, Illinois, United States

Job Type: Contract

Category: Software Engineering / IT Operations

Date Posted: April 1, 2026

Experience Level: Intermediate/Senior (5+ years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This is a critical role focused on the modernization and maintenance of a legacy ERP platform, necessitating deep expertise in Informix 4GL and related Unix environments.

• The position involves bridging the gap between legacy systems and modern technologies, specifically through API development and integration projects.

• You will be instrumental in supporting and optimizing a mission-critical ERP system, ensuring its continued functionality and facilitating its integration with contemporary platforms like Salesforce and e-commerce solutions.

• This role demands strong technical acumen in database management, Unix scripting, and integration technologies, coupled with excellent communication and collaboration skills, especially for coordinating with offshore teams.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the job title suggests a specific technical focus (Informix, HP-UX, 4GL), the description clearly indicates a broader role in system modernization and integration, moving beyond pure legacy maintenance. The emphasis on bridging legacy logic with modern requirements, API build-out, and integration with Salesforce/e-commerce platforms positions this role within the realm of IT Operations and Software Engineering, with a strong GTM enablement component if the ERP directly supports sales or customer operations. The contract nature suggests a project-driven focus, likely centered on transformation initiatives.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Legacy System Modernization: Collaborate with cross-functional teams to design and implement solutions that migrate or integrate Informix 4GL logic into modern platforms like Genero BDL, ensuring a smooth transition.

• Informix 4GL Development & Maintenance: Write, optimize, and maintain clean, efficient, and scalable code in Informix 4GL, adhering to best practices and coding standards.

• Unix/Linux Environment Management: Develop and maintain Unix Shell Scripts (Korn, Awk) for system automation, data processing, and operational tasks within HP-UX, AIX, or Linux environments.

• Technical Troubleshooting & Performance Tuning: Diagnose and resolve complex application issues and database performance bottlenecks using Informix utilities such as oncheck and set explain, and general Unix troubleshooting tools.

• API Development & Integration: Lead the design, development, and implementation of API integrations (RESTful/SOAP) to connect the legacy ERP with modern systems like Salesforce and e-commerce platforms.

• Data Integration & Transformation: Work with EDI formats (e.g., 810, 820), XML, and other data exchange mechanisms to ensure seamless data flow between disparate systems.

• Deployment & Testing: Oversee and execute integration, User Acceptance Testing (UAT), and performance testing activities to ensure high-quality, reliable deployments with minimal disruption to business operations.

• Incident & Work Order Management: Manage and resolve escalated incidents and work orders from the Service Desk, ensuring adherence to Service Level Agreements (SLAs).

• Technical Documentation: Create and maintain comprehensive technical documentation for systems, processes, code, and integrations.

• Offshore Team Coordination: Provide daily coordination and technical guidance to a small offshore development team, ensuring alignment and efficient task execution.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of deep legacy system expertise and modern integration skills. The "System Modernization & Design" and "API build-out" responsibilities are key indicators of a transformation-focused project. The emphasis on "mission-critical Legacy ERP platform" implies a high-stakes environment where system stability and efficient operations are paramount.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Experience:

• Minimum of 5 years of hands-on experience with the Informix legacy platform, specifically in Informix 4GL development.

• Proven experience in supporting and maintaining mission-critical ERP systems.

• Demonstrated experience in API development and integration (RESTful/SOAP).

• Solid experience working within Unix/Linux environments (HP-UX, AIX, Linux).

• Experience with Unix Shell Scripting (Korn, Awk) is essential.

Required Skills:

• Informix 4GL: Expert-level proficiency in developing, debugging, and maintaining applications.

• SQL: Advanced SQL skills for complex querying, data manipulation, and performance tuning within Informix.

• Unix/Linux: Mastery of Unix-based operating systems and shell scripting for system administration, automation, and development tasks.

• API Integration: Practical experience designing and implementing RESTful and SOAP APIs.

• Technical Troubleshooting: Strong analytical and problem-solving skills to diagnose and resolve complex technical issues.

• Communication: Exceptional verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to clearly articulate technical concepts and guide offshore teams.

Preferred Skills:

• Genero BDL: Experience migrating from or developing with Genero Business Development Language.

• Secondary Languages: Proficiency in Java, Python, or Perl for integration, scripting, or modern application development.

• Other Databases: Familiarity with SQL Server, Oracle, or Snowflake.

• EDI Standards: Understanding of EDI formats such as 810 and 820.

• XML: Experience working with XML data structures.

• Version Control: Hands-on experience with Git, GitHub, or GitLab.

• ERP Supply Chain Concepts: Strong business understanding of Order Creation, Pick-Pack-Ship, Invoicing, and Bill of Materials (BOM).

• Warehouse Management Systems (WMS): Familiarity with WMS and manufacturing workflows.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for 5+ years specifically on the Informix legacy platform, coupled with the need for API and modern integration skills, signifies a role that values deep domain expertise in legacy systems while driving towards modern IT architecture. The mention of Genero BDL as a migration target is a key technical indicator.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Legacy System Expertise Showcase: Include case studies or project examples demonstrating your experience with Informix 4GL development, maintenance, and optimization, highlighting complex problem-solving scenarios.

• API Integration Projects: Provide detailed examples of API integrations you have designed and implemented, outlining the technologies used, challenges overcome, and business impact achieved (e.g., connecting ERP to e-commerce).

• Unix Scripting Examples: Showcase examples of Unix Shell Scripts (Korn, Awk) you have developed for automation, data processing, or system management, explaining their purpose and efficiency gains.

• System Modernization Initiatives: If applicable, present projects where you have been involved in modernizing legacy systems, including migration strategies or co-existence architectures.

• Performance Tuning & Troubleshooting: Include examples of how you have diagnosed and resolved critical application or database performance issues, detailing the methodology and tools used (e.g., oncheck, set explain).

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Demonstrate your ability to document and optimize existing workflows, particularly within supply chain or ERP contexts, identifying areas for improvement through code or system changes.

• Implementation & Automation: Showcase processes where you have implemented new features, automated tasks, or integrated systems, providing evidence of successful deployment and operational efficiency.

• Measurement & Analysis: Present how you have measured the impact of your work, using metrics related to system performance, issue resolution times, or integration success rates.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a role focused on modernization and integration of a legacy system, a portfolio demonstrating practical application of Informix 4GL, Unix scripting, API development, and system troubleshooting is crucial. The ability to articulate the "why" and "how" behind your technical contributions, especially in a project-driven contract role, will be highly valued.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on the experience level (Intermediate/Senior, 5+ years), the location (Chicago, IL), and the contract nature of the role, a competitive hourly rate for a W2 or 1099 contractor would typically range from $60 to $90 per hour. For a full-time equivalent, this translates to an annual salary range of approximately $125,000 to $187,200.

Benefits:

• As this is a contract position through VTekis Consulting LLP, standard employee benefits (health insurance, paid time off, retirement plans) are typically not provided directly by the client company.

• Contractors may have options for health insurance and other benefits through VTekis Consulting LLP or may need to secure their own.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time work schedule of approximately 40 hours per week.

• The role is on-site in Chicago, IL, requiring consistent presence during core business hours.

• Given the nature of supporting a mission-critical system and coordinating with offshore teams, some flexibility may be required for urgent issues or critical deployments, potentially including occasional off-hours work.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on industry benchmarks for contract IT roles in major metropolitan areas like Chicago, for specialized skills in legacy systems and modern integration. It's important for candidates to clarify benefit options and specific pay structures (W2 vs. 1099) with VTekis Consulting LLP.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Staff Augmentation, Recruitment Process Outsourcing, Contract Hiring, Direct Hire, Outsourced Solutions. VTekis Consulting LLP operates within the IT staffing and consulting services sector.

Company Size: VTekis Consulting LLP's exact size is not specified, but it operates as a consulting firm, implying a structure that manages a pool of consultants and client engagements. The project team itself is described as "small, lean," consisting of one onsite resource and three offshore members.

Founded: Company founding date is not provided.

Team Structure:

• Core Project Team: A small, agile team comprising one on-site resource (this role) and three offshore members. This necessitates strong leadership and coordination from the on-site candidate.

• Reporting: The on-site resource will likely report to a project manager or a senior IT leader within VTekis Consulting LLP or the client organization.

• Cross-functional Collaboration: Expect collaboration with various internal stakeholders (e.g., Service Desk, other IT teams) and potentially external clients (Sales, Operations, E-commerce teams) to understand requirements and facilitate integrations.

Methodology:

• Agile/Lean Principles: The "small, lean team" structure and focus on iterative development and integration suggest an agile or lean methodology is likely employed.

• Data-Driven Operations: The emphasis on system modernization, performance tuning, and integration with modern platforms implies a data-driven approach to decision-making and problem-solving.

• Process Optimization: A core focus will be on improving the efficiency and effectiveness of the legacy ERP platform and its integrations.

Company Website: VTekis Consulting LLP's website is not directly provided in the input, but the domain vtekis.com is inferred.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's primary business is providing IT talent and solutions. This means the candidate will be a representative of VTekis Consulting LLP on client projects. The "perfect fit" philosophy suggests a focus on quality placements and client satisfaction. The project team's composition highlights the importance of remote team management skills.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned at an Intermediate to Senior level, requiring significant experience (5+ years) in specific legacy technologies and a foundational understanding of modern integration practices. It's a hands-on technical role with an emphasis on project execution and problem-solving.

Reporting Structure: The on-site resource will likely report to a Project Manager or a Director of IT/Engineering within the client organization or VTekis Consulting LLP. Daily coordination with the offshore team is a key aspect of the role's dynamics.

Operations Impact: This role has a direct impact on the operational efficiency and future capabilities of a mission-critical ERP platform. By modernizing and integrating this system, the candidate will enable better data flow, improved business processes (supply chain, invoicing), and enhanced connectivity with sales and e-commerce channels, ultimately contributing to the company's revenue streams and customer satisfaction.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in Informix 4GL, Genero BDL, and Unix, becoming a go-to subject matter expert for legacy system modernization.

• Modern Integration Skills: Gain practical experience in API development, integration patterns, and working with cloud-based platforms (Salesforce, e-commerce).

• Project Leadership: Develop leadership skills by coordinating and guiding offshore teams, potentially leading smaller integration sub-projects.

• Cross-Functional Exposure: Broaden understanding of Supply Chain, WMS, and ERP business processes by working closely with various operational departments.

• Contract Extension/Future Opportunities: Successful performance in this contract role can lead to extensions or future contract/permanent opportunities with VTekis Consulting LLP or its clients.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth path here is less about climbing a traditional corporate ladder and more about deepening specialized technical skills and gaining exposure to transformation projects. For a contract role, demonstrating value and adaptability is key to securing future engagements.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is explicitly stated as "On-site" in Chicago, IL. This suggests a traditional office environment where the candidate will work alongside other IT professionals and potentially business stakeholders.

Office Location(s): Chicago, Illinois, United States. Specific office address is not provided but implied to be within the Chicago metropolitan area.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The on-site presence is crucial for direct collaboration with local stakeholders and potentially other team members. The candidate will be the primary local point of contact for the project.

• Tools and Technology: Access to necessary development tools, Informix database environments, Unix systems, and integration platforms will be provided. The candidate will be expected to leverage these tools effectively.

• Team Interaction: While coordinating with an offshore team, the on-site role implies a need for active participation in local team meetings, discussions, and problem-solving sessions.

Work Schedule:

• Typically 40 hours per week, during standard business hours in the Chicago time zone (America/Chicago).

• The contract nature might offer some flexibility, but on-site presence during core business hours is expected for team coordination and immediate issue resolution.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement is significant for a role involving coordination with offshore teams. It suggests a need for strong interpersonal skills and the ability to act as a bridge between local and remote resources, facilitating clear communication and effective project execution.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening (VTekis Consulting LLP): A recruiter or hiring manager from VTekis Consulting LLP will likely conduct an initial phone screen to assess basic qualifications, experience with

Informix 4GL, and understanding of the contract role's scope.

• Technical Interview(s): Expect one or more technical interviews with IT leadership or senior engineers from the client organization. These interviews will delve into:

  • Informix 4GL & SQL: Detailed questions on syntax, best practices, troubleshooting techniques, and performance tuning.
  • Unix/Linux: Scenarios involving shell scripting, system administration tasks, and debugging in a Unix environment.
  • API Integration: Discussion of API design principles, experience with REST/SOAP, and integration challenges.
  • Supply Chain/ERP Knowledge: Questions to gauge understanding of relevant business processes.
  • Problem-Solving: Hypothetical scenarios related to system modernization, performance degradation, or integration issues.

• Portfolio Review: Candidates will be asked to present relevant projects from their portfolio, detailing their role, technical contributions, challenges, and outcomes.

• Final Interview/Offer: A final discussion may occur to confirm fit, discuss contract terms, and extend an offer.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Highlight Informix 4GL Mastery: Showcase complex Informix 4GL applications you've developed or maintained. Quantify improvements in performance or functionality.

• Demonstrate API Integration Success: Present case studies of APIs you've built or integrated. Clearly explain the endpoints, data formats, authentication methods, and the business problem solved.

• Showcase Unix Scripting Prowess: Include examples of sophisticated Korn or Awk scripts used for automation, data manipulation, or system monitoring. Explain the efficiency gains.

• Quantify Impact: Wherever possible, use metrics to demonstrate the value of your contributions (e.g., "reduced processing time by X%", "enabled integration of Y new partners," "resolved Z critical bugs").

• Explain Your Role: Be clear about your specific responsibilities and contributions within each project, especially when working in a team.

• Address Modernization Efforts: If you have experience migrating from Informix 4GL or integrating it with modern systems, make this a focal point.

Challenge Preparation:

• Code Review/Debugging: Be prepared to review a snippet of Informix 4GL or Unix code and identify potential issues or suggest improvements.

• System Design Scenario: You might be asked to outline an approach for integrating the legacy ERP with a new e-commerce platform or designing an API for a specific business process.

• Troubleshooting Walkthrough: Describe how you would approach diagnosing a performance issue in Informix or a connectivity problem with an API.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on portfolio presentation and technical challenges suggests a highly practical interview process. Candidates should be ready to "show, not just tell" their technical capabilities, particularly with Informix 4GL and API integrations.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Informix 4GL: The core development language for the legacy system.

• IBM Informix Dynamic Server (IDS): The primary database management system.

• Genero BDL: A potential target for migration or co-existence.

• Unix Shell Scripting: Korn, Awk for automation and system tasks.

• HP-UX: The specified operating system, though AIX and Linux are also mentioned.

• SQL: For database interaction and querying.

Analytics & Reporting:

• set explain: Informix utility for analyzing query execution plans.

• oncheck: Informix utility for database structure and integrity checks.

• Standard Unix utilities: For log analysis and monitoring.

CRM & Automation:

• API Integration: RESTful and SOAP protocols for connecting systems.

• EDI (810, 820): For electronic data interchange, particularly in supply chain.

• XML: For data structuring and exchange.

• Git, GitHub, GitLab: For version control and collaborative development.

• Salesforce & E-commerce Platforms: Target systems for integration.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role requires a strong command of a specific, albeit dated, technology stack (Informix 4GL, HP-UX) while simultaneously demanding proficiency in modern integration technologies (APIs, XML, Git). Understanding how these two worlds interact is key.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Reliability & Stability: Given the mission-critical nature of the ERP system, a strong emphasis will be placed on delivering robust, stable, and reliable solutions that minimize downtime.

• Efficiency & Optimization: A drive to improve system performance, automate processes, and reduce operational overhead through effective coding and system design.

• Collaboration & Communication: Essential for working effectively with both on-site and offshore team members, as well as cross-functional business units. Clear and proactive communication is paramount.

• Problem-Solving & Innovation: A proactive approach to identifying and resolving technical challenges, and a willingness to explore modern solutions for legacy system limitations.

• Quality & Accuracy: Ensuring that all code, integrations, and data handled are accurate and meet high-quality standards, especially in supply chain and invoicing processes.

Collaboration Style:

• Hybrid Approach: A blend of direct, in-person collaboration for the on-site resource and structured remote collaboration with offshore team members.

• Proactive Information Sharing: Regular updates, clear task delegation, and open channels for questions and issue reporting are necessary to bridge geographical and time zone differences.

• Mentorship: The senior on-site resource is expected to provide technical guidance and mentorship to the offshore team.

• Feedback Loop: Encouraging a culture of constructive feedback to continuously improve processes and code quality.

📝 Enhancement Note: The combination of legacy system maintenance and modernization implies a culture that respects deep technical expertise while embracing forward-thinking integration strategies. The on-site role serves as a crucial linchpin for team cohesion and project success.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Legacy System Modernization Complexity: Balancing the need to maintain a stable, operational legacy system with the drive to integrate it with modern, cloud-based platforms presents significant technical and architectural challenges.

• Bridging Technical Gaps: Effectively communicating and coordinating technical requirements and solutions between experienced legacy developers and those working with newer technologies.

• Offshore Team Coordination: Managing a distributed team across different time zones requires strong organizational skills, clear communication protocols, and effective delegation.

• Technical Debt Management: Addressing the inherent technical debt associated with a long-standing legacy system while delivering new functionality.

• Rapid Integration Demands: The need to expedite integration with Salesforce and e-commerce platforms requires efficient development and deployment cycles.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Deep Dive into Genero BDL: If migrating or integrating with it, there's an opportunity to become proficient in Genero BDL.

• Advanced API Development: Enhance skills in designing, implementing, and securing complex API integrations.

• Modern Cloud Platform Exposure: Gain hands-on experience working with Salesforce and e-commerce integration points.

• Supply Chain & ERP Domain Expertise: Develop a more profound understanding of critical business operations and their technical underpinnings.

• Cross-Cultural Team Management: Hone skills in managing and leading distributed, international teams.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a unique opportunity for seasoned IT professionals to leverage their deep legacy system knowledge while actively participating in a digital transformation initiative. The challenges are significant but offer substantial learning and professional development.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Legacy System Modernization: "Describe your approach to modernizing a critical legacy ERP system like Informix 4GL. What are the key phases, risks, and mitigation strategies?"

• API Integration Design: "How would you design an API to connect our legacy ERP's order creation module with a new e-commerce platform? What considerations would you make for security, scalability, and data consistency?"

• Troubleshooting Scenarios: "Imagine the Informix database is experiencing slow query performance. Walk me through your systematic approach to diagnosing and resolving this issue, including specific tools you would use."

• Team Coordination: "You need to delegate a complex Informix 4GL task to an offshore team member. How would you ensure they understand the requirements, have the necessary resources, and deliver quality work on time?"

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you understand about VTekis Consulting LLP's approach to staffing and client solutions?"

• "How do you ensure effective communication and collaboration when working with a distributed team and a client's business stakeholders?"

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Case Studies: For each project, clearly outline the problem, your solution, the technologies used, your specific role and contributions, challenges faced, and the quantifiable results achieved.

• Focus on Informix 4GL & APIs: Prioritize examples that showcase your expertise in Informix 4GL development, optimization, and API integration.

• Demonstrate Problem-Solving: Use examples to illustrate your analytical and troubleshooting skills.

• Quantify Impact: Use metrics (percentages, time saved, revenue impact) to highlight the business value of your work.

• Be Ready for Technical Deep Dives: Anticipate detailed questions about the code, architecture, and decision-making processes behind your portfolio projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interviewers will be looking for a candidate who not only possesses the required technical skills but also demonstrates strategic thinking, strong problem-solving abilities, and effective leadership/coordination capabilities, especially in a contract, project-driven environment.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on smartrecruiters.com.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to prominently feature your experience with Informix 4GL, HP-UX, Unix Shell Scripting, API development, and Supply Chain/ERP domain knowledge. Use keywords from the job description.

• Portfolio Preparation: Curate 2-3 key projects that best demonstrate your Informix 4GL expertise, API integration capabilities, and any system modernization or troubleshooting experience. Be prepared to discuss these in detail.

• Technical Readiness: Brush up on Informix 4GL syntax, SQL query optimization, common Unix commands and scripting techniques, and API integration patterns (REST/SOAP).

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with VTekis Consulting LLP's services and their approach to client solutions. Understand the importance of the legacy ERP system to the client's operations.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.