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Mainframe Administration Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The candidate will provide mainframe administration, configuration management, release management, troubleshooting, debugging, database performance optimization, and technical guidance. Local North ...

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MDAEdge is a company seeking a Mainframe DB2 Administrator with extensive expertise in z/OS System Administration and Mainframe technologies. The role involves leading a team, managing system ...

MDAEdge is a company seeking a Mainframe DB2 Administrator with extensive experience in z/OS System Administration and related technologies. The role involves managing a team of Mainframe ...

Mainframe Developer

Austin, TX · On-site

$90 - $130/hr

Proven experience in mainframe development or administration (IBM z/OS environment preferred) * Proficiency in COBOL, JCL, CICS, DB2, or related mainframe technologies * Strong understanding of batch ...

Mainframe Developer

Dallas, TX · On-site

$90 - $130/hr

Proven experience in mainframe development and/or administration in an enterprise environment * Proficiency in COBOL, JCL, CICS, and z/OS operating systems * Experience with IBM mainframe tools such ...

Mainframe Engineer

Livingston, NJ · On-site

$53.50 - $68.75/hr

Responsible for the overall management and administration of DB2 for z/OS, CICS for z/OS. * Analyze ... Initiate z/OS environmental set-up to support all Mainframe software products. * Provide technical ...

Experience with mainframe database administration, including database structure maintenance, performance monitoring, and data integrity validation. * Strong working knowledge of JCL, Flat-Files ...

Adabas mainframe

Atlanta, GA · Remote

$50.25 - $64.50/hr

Adabas mainframe Looking for a ADABAS DBA/ Developer/ ADABAS production support/ Mainframe ... Enterprise Z group consists of experienced administration, operations and engineering staff ...

Mainframe Engineer

Livingston, NJ · On-site

$53.50 - $68.75/hr

This position is a critical member of the Mainframe Engineering team. The primary function is ... Responsible for the overall management and administration of DB2 for z/OS, CICS for z/OS. * Analyze ...

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Mainframe Administration information

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How much do mainframe administration jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for mainframe administration in the United States is $53.38, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47.12 and $60.58 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is mainframe administration?

Mainframe Administration involves managing and maintaining mainframe computer systems, which are powerful servers used by large organizations for critical applications and bulk data processing. Mainframe Administrators are responsible for installing, configuring, monitoring, and securing mainframe hardware and software. They ensure system performance, troubleshoot technical issues, handle backup and recovery, and apply updates or patches to keep systems running smoothly and securely. This role often requires strong technical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work with legacy systems.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a mainframe administrator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Mainframe Administrator, you need a solid understanding of mainframe operating systems (such as z/OS), system configuration, and troubleshooting, typically supported by a degree in computer science or related IT experience. Familiarity with tools like IBM System Automation, JCL, RACF, and monitoring solutions, as well as certifications such as IBM Certified System Administrator, is highly valued. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help administrators efficiently resolve issues and collaborate with IT teams. These skills and qualifications are essential to ensure the reliability, security, and optimal performance of critical enterprise computing environments.

What are some common challenges faced by mainframe administrators and how can they be addressed?

Mainframe Administrators often encounter challenges such as managing legacy systems, ensuring system uptime, and balancing security with accessibility. Keeping up with evolving technologies and integrating mainframes with modern applications can require continuous learning and adaptation. Effective communication with development and operations teams is vital to ensure seamless updates and minimize downtime. Proactively monitoring system performance and applying best practices for disaster recovery can also help mitigate risks and maintain reliability.

What is the difference between Mainframe Administration vs Mainframe Support?

AspectMainframe AdministrationMainframe Support
CertificationsIBM Certified System Administrator, z/OS certificationsSimilar certifications, often including z/OS support certifications
Work EnvironmentData centers, enterprise IT departments managing mainframe systemsHelp desks, support teams assisting users and troubleshooting issues
ResponsibilitiesSystem setup, configuration, maintenance, performance tuningIssue resolution, user support, incident management
Industry UsageFinancial institutions, government agencies, large corporationsSame industries, focusing on user support and problem resolution

Mainframe Administration involves managing and maintaining mainframe systems, ensuring optimal performance and security. Mainframe Support focuses on assisting users, troubleshooting issues, and resolving incidents. Both roles require similar certifications and are vital in industries relying on mainframe technology, but they differ in daily responsibilities and focus areas.

Is it hard to become a mainframe administrator?

Becoming a mainframe administrator requires a strong understanding of mainframe systems like IBM z/OS, proficiency in scripting and automation, and often a relevant certification. The role can be technically challenging due to the complexity of mainframe environments, but with proper training and experience, it is achievable for those with a background in IT or computer science.

Is mainframe administration a good career option?

Mainframe administration is a stable and well-paying career that involves managing large-scale computer systems used by many organizations. It requires knowledge of mainframe operating systems like z/OS, skills in system maintenance, and often certifications such as IBM Certified System Administrator. The role offers opportunities for specialization and long-term job security due to the continued reliance on mainframes in industries like finance and government.

What does a mainframe administrator do?

A mainframe administrator manages and maintains large-scale computer systems known as mainframes, ensuring their security, performance, and availability. They configure hardware and software, monitor system operations, troubleshoot issues, and implement updates, often using tools like z/OS and requiring knowledge of system security and backup procedures.
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What cities are hiring for Mainframe Administration jobs?

Cities with the most Mainframe Administration job openings:

What states have the most Mainframe Administration jobs?

States with the most job openings for Mainframe Administration jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Mainframe Administration jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Mainframe Administration jobs are:

Infographic showing various Mainframe Administration job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $111,026 per year, or $53.4 per hour.

Mainframe System Programmer

Accel BI

Raleigh, NC • On-site

$110 - $160/hr

Other

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description

accel bi corporation is seeking an experienced Mainframe Systems Programmer to join our team in Raleigh, North Carolina. This is a full-time W2, onsite position. The selected candidate will serve as a mainframe technical expert, supporting IBM z/OS environments and technologies including CICS, DB2, Endevor, IMS, JCL, SQL, middleware, and IBM MQ.

The candidate will provide mainframe administration, configuration management, release management, troubleshooting, debugging, database performance optimization, and technical guidance. Local North Carolina candidates who can attend an in-person interview are required.

Responsibilities

Provide technical support and guidance for the IBM z/OS mainframe environment.
Administer, support, troubleshoot, and debug CICS applications and services.
Provide configuration and release management support using Endevor.
Support DB2 databases, tools, and utilities.
Analyze complex SQL queries and recommend performance improvements.
Identify opportunities to improve system performance and reduce processing costs.
Support JCL, IMS, middleware, and IBM MQ components.
Investigate and resolve mainframe application and system issues.
Collaborate with application developers, infrastructure personnel, and other technical teams.
Maintain technical documentation and follow established change and release management procedures.

Qualifications

Thorough knowledge of the IBM z/OS operating system and its interrelationships.
Strong knowledge of CICS, DB2, Endevor, JCL, and SQL.
Knowledge of DB2 tools and utilities.
Ability to evaluate and optimize complex SQL queries.
Experience with CICS administration, troubleshooting, and debugging.
Experience with configuration management and software release processes.
Knowledge of IMS, middleware, and IBM MQ is preferred.
Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
Must be able to work onsite in Raleigh, NC.
Must be available for an in-person interview.
Must be legally authorized to work in the United States without current or future sponsorship or visa transfer. Only U.S. citizens and Green Card holders can be considered.

Job Demographic

Location Raleigh, North Carolina, United States - Onsite, Local North Carolina candidates only.

Experience Minimum 7 years of relevant professional mainframe experience, including hands-on experience with z/OS, CICS, DB2, Endevor, JCL, and SQL.

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