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Mainframe Administration Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Mainframe developer

Mclean, VA · On-site

$49.50 - $63.75/hr

... Administration Title: Mainframe developer Location: Mclean, VA Duration: contract or full time Skillset : Experience in Mainframe (COBOL/JCL/DB2/IMS/CICS) - must have. Must have - Mainframe and IMS ...

Mainframe Engineer

Merrifield, VA · On-site

$49 - $62.75/hr

Job#: 3046406 Mainframe Engineer Location: Merrifield, Virginia (Hybrid) or Remote U.S. Role ... Expert-level experience with IBM System Automation for z/OS, including administration ...

Mainframe CICS Systems Engineer

Mclean, VA · On-site

$49.50 - $63.75/hr

EZ consists of experienced administration, operations and engineering staff required to support the ... The Mainframe CICS Systems Programmer/Engineer is responsible for all phases of CICS engineering ...

Qualifications: * 5+ years of hands-on experience administering RACF in an IBM z/OS mainframe environment. * Strong experience with IBM zSecure administration and reporting. * Deep understanding of ...

Different versions such as DB2 9 through 12 Detailed 5-8 years of DBA experience in DB2 on zOS Database Administration and SupportThorough knowledge and experience of working on DB2 on Mainframes.

Different versions such as DB2 9 through 12 Detailed 5-8 years of DBA experience in DB2 on zOS Database Administration and SupportThorough knowledge and experience of working on DB2 on Mainframes.

COBOL DEVELOPER

Glen Allen, VA · On-site

$46.75 - $63.25/hr

Knowledge of Assembler programming in the IBM Mainframe environment * Working knowledge of CLOAS Policy Administration System * Practical knowledge of LTC insurance products and premiums * Experience ...

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Mainframe Administration information

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.

What are popular job titles related to Mainframe Administration jobs in Virginia?

For Mainframe Administration jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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

The top searched job categories for Mainframe Administration jobs in Virginia are:

Infographic showing various Mainframe Administration job openings in Virginia as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution.

Application Engineer

Vienna, VA • On-site

Navy Federal Credit Union
Finance and Insurance • 10K+ employees

Other

Re-posted 11 days ago


Navy Federal Credit Union rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 276 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Overview
To research, evaluate, design, implement, and maintain system and product solutions, applying knowledge of engineering principles. To provide technical direction and engineering support for projects and infrastructure. Develop and maintain expert functional knowledge of evolving IT engineering industry technologies/competition, concepts and trends. Lead and own complex projects or workstreams with limited supervision. Provide technical leadership to provide robust end-to-end solutions. Lead the delivery of computing services and the duties associated with cloud deliveries such as designing, planning, administering, developing, or maintaining applications in cloud-based environments. Lead the delivery and support of mainframe computing services, including designing, implementing, automating, administering, and maintaining highly available z/OS-based applications and platform solutions.
This position is eligible for the TalentQuest employee referral program. If an employee referred you for this job, please apply using the system-generated link that was sent to you.
Responsibilities
  • Provide technical leadership to the aligned agile teams within the agile release train (ART)
    • Establish and lead project teams
    • Develop project plan/scope/schedule/cost/communications
    • Procure and/or manage resources/timelines/deadlines/quality
    • Risk, Issue and Change management
    • Ensure successful project implementation
    • Scope of responsibility - Broad scope
    • Actively contributing to SAFe Agile ceremonies and artifacts
  • Design and implement cloud-based integration patterns using tools such as MuleSoft, Kafka, Azure integration Services
  • Designing and maintaining scalable architecture, designing and coding application solutions; integrating changes with other NFCU/vendor systems, and implementing vendor SaaS solutions.
  • Support and contribute to the cloud migration and platform modernization roadmap for Consumer Lending
  • Collaborate with platform architects to define and implement event-driven architectures, microservices, and CI/CD pipelines
  • Collaborate with mainframe platform and application engineers to define and implement automation, orchestration, recovery, restart, monitoring, and operational support patterns across z/OS subsystems and middleware.
  • Document new system components, or modifications to existing components
  • Design and implement highly available mainframe application and platform solutions in accordance with Navy Federal standards, including integration patterns connecting mainframe, cloud, distributed, and vendor systems.
  • Partner with technology teams to identify and reengineer processes as applications and services onboard to or integrate with the mainframe platform.
  • Develop, maintain, debug mainframe programs, jobs, procs as needed
  • Analyze, modify, create new COBOL, JCL, SORT, Assembler, REXX, DB2 codes using Changeman management tool
  • Use mainframe/TSO debugging tools (FileAid, $avers, JCLPLUS, Omegamon) to provide technical support to identify and resolve issues involving mainframe components
  • Create or modify new or existing job schedules using ESP
  • Create tickets (change ticket, DTAs, serviceNow) as needed
  • Develop and maintain thorough mainframe technical documentation, including system diagrams, automation definitions, operational procedures, dependencies, and recovery processes.
  • Ensure the security and integrity of system and product solutions including compliance with Navy Federal, industry engineering and Information Security principles and practices
  • Perform engineering tasks and assignments in support of business needs
  • Perform engineering technology research, procurement, deployment, and configuration for new and modified systems
  • Lead efforts to automate and orchestrate repeatable mainframe administration and application support tasks, improving reliability, reusability, and operational efficiency.
  • Provide technical leadership in the architecture discipline and development of information technology solutions
  • Present clear, organized and concise information to all audiences through a variety of media to enable effective business decisions
  • Perform other duties as assigned
  • Providing level 3 (development tier) support, troubleshooting and resolving application/solution incidents
  • Provide Level 3 support for mainframe applications and platform integrations, including investigation and resolution of availability, performance, batch, middleware, automation, and production incidents.
  • Participate in an on-call rotation, as required, to support high-availability mainframe and integrated application services.
  • Provide input for estimation and delivery timeline recommendations including staffing needs
  • Ensuring the security and integrity of system and product solutions including compliance with Navy Federal, industry engineering and Information Security principles and practices.

Qualifications
  • 8-10 years of experience as a cloud or integration engineer in complex enterprise environment
  • Hands-on experience with Java, Spring, MuleSoft, RESTful APIs, OAuth 2.0, and message brokers and overall REST API Service development.
  • Hands-on experience with mainframe technologies such as JCL, REXX, TSO/ISPF, SDSF, CICS, Db2, IMS, JES2/JES3, MQ, TCP/IP, and z/OS UNIX System Services (USS/OMVS).
  • Experience with IBM System Automation for z/OS and IBM NetView, including administration, configuration, policy-driven automation, automation tables, message automation, command lists, event processing, resource dependencies, and automation routines.
  • Proficient in cloud platforms (Azure, AWS, or Google Cloud Platform), especially with managed integration services (e.g., Azure Functions, Logic Apps, API Management, Event Grid)
  • Experience integrating mainframe applications and automation with cloud, distributed, monitoring, event management, IT service management, and API-based solutions.
  • Experience in deploying and maintaining production systems
  • Experience supporting highly available mainframe production systems, including recovery, restart, health monitoring, workload scheduling, batch processing, and self-healing automation.
  • Knowledge of Parallel Sysplex environments, IBM Workload Scheduler (IWS/TWS/ZWS), and cross-system automation concepts.
  • Advanced organizational, planning and time management skills
  • Advanced skill exercise initiative and using good judgment to make sound decisions
  • Expert database and presentation software skills
  • Expert research, analytical, and problem-solving skills
  • Expert verbal and written communication skills
  • Bachelor's degree in computer science, Information Technology or the equivalent combination of training, education, and experience
  • Experience engineering, supporting, or integrating applications in complex enterprise mainframe environments, including IBM z/OS and z/Series platforms.

Desired Qualifications:
  • Master's degree in computer science, Information Technology, or related degree.
  • Experience designing, implementing, and supporting cloud and cloud native, LOS, LMS systems.
  • Exposure to Databricks or other data lake platforms
  • Business domain experience in consumer and business lending origination, servicing, and delivery.
  • AI experience.
  • Experience and knowledge of relational databases, data modeling, and ETL tools.

Additional Information
Hours:
  • Monday - Friday, 8:00AM - 4:30PM

Location:
  • 820 Follin Lane, Vienna, VA 22180
  • 5510 Heritage Oaks Drive, Pensacola, FL 32526
  • 141 Security Drive, Winchester, VA 22602

About Us
Navy Federal provides much more than a job. We provide a meaningful career experience, including a culture that is energized, engaged and committed; and fierce appreciation for our teams, who are rewarded with highly competitive pay and generous benefits and perks.
Our approach to careers is simple yet powerful: Make our mission your passion.
FORTUNE 100 Best Companies to Work For 2026
Yello and WayUp Top 100 Internship Programs 2025
Computerworld Best Places to Work in IT 2026
Most Loved Workplace - America's Top Most Loved Workplaces 2025
2025 PEOPLE Companies That Care
Newsweek Most Trustworthy Companies in America 2026
Military Times 2025 Best for Vets Employers
Forbes 2026 America's Best Large Employers
Forbes 2025 America's Best Employers for New Grads
Forbes 2025 America's Best Employers for Tech Workers
2025 RippleMatch Campus Forward Award Winner for Overall Excellence
Military.com Top Military Spouse Employers 2025
2026 Handshake Early Talent Award
Newsweek America's Greatest Workplaces for Culture, Belonging and Community 2026
From Fortune Magazine. 2026 Fortune Media IP Limited. All rights reserved. Used under license. Fortune and Fortune 100 Best Companies to Work For are registered trademarks of Fortune Media IP Limited and are used under license. Fortune Magazine, Fortune Media (USA) Corporation, and its affiliates are not affiliated with, and do not endorse products or services of, Navy Federal Credit Union.
Equal Employment Opportunity: All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, sex, color, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, pregnancy, sexual orientation, genetic information, gender identity or any other basis protected by applicable law.
Accommodations: If you need accommodation or assistance for a qualifying condition to complete the online application (or during any stage of the hiring process), you can contact Navy Federal's Medical Accommodations team at or by calling 1-. This team cannot provide any information on job postings or application status.
Disclaimers: Navy Federal reserves the right to fill this role at a higher/lower grade level based on business need. An assessment may be required to compete for this position. Job postings are subject to close early or extend out longer than the anticipated closing date at the hiring team's discretion based on qualified applicant volume. Navy Federal Credit Union assesses market data to establish salary ranges that enable us to remain competitive. You are paid within the salary range, based on your experience, location and market position. For additional details regarding compensation and benefits, review the Benefits page of the Navy Federal Career Site.
Protect Yourself from Job Scams: Navy Federal Credit Union jobs are posted on our career site, jobs.navyfederal.org and reputable job boards (e.g., LinkedIn, Indeed). We do not post jobs on social media marketplaces, messaging apps or unverified websites. We will never ask candidates for payment, bank details or personal financial information during the hiring process.
Bank Secrecy Act: Remains cognizant of and adheres to Navy Federal policies and procedures, and regulations pertaining to the Bank Secrecy Act.

What Navy Federal Credit Union employees say

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Navy Federal Credit Union logo

About Navy Federal Credit Union

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Navy Federal Credit Union, based in Vienna, Virginia, United States, is a significant player in the financial services industry. Their official website is navyfederal.org. With its roots dating back to 1933, it was initially established to provide credit to Navy members. Over the years, Navy Federal has magnified its scope, evolving into a full-service credit union serving all branches of the military, the Department of Defense, veterans, and their families. The company’s core values include integrity, service, education, and leadership. Navy Federal aims to be the most preferred and trusted financial institution serving the military and their families.

Industry

Finance and insurance

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Vienna, VA, US

Year founded

1933