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Mainframe Administration Jobs (NOW HIRING)

IBM Mainframe Systems Engineer

Charleston, WV · On-site

$53.50 - $68/hr

User administration * Access permissions * Security logging * AND/OR Mainframe DB2 * DB2 installation/migration * Performance tuning * Database maintenance * Mainframe pervasive encryption * SAS AFP ...

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 ...

Mainframe Developer

Dallas, TX · On-site

$48.75 - $62.50/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 ...

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 Systems Programmer

Charleston, WV · On-site

$53.50 - $68/hr

Mainframe Systems Programmer must have a minimum of five (5) years of experience managing and configuring RACF (Resource Access Control Facility) for mainframe security, including user administration ...

Mainframe Developer

Cleveland, OH · On-site

$47.50 - $61/hr

Incident Management Mainframe DB2 - Application Development System Z - JCL IT IS AMS Mainframe_DB2 Administration. Education: At least a bachelor s degree (or equivalent experience) in Computer ...

Mainframe Systems Programmer

Charleston, WV · On-site

$53.50 - $68/hr

Mainframe Systems Programmer must have a minimum of five (5) years of experience managing and configuring RACF (Resource Access Control Facility) for mainframe security, including user administration ...

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Mainframe Administration information

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How much do mainframe administration jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 11, 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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Infographic showing various Mainframe Administration job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $111,026 per year, or $53.4 per hour.

IBM Mainframe Systems Engineer

Charleston, WV • On-site

MSYS Inc.
11 - 50 employees

$53.50 - $68/hr

Other

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Title:IBM Mainframe Systems Engineer
Location:Charleston,WV
Length:Long term
Restriction:w2 or c2c
 
 
 
 
Description:

***Mode of Interview :- Webcam interview ***long term project (initial PO for 1 year with multiyear extensions) ***Hybrid (3days per week Onsite at Charleston-WV***Need 3 References ***

Job Description:-

  • Support IBM mainframe systems engineering, operating-system upgrades, security, RACF, DB2, encryption, SAS reporting, and mainframe printing.

Key Skills

  • IBM z/OS ISV software upgrades/maintenance
  • RACF Mainframe security
  • User administration
  • Access permissions
  • Security logging
  • AND/OR Mainframe DB2
  • DB2 installation/migration
  • Performance tuning
  • Database maintenance
  • Mainframe pervasive encryption
  • SAS AFP printing
  • Print queues
  • SSA compliance
Experience
  • 5+ years Mainframe Systems Engineering
  • 3+ years IBM z/OS and ISV software upgrades/maintenance
  • 5+ years RACF/security administration
  • 2+ years Mainframe DB2
  • 3+ years Pervasive Encryption
  • SAS/mainframe reporting experience