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Mainframe Administration Jobs (NOW HIRING)

WaveStrong, Inc.

Mainframe Security SME

Dallas, TX · On-site

Exciting Mainframe Security SME, 12 months, contract opportunity. Requirements Seeking a Mainframe ... Implement RACF administration best practices, including role-based access, dataset protection ...

Anivas Tech LLC

Mainframe SRE

Upper Marlboro, MD · On-site

$48.50 - $62.50/hr

... administration, or engineering on IBM z/OS platforms * Proficiency in JCL, REXX, or other mainframe scripting languages * Experience with core mainframe subsystems including CICS, IMS, DB2, VSAM, and ...

Taproot Solutions

Mainframe ZOS System Programmer

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$54.50 - $69.50/hr

Mainframe ZOS System Programmer Location : Phoenix, AZ area. Duration : 6 to 12+Months The ... System Administration & Maintenance: * Install, configure, and maintain IBM z/OS operating systems.

Navtech, Inc.

mainframe Developer

Jackson, MS · On-site

$42.25 - $54.50/hr

Ardent Technologies Inc / Dept of health MS Required Skills/Experience 15+ years of Software AG (SAG) Adabas Administration (Adabas 6 or later) 15+ years IBM z/OS Mainframe 2 or more years' practical ...

HUMAC INC.

Mainframe Systems Programmer (z/OS)

Charlotte, NC · On-site

$53.75 - $68.25/hr

Mainframe Systems Programmer (z/OS) Location: Hybrid Charlotte, NC / Malvern, PA ( Only Local ... administration, and upgrades Hands-on experience with SMP/E, RACF, ACF2, SYSPLEX, LPAR, MVS ...

Stem Xpert

Mainframe developer

Mclean, VA

$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 ...

MM International

MQ Mainframe Engineer

Alpharetta, GA · On-site

$47.75 - $61.50/hr

MQ Mainframe Engineer Alpharetta, GA - 3 days/week onsite 12+ month contract position Description ... MC consists of experienced administration, operations and engineering staff required to support the ...

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Mainframe Administration information

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How much do mainframe administration jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 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 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.

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.
More about Mainframe Administration jobs
What cities are hiring for Mainframe Administration jobs? Cities with the most Mainframe Administration job openings:
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Mainframe Administration jobs near you
Infographic showing various Mainframe Administration job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $111,026 per year, or $53.4 per hour.
Mainframe Security SME

Mainframe Security SME

WaveStrong, Inc.

Dallas, TX • On-site

Contractor

Re-posted 5 days ago

Job description

Exciting Mainframe Security SME, 12 months, contract opportunity.

Requirements

Seeking a Mainframe Security SME to support:

Project: Migration from Broadcom ACF2 to RACF.

  • Lead the end-to-end migration from ACF2 to RACF, including planning, design, testing, cutover, and stabilization.
  • Develop and maintain the migration roadmap, timelines, and risk mitigation strategies.
  • Conduct detailed analysis of existing ACF2 rules, resource definitions, and access models to map them to RACF equivalents.
  • Build automated or semi-automated processes to streamline conversion and validation.

Technical Engineering & Architecture

  • Design RACF class structures, grouping, profiles, and naming standards aligned with enterprise security policies.
  • Implement RACF administration best practices, including role-based access, dataset protection, digital certificates, and password/ MFA integration.
  • Configure and optimize z/OS security components such as ICSF, PKI, SAF exits, and SMF logging.
  • Develop scripts, tools, and utilities to support RACF administration and reporting.

Governance, Compliance & Risk Management

  • Ensure RACF implementation aligns with regulatory requirements (SOX, PCI, HIPAA, etc.).
  • Partner with audit teams to provide evidence, reporting, and remediation guidance.
  • Establish RACF operational procedures, access request workflows, and ongoing governance models.

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