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Mainframe Administration Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Prophecy Technologies

Mainframe Network Engineer (L3)

$50.25 - $64.50/hr

Proven ability to manage mainframe network configuration, administration, and troubleshooting. * Strong English language skills. * US Citizen or Green Card holder only. * Self-motivated, well ...

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 ...

WaveStrong, Inc.

Mainframe Security SME

Dallas, TX · On-site +1

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

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 ...

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 ...

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Mainframe Administration information

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$10

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How much do mainframe administration jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 20, 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.

How much do mainframe system administrators make?

Mainframe system administrators typically earn between $70,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on experience, certifications, and location. Senior roles or those with specialized skills in tools like z/OS or COBOL can earn higher salaries, often exceeding $130,000.

Is mainframe still in demand?

Mainframe administration remains in demand in industries such as banking, finance, and government, where large-scale transaction processing and data security are critical. Skilled professionals with knowledge of z/OS, COBOL, and mainframe tools are sought after to maintain legacy systems and ensure operational continuity.

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 sysadmin entry level?

Mainframe administration roles are typically not entry-level positions and usually require several years of experience with mainframe systems, such as z/OS, and knowledge of tools like JCL and TSO. Entry-level positions in IT may involve supporting roles or junior positions, but mainframe sysadmin roles generally demand advanced skills and certifications.

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 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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Mainframe Administration jobs near you
Infographic showing various Mainframe Administration job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 98% Full Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 7% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $111,026 per year, or $53.4 per hour.

Mainframe Developer at Wilmington, DE

BI-Commercial

Wilmington, DE • On-site

$47.50 - $61.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 26 days ago

Job description

Role: Mainframe Developer

Location: Wilmington, DE

Must Have: IMS/DB, CICS, COBOL and JCL

Required Skills:

• Programming Languages: Strong proficiency in COBOL

• Mainframe Operating Systems: In-depth knowledge of z/OS

• Database Technologies: Expertise in IMS database concepts including IMS/DB and IMS/DC

• Transaction Processing: Thorough understanding of CICS functionalities and programming interfaces

• Job Control Language (JCL): Ability to write and manage JCL scripts for batch processing

• System Administration: Basic understanding of mainframe system administration tasks like data set management and security