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Mainframe Architect Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Avanciers is seeking a highly skilled Mainframe Architect to join our team for an exciting Fulltime opportunity with one of our esteemed clients, based in Richards, TX Title: Mainframe Architect ...

Mainframe Architect Location: Richmond, VA (or) McLean, VA (Hybrid - 2 to 3 days a week onsite) Job Type: Contract Skill Metrics: Cobol Mainframe CICS REXX VSAM JCL Years of experience required: 15 ...

Mainframe Architect 100% Onsite (5 Days/Week) Pittsburgh, PA, Cleveland, OH, Strongsville, Birmingham, AL, Dallas, Phoenix, AZ Role Summary The Solution Architect Lead is responsible for designing ...

Mainframe Architect 100% Onsite (5 Days/Week) Pittsburgh, PA, Cleveland, OH, Strongsville, Birmingham, AL, Dallas, Phoenix, AZ Role Summary The Solution Architect Lead is responsible for designing ...

Mainframe Architect 100% Onsite (5 Days/Week) Pittsburgh, PA, Cleveland, OH, Strongsville, Birmingham, AL, Dallas, Phoenix, AZ Role Summary The Solution Architect Lead is responsible for designing ...

Mainframe Architect 100% Onsite (5 Days/Week) Pittsburgh, PA, Cleveland, OH, Strongsville, Birmingham, AL, Dallas, Phoenix, AZ Role Summary The Solution Architect Lead is responsible for designing ...

1. Strong experience in mainframe architecture and application pattern/component identification - PL/1, COBOL, CICS, IMS/DB2, JCL 2. Proven expertise in application sizing, complexity scoring, and ...

Mainframe Architect Location: Parsippany, NJ (Hybrid) Job Type: Contract Skill Metrics: DB2 Cobol IBM ALCS CICS JCL Mandatory skills: COBOL, JCL, DB2, ALCS & CICS Experience required: 6-15 years Job ...

Mainframe Architect Job Location: Erlanger, KY Job Type: Contract to Hire * Develop maintain and enhance Mainframe based applications and systems using languages like COBOL PLI Assembler or REXX

Mainframe Architect Location: Pittsburgh, PA Type: Contract Compensation: $0.00 Contractor Work Model: Onsite - onsite Hours: 40.0 Security Clearance: Not specified Overview Leave placeholder text ...

Mainframe Architect Location: Pittsburgh, PA Type: Contract Compensation: $0.00 Contractor Work Model: Onsite - onsite Hours: 40.0 Security Clearance: Not specified Overview Leave placeholder text ...

Mainframe Architect Location: Pittsburgh, PA Type: Contract Compensation: $0.00 Contractor Work Model: Onsite - onsite Hours: 40.0 Security Clearance: Not specified Overview Leave placeholder text ...

Mainframe Architect Location: Pittsburgh, PA Type: Contract Compensation: $0.00 Contractor Work Model: Onsite - onsite Hours: 40.0 Security Clearance: Not specified Overview Leave placeholder text ...

Application Architect II on Mainframe side Work with the client's SME Ideal candidate is someone who understands business processes on Steel Mfg side. N-W Indiana area In office a couple of times a ...

• Application Architect II on Mainframe side • Work with the client's SME • Ideal candidate is someone who understands business processes on Steel Mfg side. • N-W Indiana area • In office a ...

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Mainframe Architect information

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How much do mainframe architect jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for mainframe architect in the United States is $60.22, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $59.38 and $68.99 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is mainframe architecture?

Mainframe architecture is the design of mainframe computers used for large-scale computing applications, such as data storage or customer statistics, as well as processing other types of bulk information. As a mainframe architect, your primary duties include designing mainframes (including servers) and ensuring that hardware and software work in harmony. The career typically requires a bachelor’s degree in computer science, computer architecture, or a similar field and relevant work experience. You may also obtain professional certification, such as from the International Software Testing Qualifications Board (ISTQB), to demonstrate your expertise and boost your job prospects. Additional qualifications include strong programming skills and analytical problem-solving ability.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a mainframe architect?

To thrive as a Mainframe Architect, you need deep expertise in mainframe systems (such as IBM z/OS), enterprise architecture principles, and extensive experience in legacy modernization or integration, usually backed by a degree in computer science or related field. Familiarity with tools like COBOL, JCL, CICS, DB2, and modern middleware, as well as certifications such as IBM Certified System Architect, is highly beneficial. Strong problem-solving, communication, and leadership skills help you navigate complex environments and collaborate with cross-functional teams. These skills are crucial to ensure efficient, secure, and scalable mainframe solutions that align with business goals.

Are mainframe architect jobs in demand?

Mainframe architect jobs are in demand due to the continued reliance of large organizations on legacy systems for critical operations. These roles require expertise in mainframe technologies, system architecture, and often involve managing COBOL, JCL, and mainframe security. The demand persists as companies seek to modernize while maintaining their core mainframe infrastructure.

How does a mainframe architect typically collaborate with cross-functional teams during large-scale modernization projects?

Mainframe Architects play a central role in modernization projects by acting as a bridge between legacy mainframe teams, application developers, and business stakeholders. They frequently host technical workshops, contribute to strategy sessions, and ensure that mainframe integrations align with broader enterprise architecture goals. Effective collaboration involves translating business requirements into scalable technical designs and mentoring teams on best practices for mainframe and hybrid environments. This collaborative approach helps streamline project delivery and fosters a culture of continuous learning within the organization.

What is the difference between Mainframe Architect vs Mainframe Developer?

AspectMainframe ArchitectMainframe Developer
Required CertificationsIBM Certified Solution Architect, z/OS certificationsIBM Certified Application Developer, z/OS certifications
Work EnvironmentDesigns and oversees mainframe systems, works on architecture and planningDevelops, codes, and tests mainframe applications
Employer & Industry UsageFinancial institutions, government agencies, large enterprisesFinancial services, insurance, retail, and other sectors using mainframes

The Mainframe Architect focuses on designing and planning mainframe systems, ensuring they meet organizational needs. In contrast, the Mainframe Developer implements these designs by coding and testing applications. Both roles require similar certifications and are vital in industries relying on mainframe technology, but they differ in scope and responsibilities.

What is a mainframe architect?

Mainframe Architects are IT professionals responsible for designing, implementing, and managing the architecture of mainframe computer systems within an organization. They ensure the mainframe's reliability, scalability, and security to support critical business operations. Their role often includes evaluating new technologies, optimizing system performance, and coordinating integration with other IT systems. Mainframe Architects work closely with developers, system administrators, and business stakeholders to align mainframe strategies with organizational goals.
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Infographic showing various Mainframe Architect job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Contract. Highlights an 67% In-person, and 33% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $125,263 per year, or $60.2 per hour.

Mainframe Architect

Avanciers LLC

Richardson, TX • On-site

Other

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

 
Avanciers is seeking a highly skilled Mainframe Architect to join our team for an exciting Fulltime opportunity with one of our esteemed clients, based in Richards, TX
 
Title: Mainframe Architect
Location: Richards, TX
Fulltime
 
  • Role & Scope: Full-time Mainframe Architect position requiring 10+ years of enterprise experience across all clients locations.

  • Strategic Leadership: Define architecture strategies, technology roadmaps, and modernization pathways for mission-critical enterprise mainframe platforms.

  • Technical Design: Oversee scalable, secure, and high-performance solution designs leveraging COBOL, CICS, DB2, IMS, MQ, and z/OS technologies.

  • Legacy Transformation: Drive legacy system transformation programs and evaluate emerging cloud integration and modernization approaches.

  • Team Mentorship: Guide and mentor development teams on architectural best practices within complex technology landscapes.

  • Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner closely with business stakeholders, infrastructure teams, and global cross-functional groups.

  • Governance & Resilience: Ensure system resilience, high performance, security standards, and robust governance across all mainframe environments.