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Mainframe Architect Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Senior Mainframe DevOps Architect

San Jose, CA · On-site

$151K - $206K/yr

About the Role We are seeking a Senior Mainframe DevOps Architect to lead solution design and own end-to-end architecture for enterprise customers-translating complex business requirements into ...

About the Role Are you a seasoned Mainframe Specialist with deep, hands-on command of COBOL, JCL ... Partner with cross-functional teams-architects, developers, QA, and business analysts-to gather ...

About the Role Are you a seasoned Mainframe Specialist with deep, hands-on command of COBOL, JCL ... Partner with cross-functional teams-architects, developers, QA, and business analysts-to gather ...

About the Role Are you a seasoned Mainframe Specialist with deep, hands-on command of COBOL, JCL ... Partner with cross-functional teams-architects, developers, QA, and business analysts-to gather ...

About the Role Are you a seasoned Mainframe Specialist with deep, hands-on command of COBOL, JCL ... Partner with cross-functional teams-architects, developers, QA, and business analysts-to gather ...

About the Role Are you a seasoned Mainframe Specialist with deep, hands-on command of COBOL, JCL ... Partner with cross-functional teams-architects, developers, QA, and business analysts-to gather ...

About the Role Are you a seasoned Mainframe Specialist with deep, hands-on command of COBOL, JCL ... Partner with cross-functional teams-architects, developers, QA, and business analysts-to gather ...

About the Role Are you a seasoned Mainframe Specialist with deep, hands-on command of COBOL, JCL ... Partner with cross-functional teams-architects, developers, QA, and business analysts-to gather ...

SYSVIEW, OPS/MVS, NetMaster, Mainframe Application Tuner, etc., that is, a specialist of the ... architectural design and development of applied systems and software services. Additional ...

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Mainframe Architect information

See California salary details

$9

$59

$76

How much do mainframe architect jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for mainframe architect in California is $59.43, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $58.61 and $68.08 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.
What job categories do people searching Mainframe Architect jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Mainframe Architect jobs in California are:
Infographic showing various Mainframe Architect job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $123,623 per year, or $59.4 per hour.

Ingenium Architect Mainfrrame

Central Business Solutions

Newark, CA • On-site, Remote

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago


Job description

Ingenium Architect
  • Analyze Business requirements and develop solutions in Ingenium software.
  • Customize Ingenium applications as per client business requirements.
  • Analyze and propose improvements to the existing business processes of Ingenium 5.5 and Ingenium 6.3.
  • Working individually and/or coordinating development as part of a team.
  • Coordinate with systems analysts, engineers, programmers, and others to design system and to obtain information on project limitations and capabilities, performance requirements and interfaces.
  • Analyze business needs and Ingenium software requirements to determine feasibility of design within time and cost constraints.
  • Consult with customers about Ingenium software system design.
  • Skills - Ingenium (Expert level), Insurance (preferred annuity and/or life), Mainframe - COBOL, JCL, DB2 (must have), CICS, Mantis (Good to have)
  • Analyze code and provide fixes in case of high priority issues.
  • Design/develop code for Ingenium business functionalities.