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Mainframe Architect Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Alkaeus

Mainframe Performance Analyst

Boston, MA · On-site

Merrimack, NH or Boston, MA Length: 12-month contract Technical & Professional Skills · Mainframe Architecture: Deep understanding of IBM constructs (LPARs, SYSPLEX, CECs, regions, address spaces ...

CYNET SYSTEMS

Lead Mainframe Developer

Holmdel, NJ · On-site

$50 - $55/hr

Strong understanding of mainframe architecture and technologies. * Experience in designing and developing mainframe applications. * Ability to troubleshoot and resolve technical issues promptly.

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How much do mainframe architect jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 8, 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, and why are they important?

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.

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 are Mainframe Architects?

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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Mainframe Architect jobs near you

Mainframe Rehost Architect / Specialist / Rocket/Micro Focus

Purple Drive Technologies

Washington, DC • On-site

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

Overview:
Role: Developer
Skills: Mainframe Rehost Architect / Specialist / Rocket/Micro Focus Exp
Exp: Exp: 8 - 10 Years
  • Strong experience in mainframe rehosting using emulation platforms such as Rocket (formerly Micro Focus) Enterprise Developer and Enterprise Server.
  • Proficiency in COBOL, CICS, JCL, DB2, VSAM.
  • Knowledge of cloud-native infrastructure, preferably Azure cloud platform.
  • Strong understanding of workload sizing (MIPS), feasibility analysis, and modernization strategies.
  • Familiarity with DevOps enablement, CI/CD pipeline setup, and infrastructure provisioning.
  • Excellent skills in code conversion, interface migration, and testing strategies (unit, regression, performance).
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities with experience in POC and assessment phases.
  • Architect and configure emulation platforms (Rocket/Micro Focus) for mainframe rehosting.
  • Design rehost strategies for COBOL, CICS, JCL, DB2, and VSAM applications.
  • Collaborate with cloud teams to deploy rehosted workloads on cloud-native infrastructure.
  • Lead assessment and POC phases, including inventory analysis, workload sizing (MIPS), and feasibility studies.
  • Guide development teams on code conversion, interface migration, and test strategy definition.
  • Enable DevOps practices, including infrastructure provisioning and CI/CD setup for rehosted applications.

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