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Mainframe Architect Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Sonsoft Inc

Mainframe Architect

Milwaukee, WI

Experience in defining new architectures and ability to drive an independent project from an architectural stand point.. * Experience in Insurance domain. Qualifications * Bachelor's degree or ...

Sonsoft Inc

Mainframe Architect

Milwaukee, WI

Automation scripting frameworks Experience in defining new architectures and ability to drive an independent project from an architectural stand point Analytical skills Experience in Insurance domain.

USM

Mainframe Solution Architect

Arlington, TX

Mainframe Solution Architect Arlington, TX 80 hours Description: * Technical expert required to develop Data Center (DC) design requirements for Mainframe computing systems with consideration to two ...

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How much do mainframe architect jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 21, 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.

How much do mainframe architects make?

Mainframe architects typically earn between $100,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Senior roles with specialized skills in COBOL, JCL, and mainframe security can command higher salaries, often exceeding $160,000.

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 does a mainframe architect do?

A mainframe architect designs, develops, and maintains large-scale mainframe computing systems used by organizations for critical applications. They analyze business requirements, create system architecture, and ensure the stability, security, and efficiency of mainframe environments, often working with tools like COBOL, JCL, and z/OS. Strong knowledge of system integration, security protocols, and relevant certifications are typically required.

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.

Can AI replace mainframe?

Mainframe architects design and oversee large-scale enterprise systems that often rely on legacy technology. While AI can automate certain tasks and improve efficiency, it is unlikely to fully replace mainframes due to their critical role in handling high-volume, secure, and reliable processing environments. Instead, AI is typically integrated to enhance mainframe operations and modernization efforts.

Are mainframe jobs in demand?

Mainframe Architect roles are in demand due to the continued reliance of large organizations on legacy systems for critical operations. These jobs require expertise in mainframe technologies, such as COBOL and z/OS, and often offer stable employment opportunities, especially in finance, government, and insurance sectors.

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
Infographic showing various Mainframe Architect job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $125,263 per year, or $60.2 per hour.
Mainframe Application Technical Architect

Mainframe Application Technical Architect

Merican

Raleigh, NC • On-site

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Mainframe Application Technical Architect
Location: Raleigh, NC (Hybrid)
Job Type: Contract
Job Summary
We are seeking an experienced Mainframe Application Technical Architect to support the maintenance, modernization, and enhancement of enterprise mainframe applications. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience with COBOL, CICS, VSAM, JCL, and legacy system modernization, including data cleansing and migration to Oracle-based platforms.
This role involves working closely with technical and business teams to maintain critical financial and reporting systems, support interface applications, and drive legacy modernization initiatives through data conversion and system integration.
Key Responsibilities
  • Design, implement, maintain, and optimize enterprise mainframe applications and systems.
  • Support legacy application modernization initiatives, including data cleansing, transformation, and migration to Oracle databases.
  • Maintain and enhance financial, reporting, and interface systems running on the mainframe.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional technical teams to ensure seamless integration between mainframe and modern enterprise applications.
  • Analyze, troubleshoot, and resolve complex production issues while implementing preventive measures.
  • Perform application analysis, feasibility assessments, and solution design for modernization projects.
  • Support mainframe logic analysis, application decommissioning, and legacy system transitions.
  • Document technical processes, system architecture, and implementation details.
  • Work closely with business stakeholders to understand data requirements and ensure accurate legacy data conversion.
Required Qualifications
  • 10+ years of hands-on experience with COBOL.
  • 10+ years of experience with CICS.
  • 10+ years of experience with VSAM files and relational databases.
  • 10+ years of experience with JCL.
  • 10+ years of experience migrating or converting data from mainframe applications to Oracle or SQL-based systems.
  • Strong knowledge of VSAM and hierarchical database structures.
  • Experience delivering technology projects, including feasibility analysis, compatibility assessments, and solution design.
  • Experience performing mainframe application analysis and decommissioning.
  • Excellent analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills.
  • Strong communication and collaboration skills.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience engaging business and technical stakeholders during legacy data cleansing and migration projects.
  • Knowledge of financial, reporting, or benefit payment applications.
  • Strong organizational and documentation skills.
  • Experience supporting enterprise modernization initiatives and legacy system transformations.
Work Arrangement
  • Hybrid work schedule with a combination of onsite and remote work.
  • Candidates should be able to report onsite on a regular basis as required by project needs.
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About Merican

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Merican is a IT Service consulting firm, specialized in Digital adoption and Business automation. With our diverse collection of skilled and committed consultants, technology companies, businesses and digital experts, we provide our subject expertise and our unique client service approach, a best-in-class global model of delivery suited to the business demands of our clients. We ensure that we implement future-oriented solutions for our clients via investments in people, solutions, technologies, competencies and infrastructure.

Industry

It services

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

Columbia , MD, US

Year founded

2020

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