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Mainframe Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Mainframe Engineer

Buffalo, NY ยท On-site

$47.50 - $61/hr

Key Responsibilities: * 100% Hands-on Mainframe programming * End-to-end solution architecture and design * Collaborate closely with business analysts to translate business requirements into ...

Mainframe Engineer

Wilmington, DE ยท On-site

$47.50 - $61/hr

Mainframe Engineer Interview : 2 rounds of Interview Work Mode : 5 DAYS Work from office Skills : COBOL, IMSDB, IMSDC Location : Wilmington, DE Required Skills: * Programming Languages: Strong ...

Mainframe Engineer

Somerset, NJ ยท On-site

$49.25 - $63.25/hr

NAVA Software solutions is looking for a Mainframe Engineer Details: Mainframe Engineer Location: Somerset, NJ - Remote to start Duration: 6 months CTH What You Will Do: * Legacy application ...

Mainframe Engineer

Livingston, NJ ยท On-site

$53.50 - $68.75/hr

Company Description This position is a critical member of the Mainframe Engineering team. The primary function is supporting the z/OS platform that hosts 6 LPARs, 10 DB2 subsystems, 11 CICS Regions ...

Mainframe Engineer

Boiling Springs, PA ยท On-site

$47.50 - $61/hr

  • Medical

As a Mainframe Engineer will play a key role in developing, maintaining, and optimizing mission-critical mainframe applications supporting the University of Maryland's operational and research ...

Mainframe Engineer

Livingston, NJ ยท On-site

$53.50 - $68.75/hr

This position is a critical member of the Mainframe Engineering team. The primary function is supporting the z/OS platform that hosts 6 LPARs, 10 DB2 subsystems, 11 CICS Regions across 3 different ...

Mainframe Engineer

Mclean, VA ยท On-site

$49.50 - $63.75/hr

The Mainframe engineers responsibilities include: Technical Lead for Mainframe Platform (z/OS| Dell Storage| IMS| DB2| RACF| CA JobTrac) to govern operations| changes and sustainability upgrade ...

Mainframe Engineer

Jersey City, NJ ยท On-site

$51.25 - $65.75/hr

The Brokerage Record Technology Tax Engineering team within Fidelity Wealth Technology is looking for a passionate and experienced Senior Mainframe Software Engineer to help design, enhance, and ...

Mainframe Engineer

Jersey City, NJ ยท On-site

$51.25 - $65.75/hr

Mainframe Engineer Location : Jersey City, NJ Job Type: W-2/Full Time Mandatory Skills - Cobol , DB2 , JCL . the candidate needs to be really good in DB2 as it involves a lot of DB work. Sector:

Mainframe Engineer

Dublin, OH ยท On-site

$50 - $60/hr

Our client is currently seeking a Mainframe Engineer THIS POSITION IS ONSITE 4 DAYS A WEEK. 100% REMOTE WILL NOT BE CONSIDERED. Key Responsibilities * Design, develop, test, and maintain mainframe ...

Mainframe Engineer

Boiling Springs, PA ยท On-site

$47.50 - $61/hr

  • Medical

Health insurance BVA Bears IT Solutions is seeking a Mainframe Engineer This is a full-time, remote role with travel 2 days onsite per week at Riverdale, MD. The average workday is 8 hours and the ...

Mainframe Developer

Morristown, NJ ยท On-site

$50.50 - $64.75/hr

Role: Sr. Mainframe Engineer Location: Morris Plains, NJ , Memphis TN, Somerset NJ, Austin TX, St. Louis MO, Morristown NJ Remote to start - Hybrid from Nov onwards Duration: 6-12 months What You ...

MQ Mainframe Engineer

Alpharetta, GA ยท On-site

$47.75 - $61.50/hr

MQ Mainframe Engineer Alpharetta, GA - 3 days/week onsite 12+ month contract position Description: * Hybrid Role * Interview Process: Likely 2 rounds (detailed and technical) * As a global financial ...

Mainframe Engineer

Plano, TX ยท On-site

$47.25 - $60.75/hr

They are seeking a Mainframe Engineer to execute software solutions and develop high-quality production code while maintaining algorithms and producing design artifacts for complex applications.

Senior Mainframe Engineer

Merrifield, VA ยท Remote

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Senior Mainframe Engineer Location: remote Pay rate: open to W2 and established 1099s Position type: multiyear contract We are currently seeking a Senior Mainframe Programmer/Support Analyst with a ...

Sr. Mainframe Developer

New York, NY ยท On-site

$53.50 - $69/hr

Job Title: Sr. Mainframe Engineer UCMG: West Virginia (Int Eligibility) O&M Onshore: Working with US based Ops, Product and IT Services teams. Overview: * This request is for hiring 2 Sr. Mainframe ...

Mainframe Engineer

Smithfield, RI ยท On-site

$47 - $60.50/hr

HCL Global Systems Inc is seeking a highly motivated Mainframe Senior Software Engineer to join their team. The role involves developing and maintaining critical components in the Transmissions space ...

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Mainframe Engineer information

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How much do mainframe engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for mainframe engineer 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.

What is a mainframe engineer?

A Mainframe Engineer is an IT professional who specializes in maintaining, configuring, and optimizing mainframe computer systems. These engineers ensure the reliability, security, and efficiency of mainframes, which are large, powerful computers used by organizations for critical applications such as banking, government, and large-scale data processing. Their responsibilities include system upgrades, troubleshooting hardware and software issues, performance tuning, and implementing security protocols. Mainframe Engineers often work with legacy systems and must be proficient in mainframe-specific operating systems and languages like COBOL, JCL, and z/OS.

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

To thrive as a Mainframe Engineer, you need strong expertise in mainframe systems (such as IBM z/OS), programming languages like COBOL and JCL, and a relevant degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with tools like TSO/ISPF, DB2, CICS, and industry certifications such as IBM Certified System Programmer are typically expected. Analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication are vital soft skills that help in troubleshooting and collaborating with cross-functional teams. These skills ensure reliable system performance, quick issue resolution, and seamless integration with modern IT environments.

What are some common challenges mainframe engineers face when integrating legacy systems with modern technologies?

Mainframe Engineers often encounter challenges when integrating legacy systems with newer platforms, such as ensuring compatibility, maintaining data integrity, and minimizing downtime during migrations. Navigating differences in programming languages, data formats, and security protocols requires careful planning and strong problem-solving skills. Collaboration with application developers, database administrators, and IT security teams is typically essential to achieve seamless integration and support business continuity.

What is the difference between Mainframe Engineer vs Mainframe Developer?

AspectMainframe EngineerMainframe Developer
Primary RoleMaintains, supports, and optimizes mainframe systems and infrastructureDesigns, codes, and tests mainframe applications and software
Skills & CertificationsKnowledge of mainframe hardware, OS, and system tools; certifications like IBM Certified System AdministratorProficiency in COBOL, JCL, and mainframe programming; similar certifications often applicable
Work EnvironmentSystem support teams, data centers, enterprise IT departmentsDevelopment teams, software projects, application environments
Industry UsageFinancial services, government, large enterprisesFinancial institutions, insurance, large corporations

While both roles work within mainframe environments, Mainframe Engineers focus on maintaining and supporting the infrastructure, whereas Mainframe Developers primarily design and develop mainframe applications. Both roles often require similar certifications and work in related environments, but their core responsibilities differ.

Are mainframe engineers in demand?

Mainframe engineers are in steady demand due to the continued reliance of many large organizations on mainframe systems for critical operations. Skills in COBOL, JCL, and mainframe security are highly valued, and demand remains strong in finance, government, and healthcare sectors that require high reliability and security. However, the overall number of new mainframe roles is limited compared to emerging technologies, but experienced professionals in this field often have good job stability and compensation.

How much does a mainframe engineer make?

Mainframe engineers typically earn between $70,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Senior roles or those with specialized skills in COBOL, JCL, or mainframe security can command higher salaries. Compensation also varies based on the industry and the complexity of the mainframe environment managed.
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Infographic showing various Mainframe Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $111,026 per year, or $53.4 per hour.

Mainframe Engineer

1 point system

Buffalo, NY โ€ข On-site

$47.50 - $61/hr

Contractor

Re-posted 11 days ago


Job description

Key Responsibilities:

  • 100% Hands-on Mainframe programming 
  • End-to-end solution architecture and design
  • Collaborate closely with business analysts to translate business requirements into technical solutions, breaking down complex processes and ensuring functional alignment.
  • Solve complex problems with innovative, out-of-the-box solutions to modernize legacy systems and improve efficiency.
  • Build strong partnerships across teams, ensuring clear communication, organization, and alignment throughout project phases.

Must-Have Requirements:

  • Mainframe programming skills (COBOL, CICS, VSAM, JCL, MQ, CA7, Xpeditor, ISPF) are a must
  • Demonstrate ability to accomplish complex solution design and architecture, development, testing, and deployment within the traditional IBM Mainframe environment.
  • Strong analytical skills with the ability to dive into details, think big-picture, and provide code-centric solutions.