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Mainframe Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Ensono

Mainframe Security Engineer

Downers Grove, IL · On-site

Employee The primary role of the Mainframe System Security Engineer is to create, modify and maintain security access on internal and external userids and security rules access for mainframe systems.

Staffingine LLC

Tandem Developer

Rolling Meadows, IL · On-site

$49.25 - $63.25/hr

Tandem Developer Job Location: Rolling Meadows,IL Job Type: Contract Technical Skills: * Strong ... CICS,JCL,Mainframe Enterprise Cobol,Mainframe DB2,Z/OS,CICS Admin,Mainframe - COBOL/JCL/CICS ...

DSNSearch

CICS/MQ Systems Programmer

Chicago, IL · Remote

$56.75 - $72/hr

CICS /MQ MAINFRAME SYSTEMS PROGRAMMER CICS ~~ MQ ~~ Z/OS MAINFRAME SYSTEMS ~~ SMP/E ~~ JES 2 ~~ CICSPLEX ~~ INFRASTRUCTURE REMOTE !!~~ REMOTE!! ~~~~FULL TIME WITH BENEFITS/ANNUAL BONUS OPPORTUNITY~

Broadcom

Support Engineer - Mainframe

Lisle, IL · On-site

This position is responsible for providing mainframe technical support for the Endevor/Zowe ... Engineers are expected to deliver a superior customer experience by exhibiting our core principles ...

Broadcom

R&D Engineer Software 3

Lisle, IL · On-site

Broadcom's Mainframe Software Division (MSD) is looking for a talented and motivated Software Engineer with a passion for building high-quality applications using agile practices to join our ...

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All JobsMainframe Engineer JobsMainframe Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Mainframe Engineer information

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$10

$54

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How much do mainframe engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for mainframe engineer in Chicago, IL is $54.99, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48.56 and $62.40 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.

What are popular job titles related to Mainframe Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Mainframe Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Mainframe Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Mainframe Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Mainframe Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Mainframe Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $114,373 per year, or $55 per hour.

Mainframe Security Engineer

Ensono

Downers Grove, IL • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago

Job description

Worker Type:

EmployeeThe primary role of the Mainframe System Security Engineer is to create, modify and maintain security access on internal and external userids and security rules access for mainframe systems. All three security products, ACF2, Top Secret and RACF are utilized for supporting mainframe system access. In addition, they will review security policies, procedures, standards, baselines and may recommend and coordinate security remediation plans involving the implementation of security solutions, both technology and procedures; while maintaining an understanding of security standards, policies and procedures.

Requirements:

Basic Knowledge of Security and good security best practices

  • Hands-on administration of RACF, ACF2 and Top Secret login ID's, dataset and resource rules.
  • Monitor system security policy and violations/incidents
  • Perform and review daily, weekly, and monthly audit reports
  • Liaison with business areas and other technical support areas
  • Provide customer support by preparing ad hoc reports and giving presentations
  • Monitors the environment for adherence to security standards
  • Must be available 24 x7
  • Experience using IBM zSecure security products
  • Experience with REXX or any programming language is a plus
  • iSeries security knowledge a plus

Technical Skills:

  • Excellent TSO, JCL, IBM UTILITIES, JES2, and ISPF a must
  • Experience with CICS preferred
  • Experience using Vanguard security products is desired

General Knowledge:

  • Some MVS experience is a plus
  • PC Skills (Microsoft Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint)


Personal Skills:

  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple concurrent project deliverables and the ability to work as a global team.
  • Ability to work on own initiatives.
  • Strong analytical skills and problem solving skills
  • Must be an excellent team player with the ability to work independently in a fast paced environment
  • Self starter, detailed oriented and ability to multi task
  • Excellent Communication skills required
  • Good written skills are required


Education:

  • CISSP, CISA, CISM or ITIL Certification a plus
  • Bachelors or Masters Degree Preferred
  • Other mainframe security products a plus

Primary Location City/State:

Downers Grove, IL - Finley, Illinois

Additional Locations (if applicable):

Homebased - Downers Grove, IL - Finley

Ensono is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. Ensono provides equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, sex, marital status, pregnancy, age, disability, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran status, military status, or any other status protected by applicable law.

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About Ensono

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Ensono, our **Purpose is to be a relentless ally, disrupting the status quo and unleashing our clients to** **_Do Great Things!_** We enable our clients to achieve key business outcomes that reshape how our world runs. As an expert technology adviser and managed service provider with cross-platform certifications, Ensono empowers our clients to keep up with continuous change and embrace innovation.

Industry

It services

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Downers Grove, IL, US

Year founded

1969

Social media

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