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Mainframe Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Mainframe Engineer

Plano, TX · 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 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 ...

Mainframe Engineer

Dearborn, MI

$45 - $58/hr

Stefanini is looking for a Mainframe Engineer, Dearborn, MI (Onsite) For quick apply, please reach out Saurabh Kapoor at 248-582-6559/saurabh.kapoor@stefanini.com Looking for someone who is ...

Mainframe Engineer - IBM

Jacksonville, FL · On-site

$45.25 - $58.25/hr

Kavaliro is looking for a Mainframe Engineer to join our Jacksonville-based client's team. This position will focus on implementing and managing IBM mainframe server hardware and software for on ...

Mainframe Engineer

Dearborn, MI · On-site

$65 - $70/hr

Stefanini is looking for a Mainframe Engineer, Dearborn, MI (Onsite) For quick apply, please reach out Saurabh Kapoor at 248-582-6559/saurabh.kapoor@stefanini.com Looking for someone who is ...

Mainframe Engineer

Dearborn, MI

$45 - $58/hr

Stefanini is looking for a Mainframe Engineer, Dearborn, MI (Onsite) For quick apply, please reach out Saurabh Kapoor at 248-582-6559/saurabh.kapoor@stefanini.com Looking for someone who is ...

Mainframe Engineer

Dearborn, MI

$45 - $58/hr

Stefanini is looking for a Mainframe Engineer, Dearborn, MI (Onsite) For quick apply, please reach out Saurabh Kapoor at 248-582-6559/saurabh.kapoor@stefanini.com Looking for someone who is ...

Mainframe Engineer

Westlake, TX · On-site

$55 - $60/hr

Onsite in Westlake, TX Our client seeks a Mainframe Engineer to develop and maintain high-volume, business-critical money movement platforms within brokerage record-keeping technology. You will ...

Mainframe Engineer with AI

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

$45.75 - $58.75/hr

Mainframe Engineer with AI Work Location: Pittsburgh, PA (Onsite) Duration: Long Term Contract Responsibilities: * Design, develop and implement applications for large scale Mainframe database ...

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Mainframe Engineer information

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$10

$53

$72

How much do mainframe engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 10, 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.

Are mainframe engineers in demand?

Mainframe engineers are in steady demand due to the continued reliance of large organizations on mainframe systems for critical operations. Skills in COBOL, JCL, and mainframe security are highly valued, and many companies seek experienced professionals to maintain and modernize legacy systems.

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.

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.

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, and why are they important?

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 do mainframe engineers do?

Mainframe engineers design, develop, and maintain large-scale computer systems used by organizations for critical applications. They work with mainframe hardware, operating systems like z/OS, and programming languages such as COBOL and PL/I, often ensuring system security, performance, and reliability. These roles typically require knowledge of system administration, troubleshooting, and sometimes certifications in mainframe technologies.

Can mainframe be replaced by AI?

Mainframe engineers work with large-scale, legacy computing systems that handle critical enterprise data. While AI can automate certain tasks like data analysis and system monitoring, it does not currently replace the core functions of mainframes or the specialized skills of mainframe engineers. Instead, AI is often integrated to enhance mainframe operations and improve efficiency.
More about Mainframe Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Mainframe Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Mainframe Engineer job openings:
What states have the most Mainframe Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Mainframe Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Mainframe Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Mainframe Engineer jobs are:
Infographic showing various Mainframe Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $111,026 per year, or $53.4 per hour.
Mainframe Engineer

Mainframe Engineer

Ampcus Inc

Plano, TX • On-site

$47.25 - $60.75/hr

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

Job Summary:
Ampcus Inc. is a certified global provider of a broad range of Technology and Business consulting services. 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.
Responsibilities:
• Executes software solutions, design, development, and technical troubleshooting.
• Creates secure and high-quality production code.
• Produces architecture and design artifacts for complex applications.
• Gathers, analyzes, synthesizes, and develops visualizations and reporting from large, diverse data sets.
• Proactively identifies hidden problems and patterns in data.
• Contributes to software engineering communities of practice and events.
• Adds to team culture of diversity, equity, inclusion, and respect.
Qualifications:
Required:
• Formal training or certification on software engineering concepts and 3 years applied experience.
• Hands-on practical experience in system design, application development, testing, and operational stability.
• Proficient in coding in one or more languages (e.g., Mainframe technologies - COBOL, CICS, VSAM, DB2 along with messaging MQ).
• Experience in developing, debugging, and maintaining code in a large corporate environment with one or more modern programming languages and database querying languages.
• Overall knowledge of the Software Development Life Cycle.
• Solid understanding of agile methodologies such as CI/CD, Applicant Resiliency, and Security.
• Demonstrated knowledge of software applications and technical processes within a technical discipline (e.g., cloud, artificial intelligence, machine learning, mobile, etc.).
• Knowledge in scheduling tool CA-7.
• Knowledge of version and revision control practices and procedures, using Endeavor.
Preferred:
• Knowledge in Mainframe utilities, such as File-Aid, Expeditor, SORT, REXX, and SAS is a plus.
• Knowledge in CICS web services and Rest API is a plus.
• Knowledge and exposure to one or more multiple languages: Python, Java, Unix Shell Scripting & Oracle is a Plus.
• Exposure to cloud technologies.
Company:
Ampcus is a global business, technology consulting and an staff augmentation firm specializing in AI/ML,digital solutions, Cybersecurity & Risk management, Testing, Forensics & Fraud services and human capital management. Founded in 2004, the company is headquartered in Chantilly, USA, with a team of 1001-5000 employees. The company is currently Late Stage.

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About Ampcus

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Ampcus Inc. is a ISO 20000, ISO 27000, ISO 9001, CMMI DEV/3 SM and CMMI SVC/3 SM certified global provider of a broad range of Technology and Business consulting services. From strategy to execution, our disciplined yet flexible approach starts and ends with our clients. By listening hard and working harder, client goals become our goals. Their success is our satisfaction. It’s why our clients sleep well at night. We believe that the success of an engagement is determined by strong project management, as well as clear communication and mutual commitment working collaboratively. Our methodology begins with listening to the customer about their needs, then working with their team to gain a clear understanding of the requirements, while providing knowledge transfer of best practices for the organization.

Industry

It services

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Chantilly, VA, US

Year founded

2004