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Mainframe Operations Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Mainframe Developer

Merrifield, VA · On-site

$49 - $62.75/hr

Mainframe Developer Location: Merrifield, VA Duration: 6-12 Month+ Contract Role Overview This ... Investigate operational, technical, and business problems; analyze requirements; and recommend ...

Mainframe Developer

Merrifield, VA · On-site

$49 - $62.75/hr

Mainframe Developer Location: Merrifield, VA (3 days' on-site required) Duration: 6-12 Month ... Investigate operational, technical, and business problems; analyze requirements; and recommend ...

Mainframe z/OS System Programmer

Columbia, MD · Remote

$56.25 - $71.75/hr

Role: Mainframe z/OS System Programmer Location: Remote Duration: 12+ Months Contract Task ... Executes regulatory and operational control activities related to user provisioning, de ...

Senior Mainframe Developer (COBOL) Location: Primarily Remote Onsite Expectations: Monthly travel ... Experience with DevOps / CI-CD pipelines * Healthcare domain experience (especially working with ...

Desktop Support Analyst

Washington, DC · On-site

$26.25 - $35.50/hr

... Mainframe monitoring or operations support. 3. Excellent written and oral communications are required as this position will interface with clients via phone and e-mail. Demonstrated ability to ...

Investigate operational, technical, and business problems, analyze requirements, and recommend reliable automation solutions. * Troubleshoot complex automation, system, application, and ...

Investigate operational, technical, and business problems, analyze requirements, and recommend reliable automation solutions. * Troubleshoot complex automation, system, application, and ...

New

Investigate operational, technical, and business problems, analyze requirements, and recommend reliable automation solutions. * Troubleshoot complex automation, system, application, and ...

Investigate operational, technical, and business problems related to mainframe systems, analyzing requirements and recommending automation solutions. * Communicate complex system and automation ...

Showing results 21-40

Mainframe Operations information

See Washington salary details

$11

$60

$81

How much do mainframe operations jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for mainframe operations in Washington is $60.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53.37 and $68.61 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is mainframe operations?

Mainframe operations refer to the processes and tasks involved in managing, monitoring, and maintaining mainframe computer systems. These systems are powerful computers used by large organizations for critical applications, bulk data processing, and large-scale transaction processing. Mainframe operators ensure system reliability, perform backups, monitor performance, troubleshoot issues, and coordinate with IT teams to support business operations. Their work is essential to keeping core business systems running smoothly and securely.

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

To thrive in Mainframe Operations, you need expertise in mainframe system administration, strong problem-solving skills, and a background in IT or computer science. Familiarity with IBM z/OS, JCL (Job Control Language), automation tools, and monitoring systems is typically required, along with certifications like IBM Certified System Programmer. Attention to detail, strong communication, and the ability to work under pressure help professionals quickly resolve incidents and coordinate with teams. These skills are essential to ensure the reliability, security, and optimal performance of critical enterprise computing environments.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in mainframe operations, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Mainframe Operations often encounter challenges such as managing legacy systems, ensuring 24/7 uptime, and swiftly resolving system outages. Staying up to date with new automation tools and best practices can help address these challenges. Additionally, effective communication with application teams and constant monitoring are key to minimizing downtime and ensuring smooth operations. Continuous learning and participation in cross-training sessions can also help team members stay proficient as technologies evolve.

What is the difference between Mainframe Operations vs Mainframe System Programmer?

AspectMainframe OperationsMainframe System Programmer
Primary ResponsibilitiesMonitoring, maintaining, and supporting mainframe systems to ensure smooth operationInstalling, configuring, and optimizing mainframe system software and operating systems
Required SkillsKnowledge of mainframe hardware, job scheduling, and system monitoring toolsExpertise in system software, scripting, and system tuning
CertificationsIBM Certified System Administrator, z/OS certificationsIBM Certified System Programmer, z/OS certifications
Work EnvironmentData centers, mainframe rooms, enterprise IT departmentsData centers, enterprise IT teams, mainframe software support

Both roles are essential in mainframe environments, with Mainframe Operations focusing on system support and monitoring, while Mainframe System Programmers handle system software installation and optimization. They often collaborate but require different skill sets and certifications.

Are mainframe operations jobs in demand?

Mainframe operations jobs remain in demand due to the continued reliance of large organizations on mainframe systems for critical data processing. These roles often require knowledge of legacy systems, scripting, and tools like IBM Z, with demand driven by industries such as finance, government, and healthcare that prioritize system stability and security.

Is mainframe operations hard to learn?

Mainframe operations can be complex due to the specialized systems, programming languages, and tools involved, but with proper training and experience, it is learnable. Many professionals start with foundational skills in operating systems like z/OS and gain certifications to improve their understanding.

What are popular job titles related to Mainframe Operations jobs in Washington?

For Mainframe Operations jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Mainframe Operations job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 3% Temporary, 6% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $125,748 per year, or $60.5 per hour.

Mainframe infrastructure engineering

Astre Consulting Services Inc

Mclean, VA • Remote

$50.25 - $64.50/hr

Contractor

Re-posted yesterday


Job description

Looking for a mainframe systems programmer (sysprog) who will be the system administrator for enterprise-level computers.


Responsibility:

  • Install, customize, and maintain mainframe operating systems (like IBM z/OS).
  • Sysprogs also tune performance, manage hardware, and apply software updates using specialized tools.
  • Experience in tools like SMP/E or JCL
  • Technical Lead for Mainframe Platform (z/OS, Dell Storage, IMS, DB2, RACF, CA JobTrac) to govern operations, changes and sustainability upgrade projects.
  • Requires detailed knowledge of z/OS, IMS and DB2 subsystems and RACF security services.