1

Mainframe Operations Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Mainframe SRE

Upper Marlboro, MD · On-site

$48.50 - $62.50/hr

Anivas Tech is seeking a Mainframe SRE to support our government agency IT operations. We are looking for a skilled professional with 3+ years of relevant experience who brings strong technical ...

Mainframe Computer Operator

Washington, DC

$55.25 - $71/hr

The operators will be responsible for running and monitoring mainframe print operations, supporting job scheduling, and assisting Production Control staff to ensure timely and accurate completion of ...

Conceptual understanding of Mainframe Operations. * Project management skills. Everforth Apex is a ... world-class IT services company that serves thousands of clients across the globe. When you join ...

Showing results 21-40

Mainframe Operations information

See salary details

$10

$53

$72

How much do mainframe operations jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for mainframe operations 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 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.
More about Mainframe Operations jobs

What cities are hiring for Mainframe Operations jobs?

Cities with the most Mainframe Operations job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Mainframe Operations jobs?

The most popular types of Mainframe Operations jobs are:

What states have the most Mainframe Operations jobs?

States with the most job openings for Mainframe Operations jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Mainframe Operations jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Mainframe Operations jobs are:

Infographic showing various Mainframe Operations job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $111,026 per year, or $53.4 per hour.

Mainframe Secret Security Admin - Remote

GDR Defense

Austin, TX • On-site

Contractor

Re-posted 9 days ago


Job description

Submission Due: 01/21/2026
Location - Remote, US
Duration - 7 months

I. DESCRIPTION OF SERVICES
The client requires the services of 1 Mainframe Top Secret Security Administrator, hereafter referred to as Candidate(s), who meets the general qualifications of a Legacy Level 3 Software Engineer, and the specifications outlined in this document for the client.
All work products resulting from the project shall be considered "works made for hire " and are the property of the Railroad Commission of Texas and may include pre-selection requirements that potential Vendors (and their Candidates) submit to and satisfy criminal background checks as authorized by Texas law. The Client will pay no fees for interviews or discussions, which occur during the process of selecting a Candidate(s).
? Serve as a subject-matter expert in Mainframe Top Secret Security Administration to maintain data security and regulatory compliance.
? Work involves highly advanced (senior-level) systems administration in support of agency mainframe applications and supporting infrastructure; and coordinate day-to-day system administration functions such as mainframe configuration, break/fix system support, and base user account creation/support.
? Work requires strong and proven hands-on experience in Mainframe Top Secret Security Administration and z/OS Administration.
? Work also requires expertise in certificate renewals and access control within mainframe environments as well as a strong understanding of security compliance, audit practices, and risk mitigation.
? Routine system administration functions to include security administration support, performance monitoring, security monitoring, and system maintenance.
? Work includes supporting data entry and control work processes, overseeing and coordinating mainframe operations in the State's Consolidated Data Center Services (DCS), and working with the Network Administration, Customer Support and Applications Development & Support teams to provide support necessary for day-to-day mainframe operations.
? Experience with Informatica Power Exchange Administration for Change Data Capture processing using mainframe data sources and targets (i.e., IMS and VSAM) a plus.
The Worker will apply their expert knowledge and experience as a Mainframe Top Secret Security Administrator to support both the needs of the Legacy Systems as well as those for the Mainframe Transformation Team.
WORKER SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS
? Serve as a subject-matter expert in Mainframe Top Secret Security Administration to maintain data security and regulatory compliance.
? Provide primary support as the subject matter expert for z/OS operating systems and system components; provide direct technical support as needed in the planning, implementation and testing of releases, upgrades, or changes to z/OS operating system, network, and component software.
? Provide end user support for assigned Independent Software Vendor (ISV) products such as BlueZone.
? Diagnose platform, software and related product issues and follow up with root cause analysis.
? Assist with maintaining and providing technical support for Mainframe Production Control and Support Jobs and monthly Mainframe Job Scheduler.
II. CANDIDATE SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONSMinimum Requirements:
Candidates that do not meet or exceed the minimum stated requirements (skills/experience) will be displayed to customers but may not be chosen for this opportunity. Years Required/Preferred Experience 8 Required Hands-On Experience with TSS (Top Secret Security) 5 Required Hands-On Experience with z/OS Administration 5 Required Experience with JES2, z/OS Unix System Services (OMVS),
Storage Management Subsystem (SMS) 3 Required Experience with TLS configuration (certificates, SSL ? RSA Keys, SFTP, FTPS) 2 Preferred Experience with REXX 3 Preferred Experience with performance monitoring to include initial analysis of performance issues 3 Preferred Experience with Informatica Power Exchange Administration 3 Preferred Working knowledge for each of the following:
? z/OS Operation
? z/OS Networking ? VTAM (Virtual Telecommunications
Access Method), TCP/IP (Transmission Control
Protocol/Internet Protocol)
? z/OS-centric automated job scheduling and
management software (JOBTRAC)
? Terminal Emulator Software (BLUEZONE)
? VTAM Session Manager Software (VTAM/SWITCH)
? SMP/E (System Modification Program/Extended)
? RMF (Resource Measurement Facility)
? SMF (System Management Facility)
? WLM (Workload Management)
? JCL (Job Control Language)
? GRS (Global Resource Serialization)
? VSAM (Virtual Storage Access Method)
? TSO (Time Sharing Option)