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Mainframe Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

eTeam Inc.

Mainframe Programmer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

Mainframe Programmer Job Role: Mainframe Programmer Duration: 6 months with possible extension Location: Irving, TX, Chicago, IL, Charlotte, NC, Milwaukee, WI 53005, Atlanta, GA, New York, NY ...

Deloitte

Mainframe Developer

Fresno, CA · Hybrid

$48.75 - $62.50/hr

As an experienced Mainframe Developer ,you will have the ability to share new ideas and collaborate on projects as a consultant without the extensive demands of travel. The Project Delivery Talent ...

Deloitte

Mainframe Developer

San Jose, CA · Hybrid

$57.50 - $73.75/hr

As an experienced Mainframe Developer ,you will have the ability to share new ideas and collaborate on projects as a consultant without the extensive demands of travel. The Project Delivery Talent ...

Deloitte

Mainframe Developer

San Francisco, CA · Hybrid

$57.75 - $74.25/hr

As an experienced Mainframe Developer ,you will have the ability to share new ideas and collaborate on projects as a consultant without the extensive demands of travel. The Project Delivery Talent ...

Deloitte

Mainframe Developer

Costa Mesa, CA · Hybrid

$52.50 - $67.50/hr

As an experienced Mainframe Developer ,you will have the ability to share new ideas and collaborate on projects as a consultant without the extensive demands of travel. The Project Delivery Talent ...

Deloitte

Mainframe Developer

Sacramento, CA · Hybrid

$52.25 - $67.25/hr

As an experienced Mainframe Developer ,you will have the ability to share new ideas and collaborate on projects as a consultant without the extensive demands of travel. The Project Delivery Talent ...

WATI

Sr Mainframe Systems Programmer

Downey, CA · On-site

$56.75 - $72.25/hr

Sr Mainframe Systems Programmer Location: Downey, CA, 90242 Duration: 12 Months Position Description A Mainframe Systems Programmer/DBA is responsible for leading and/or supporting the most complex ...

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Mainframe Operator information

See California salary details

$9

$52

$71

How much do mainframe operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for mainframe operator in California is $52.68, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46.49 and $59.81 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the salary of mainframe system operator?

The salary of a mainframe operator typically ranges from $50,000 to $85,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Experienced operators with specialized skills in mainframe environments and tools like z/OS can earn higher salaries, especially in large organizations or tech hubs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Mainframe Operator position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Mainframe Operator, you need a solid understanding of mainframe systems operations, batch processing, and problem-solving, often supported by an associate degree in IT or related experience. Familiarity with operating systems such as z/OS, job scheduling tools like CA-7 or Control-M, and knowledge of system monitoring utilities are typical requirements, with relevant certifications like IBM Mainframe Operator being a plus. Strong attention to detail, adaptability under pressure, and effective communication help operators excel in coordinating tasks and responding to issues. These skills ensure smooth, reliable mainframe operations that are critical for supporting core business functions.

Can mainframe be replaced by AI?

Mainframe operators manage large-scale, critical computing systems that require high reliability and security. While AI can automate certain tasks like monitoring and troubleshooting, it is unlikely to fully replace mainframe operators due to the complexity and specialized knowledge needed to maintain these systems. Human oversight remains essential for ensuring system stability and addressing unique issues.

What does a typical work shift look like for a Mainframe Operator?

A typical work shift for a Mainframe Operator can involve monitoring system performance, executing scheduled jobs, troubleshooting unexpected errors, and resolving user-reported issues. Many organizations operate their mainframes 24/7, so you may be expected to work evening, night, or weekend shifts as part of a rotating team. Collaboration with network administrators, systems programmers, and technical support staff is common to ensure system reliability and quick issue resolution. Throughout your shift, you'll need to document incidents and maintain communication logs for seamless transitions between shifts. This environment requires reliability, alertness, and a proactive approach to keeping core business processes running smoothly.

What does a mainframe operator do?

A mainframe operator manages and monitors large-scale computer systems known as mainframes, ensuring their smooth operation, performing routine maintenance, and troubleshooting issues. They often work with specialized software, follow strict procedures, and may need certifications in computer operations or related fields.

Is mainframe a good career option?

Mainframe operators manage large-scale computer systems used by many organizations for critical data processing. The role requires technical skills, knowledge of mainframe environments, and often certifications like IBM Certified System Administrator. It can be a stable career with opportunities in finance, government, and large enterprises, though the industry is gradually evolving with new technologies.

What is a Mainframe Operator job?

A Mainframe Operator monitors and controls mainframe computer systems, ensuring they run efficiently and without issues. They oversee batch processing, troubleshoot system errors, manage job scheduling, and perform routine maintenance. Their role is critical in maintaining uptime and performance for large-scale business operations. They also collaborate with IT teams to address system failures and optimize processes.

What are the most commonly searched types of Mainframe Operator jobs in California? The most popular types of Mainframe Operator jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Mainframe Operator jobs in California? For Mainframe Operator jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Mainframe Operator jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Mainframe Operator jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Mainframe Operator jobs? Cities in California with the most Mainframe Operator job openings:
Mainframe Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Mainframe Operator job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 48% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 46% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $109,572 per year, or $52.7 per hour.
Mainframe Onsite Lead

Mainframe Onsite Lead

Ruri Software Technologies LLC

San Bernardino, CA • On-site

$50.25 - $64.75/hr

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Job Title:- Mainframe Onsite Lead
Duration:- 8+ months
Location:- Onsite: 301 S. Tippecanoe Ave. San Bernardino, CA 92408
Job description/responsibilities:
- Understand requirements from specifications from Business Analyst & end-users
- Responsible for Several Iterations of Coding, Compilation, Application Build and Unit testing, and delivery of Assigned Modules
- Assist Post-delivery support and troubleshoot the current Mainframe environment
- Interact with other modules owners of the team for related program modules
- Enhance and main the existing mainframe applications.
- Should be able to independently analyze, design, debug, test, develop, and deploy changes in production.
- Should be able to manage the end-to-end service delivery for the Application Support team including 2 members Offshore team.
- Should be able to clearly understand the requirement and communicate with customer IT and business team.
Must have - Prior knowledge in Retail store system maintenance (Store Orders, Replenishment, Price Changes, etc.)
Nice to have - Knowledge in Distributed applications like Oracle SQL, Talend, B2Bi, Core FTP, etc.
Operational Services
i. Application Monitoring and Pager duties
ii. Batch Monitoring, and Ticketing tool monitoring
iii. Production System Upgrades support
iv. Month end/Year end activities
v. Holiday readiness and reporting
Top 3 skills:
1. Mainframe, COBOL, JCL, VSAM, Mainframe Coding using COBOL, CICS
2. Experience in product support engagements
3. Excellent communication skills

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