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Mainframe Operator Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Mainframe Architect Location: Richmond, VA (or) McLean, VA (Hybrid - 2 to 3 days a week onsite) Job Type: Contract Skill Metrics: Cobol Mainframe CICS REXX VSAM JCL Years of experience required: 15 ...

Mainframe Engineering

Mclean, VA ยท On-site

$40 - $45/hr

Mainframe Engineering Location : McLean, VA Required Knowledge * z/OS architectures and internals. * zSecure tool and Carla language (customization experience is a plus). * Mainframe security related ...

Mainframe Developer

Mclean, VA ยท On-site

$49.50 - $63.75/hr

Mainframe Developer (Banking Domain) Location: McLean, VA (Onsite, 5 days/week) Note: This position is open to local candidates in McLean, VA only. Face-to-face (F2F) interviews are mandatory, so ...

Mainframe Engineer

Mclean, VA ยท On-site

$49.50 - $63.75/hr

The Mainframe engineers responsibilities include: Technical Lead for Mainframe Platform (z/OS| Dell Storage| IMS| DB2| RACF| CA JobTrac) to govern operations| changes and sustainability upgrade ...

Mainframe Developer

Mclean, VA

$49.50 - $63.75/hr

Mainframe Developer (Banking Domain) Location: McLean, VA (Onsite, 5 days/week) Note: This position is open to local candidates in McLean, VA only. Face-to-face (F2F) interviews are mandatory, so ...

Mainframe Developer

Mclean, VA ยท On-site

$49.50 - $63.75/hr

Mainframe Developer (Banking Domain) Location: McLean, VA (Onsite, 5 days/week) Note: This position is open to local candidates in McLean, VA only. Face-to-face (F2F) interviews are mandatory, so ...

About the Role Are you a seasoned Mainframe Specialist with deep, hands-on command of COBOL, JCL, VSAM, CICS, DB2, Assembler, REXX, SPUFI, TSO/ISPF, and RACF? We are looking for exceptional talent to ...

Role - Mainframe Tester Location - Mclean, VA Duration - Contract to Hire Need 5+ years of experience. Strong in mainframe testing experience, including using COBOL//JCL/DB2. Knowledge of automation ...

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Mainframe Infra Engineer

Mclean, VA ยท On-site

$61 - $65/hr

Mainframe Infra Engineer Location: McLean, VA Duration: TBD Employment Type: Contract role on W-2 through Above and Beyond Talent Acquisition, Inc. (A&B Talent) Work Arrangement : Hybrid - McLean, VA ...

mainframe lead

Richmond, VA

$48.50 - $62.25/hr

TITLE: Mainframe Lead/ Technical Team Leader Mainframe DURATION:1 +YEAR Location: RICHMOND,VA Required skills Strong Environment Management Skills. 2. COBOL, JCL, CA7, DB2, IMS DB/DC 3. Good ...

Mainframe developer

Mclean, VA

$49.50 - $63.75/hr

Mainframe developer Location: Mclean, VA Duration: contract or full time Skillset : Experience in Mainframe (COBOL/JCL/DB2/IMS/CICS) - must have. Must have - Mainframe and IMS Good in analysis ...

MainFrame

Mclean, VA ยท On-site

Overall 10+ years of Mainframe experience. Skilled in COBOL, IMS DB, DATAVAN, JCL (all skills mandatory) , SAS, REXX, EASYTRIEVE, JOB TRAC (Job Scheduler), CA-View (SAR) report, ISPW (Integrating ...

Technical SME (Mainframe z/OS)

Mclean, VA ยท On-site

$70 - $80/hr

Mainframe Infrastructure Engineer Location: Mclean, VA Remote Duration: 12+ Months Contract Job id - 178319 Must Have Qualifications : * Must have 10+ years as a Mainframe Programmer with hands on ...

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Mainframe Operator information

See Virginia salary details

$10

$52

$71

How much do mainframe operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for mainframe operator in Virginia is $52.92, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46.73 and $60.05 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 Virginia? The most popular types of Mainframe Operator jobs in Virginia are:
What job categories do people searching Mainframe Operator jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Mainframe Operator jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Mainframe Operator jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Mainframe Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Mainframe Operator job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $110,074 per year, or $52.9 per hour.
Technical IBM Mainframe Applications/Systems Analyst

Technical IBM Mainframe Applications/Systems Analyst

rockITdata

Arlington, VA โ€ข On-site, Remote

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago


Job description

Driven by Innovation and built on Trust, rockITdata is a unique SDVOSB services company that partners with leading commercial healthcare/life sciences organizations on cutting edge innovations - think AI, automation and data transformation. We then bring those commercially tested solutions to government entities to deliver predictable, measurable impact for the American taxpayer and consumer.
rockITdata is looking for a Technical IBM Mainframe Applications/Systems Analyst. This role is responsible for the installation, configuration, customization, and ongoing maintenance of mainframe system and ISV software products. This role ensures system stability, performance, and security while supporting business-critical applications running on IBM z/OS environments. This role is remote, Monday - Friday 7:30am- 4:00pm CST
Key Responsibilities:
  • Install, configure, and maintain IBM mainframe operating systems, including IBM z/OS.
  • Perform installation, upgrades, and maintenance of ISV (Independent Software Vendor) products using tools such as SMP/E.
  • Customize system parameters, libraries, and subsystems to meet organizational requirements.
  • Apply maintenance (PTFs, APARs) and perform system IPL planning and execution.
  • Troubleshoot system issues, analyze dumps, and resolve software-related problems.
  • Support storage management processes including DASD, SMS, and DFSMS.
  • Maintain documentation for system configurations, procedures, and changes.
  • Collaborate with application teams, operations, and vendors for problem resolution and enhancements.
  • Participate in on-call rotation and support after-hours maintenance windows.
Requirements:
  • 5+ years of experience in IBM mainframe system programming.
  • Strong experience with:
    • IBM z/OS internals and system components.
    • SMP/E for software installation and maintenance.
    • JCL, TSO/ISPF.
  • Knowledge of system utilities such as IEBCOPY, IDCAMS, IEBGENER.
  • Experience with system IPLs, dump analysis, and problem determination.
  • Strong analytical and troubleshooting skills.
  • Ability to work independently and in a team environment.
  • Excellent documentation and communication skills.
  • Attention to detail and strong organizational skills
  • Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science, Electronics Engineering, or equivalent PLUS 5 Years of experience.
  • Eight (8) years of additional relevant experience may be substituted for education.
  • The ability to pass a Tier 4/HIGH Background Investigation.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with additional IBM subsystems such as: CICS.
  • Familiarity with automation and scheduling tools.
  • Knowledge of disaster recovery and high availability configurations.
  • Experience with mainframe performance tuning and capacity planning.

#LIREMOTE
Here at rockITdata, we are committed to following our 10 Guiding Principles.
Our Guiding Principles define our culture. They're who we are, how we work, and what inspires us to be the best. We empower our people to be themselves and encourage an entrepreneurial way of thinking. In our challenging, fast-paced environment, no day is the same.
Know the Why.
Value People Above All Else.
Transparency to a Fault.
Progress, Not Perfection.
Be Good by Doing Good.
Smart People Can Disagree.
Bend but Don't Break.
Represent Your Brand.
Think Differently.
Be Amazing, Be Fearless, Smile, Have Fun!
Interested in joining something unique? Join us on our rockIT ship as we begin to blast off to the next chapter in our organization!
rockITdata has become aware of a recruitment scam where unauthorized individuals are impersonating rockITdata recruiters, issuing fake job offers, and attempting to setup payment for the job seeker's new hire costs. No one is ever required to complete any monetary transactions before starting employment with rockITdata. Legitimate rockITdata communications only come from @rockitdata.com email addresses and our official Applicant Tracking system, JazzHR (@applytojob.com email addresses). Please refer to our official Careers page at www.rockitdata.com/careers to accurately submit your application with us. You may also verify any suspicious communication by contacting our recruitment team directly through our official email, dreamjob@rockitdata.com.
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