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Mainframe Operator Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Mainframe Developer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$50.50 - $65/hr

MAINFRAME DEVELOPER Location: Chicago, IL (Full Onsite, Open to Relocating Candidates) Visa: Any visa except H1B We're looking for a Mainframe Developer to join our team! If you're experienced with ...

Mainframe Developer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$50.50 - $65/hr

Minimum seven years of mainframe applications development and production support work experience * Solid application design, coding, testing, maintenance and debugging skills * Proficient with the ...

Mainframe Software Development Engineer

Lisle, IL · On-site

$48.25 - $62.25/hr

... of operating as a developer in the IBM mainframe environment • Mainframe Assembler, Metal C, Java and Rest APIs • Mainframe debugging skills using IPCS, VM Trace, XDC, etc. Preferred : • ...

Lead Mainframe Analyst Job ID: 2023-12431 Job Location: Chicago, IL # Positions: 1 Employment Type: W2 Candidate Constraints: Duration:Long term Key Technology: Analysis, Mainframe, reverse ...

Mainframe Senior Developer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$50.50 - $65/hr

... operating system environment, requiring expertise in DB2, COBOL, PL/1 programming, and CICS ... Required : • 15+ years of experience required in IBM mainframe experience • JCL • DB2 • ...

Mainframe Developer

Rosemont, IL · On-site

$49.25 - $63.50/hr

Mainframe Developer Location: Rosemont,IL Duration: Fulltime Mainframe-L2 (Mandatory) As a Lead, you are responsible for managing a small team of analysts, developers, testers or engineers and drive ...

Mainframe Senior Developer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$50.50 - $65/hr

They are seeking a Mainframe Senior Developer responsible for installing, maintaining, and supporting system software products in a z/OS operating system environment. Responsibilities : • ...

Mainframe Developer

Chicago, IL

$50.50 - $65/hr

This highly customized system is based on Level 3 from AFS , built in COBOL and operating through a ... Strong diagnostic and problem-solving skills in complex mainframe environments. * Excellent written ...

Mainframe Developer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$50.50 - $65/hr

Mainframe Developer (12+ YEARS) Location: Chicago, IL • Required Years of Experience: At least 12+ years of relevant experience • 12+ years of experience as a Mainframe Developer Required Skills ...

Mainframe Developer

Rosemont, IL · On-site

$49.25 - $63.50/hr

Mainframe Developer Location: Rosemont,IL Duration: Fulltime Mainframe-L2 (Mandatory) As a Lead, you are responsible for managing a small team of analysts, developers, testers or engineers and drive ...

Mainframe Developer

Rosemont, IL

$49.25 - $63.50/hr

Mainframe Developer Location: Rosemont,IL Duration: Fulltime Mainframe-L2 (Mandatory) As a Lead, you are responsible for managing a small team of analysts, developers, testers or engineers and drive ...

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Mainframe Operator information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$10

$54

$74

How much do mainframe operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for mainframe operator in Chicago, IL is $54.99, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48.56 and $62.40 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 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 Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Mainframe Operator jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What job categories do people searching Mainframe Operator jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Mainframe Operator jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Mainframe Developer

Mainframe Developer

CYNET SYSTEMS

Riverwoods, IL • On-site

$35 - $40/hr

Contractor

Posted 19 days ago


Job description

Job Overview:
 
Pay Range: $35hr - $40hr
  • The Mainframe Developer will be responsible for developing, enhancing, and maintaining mainframe applications along with supporting batch processing, production stability, and system integrations. 
  • The role involves working across COBOL, JCL, DB2, and Unix/Linux environments while ensuring system performance, reliability, and seamless backend integration. The position also includes production support, troubleshooting, and collaboration with cross-functional teams.

Requirement/Must Have:

  • Strong hands-on experience in COBOL, JCL, VSAM, and DB2.
  • Strong Unix/Linux shell scripting experience.
  • Strong SQL and PL/SQL development skills.
  • Experience in batch processing and job scheduling environments.
  • Strong debugging, troubleshooting, and root cause analysis skills.
  • Experience integrating scripts with relational databases.
  • Ability to support production environments and resolve job abends.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to work independently and in a team environment.

Experience:

  • Experience in mainframe application development and support (COBOL, JCL, DB2).
  • Experience in Unix/Linux scripting and backend integration.
  • Experience in production support and performance optimization.
  • Experience working in batch processing environments.
  • Banking, cards, or financial services domain experience preferred.
  • Experience with CI/CD, Git, or DevOps practices preferred.

Responsibilities:

  • Develop, enhance, and maintain applications using COBOL, JCL, VSAM, and DB2.
  • Debug and resolve mainframe application issues across development, testing, and production environments.
  • Optimize COBOL programs, JCL, and DB2 queries for performance and efficiency.
  • Support daily batch processing and resolve job abends promptly.
  • Develop and maintain Unix/Linux shell scripts for automation and system integration.
  • Ensure seamless integration between Unix-based automation and mainframe systems.
  • Troubleshoot and enhance existing scripts for stability and performance improvements.
  • Develop and maintain PL/SQL procedures, functions, packages, and triggers.
  • Perform SQL tuning and optimize database performance.
  • Monitor scheduled jobs and resolve production incidents.
  • Perform root cause analysis and implement permanent fixes.
  • Improve performance of scripts, jobs, and database queries through continuous tuning.
  • Collaborate with stakeholders to gather requirements and deliver scalable solutions.
  • Participate in Agile ceremonies and cross-functional collaboration.
  • Prepare and maintain technical documentation including design and support documents.

Should Have:

  • Strong analytical and debugging skills.
  • Good understanding of batch processing and automation workflows.
  • Ability to manage production support responsibilities.
  • Strong collaboration and communication skills.
  • Experience in fast-paced enterprise environments.

Skills:

  • COBOL, JCL, VSAM, DB2.
  • Unix/Linux shell scripting.
  • SQL and PL/SQL development.
  • Batch processing and job scheduling.
  • Production support and incident management.
  • Performance tuning and optimization.
  • Root cause analysis.
  • Database integration.
  • DevOps tools (Git, CI/CD) preferred.
  • Additional: REXX, CICS, IMS, Assembler (nice to have).
 

Founded in 2010 and headquartered in the Washington, DC metro area, Cynet Systems Inc. is a leading staffing and recruiting powerhouse. Proudly recognized as a nationally and locally certified diversity firm, Cynet delivers agile, scalable talent solutions across industries. With an active footprint in all 50 U.S. states and Canada, we support thousands of consultants through our expansive, high-performing recruitment engine operating across North America and Asia—ensuring speed, quality, and consistency in every hire.

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About Cynet Systems

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Cynet Systems Inc is a staffing and recruiting corporation nestled in Ashburn, VA, USA. Established in 2010, the company operates within the Information Technology and Services sector, specializing in providing effective workforce solutions to different business needs, including IT consulting, direct hire, and contract staffing services. Through the years, Cynet Systems has built an impressive portfolio, going beyond borders and expanding its operations internationally in Canada and India. Rooted in its core values of teamwork, leadership, and commitment, Cynet Systems helps businesses unlock their full potential by providing versatile and competent professionals that perfectly align with their needs. Fueled by their unwavering mission to deliver top-tier talent to businesses worldwide, Cynet Systems garnered various recognitions including SIA's fastest-growing staffing firms and Best Place to Work in Virginia for 2019.

Industry

It services

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Sterling, VA, US

Year founded

2010

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