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Mainframe Operator Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Mainframe Developer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$90K - $96K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Experience with Mainframe technologies (Mainly PL/1, IMSDB, DB2, JCL) etc. * Very good understanding of Health Insurance (Not Group Health Insurance) * Design/Develop/Support Health Applications ...

Mainframe Developer

Chicago, IL

$90K - $96K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Experience with Mainframe technologies (Mainly PL/1, IMSDB, DB2, JCL) etc. * Very good understanding of Health Insurance (Not Group Health Insurance) * Design/Develop/Support Health Applications ...

SQL Server, Oracle, Progress, MySQL or DB2 Intermediate skills in UNIX, Windows and/or mainframe Operating Systems Good time/project management skills Good attention to detail Good problem solving ...

CICS/MQ Systems Programmer

Chicago, IL · Remote

$56.75 - $72/hr

CICS /MQ MAINFRAME SYSTEMS PROGRAMMER CICS ~~ MQ ~~ Z/OS MAINFRAME SYSTEMS ~~ SMP/E ~~ JES 2 ~~ CICSPLEX ~~ INFRASTRUCTURE REMOTE !!~~ REMOTE!! ~~~~FULL TIME WITH BENEFITS/ANNUAL BONUS OPPORTUNITY~

R&D Engineer Software 3

Lisle, IL · On-site +1

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Proven Mainframe knowledge and skills. * IBM Assembler Language (HLASM) proficiency. * z/OS Operating system familiarity. * Source control systems experience (Endevor etc.) * Strong analytical ...

Showing results 21-40

Mainframe Operator information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$10

$55

$74

How much do mainframe operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for mainframe operator in Chicago, IL is $55.03, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48.56 and $62.45 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?

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:

Infographic showing various Mainframe Operator job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 48% Full Time, 49% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $114,463 per year, or $55 per hour.

Cloud & Data Modernization Specialist - Mainframe Transformation

Beta-Search, Inc

Chicago, IL • On-site

$50.50 - $65/hr

Other

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

Overview The company is seeking a Cloud & Data Modernization Specialist to support the modernization of a large-scale custody accounting platform. Unlike traditional cloud transformation projects, this engagement focuses on stabilizing an existing IBM mainframe environment before progressively modernizing applications, data structures, and infrastructure in preparation for migration to Finbourne. The ideal consultant understands both legacy mainframe ecosystems and modern cloud architectures, enabling practical modernization strategies that minimize business disruption.