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Mainframe Performance Tuning Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Mainframe COBOL Developer

Madison, WI ยท On-site

$49.50 - $63.50/hr

Mainframe COBOL Developer Location: Madison, WI (Onsite) Job Type: Full-Time Job Summary: We are ... Perform unit testing, debugging, troubleshooting, and performance tuning. Support production ...

Mainframe IMS and CICS Developer

Wilmington, DE ยท On-site

$47.50 - $61/hr

Familiarity with mainframe performance tuning and troubleshooting Location & Work Model: Wilmington, DE -- Day-1 Onsite, 5 days per week. Candidates must be willing to work from the office starting ...

Mainframe Engineer

Boiling Springs, PA ยท On-site

$47.50 - $61/hr

Knowledge of best practices in mainframe performance tuning and modernization. U.S. Citizenship Requirement: This position is restricted to U.S. citizens only in accordance with federal contract ...

Mainframe Engineer

Boiling Springs, PA ยท On-site

$47.50 - $61/hr

Knowledge of best practices in mainframe performance tuning and modernization. U.S. Citizenship Requirement: This position is restricted to U.S. citizens only in accordance with federal contract ...

Mainframe Developer

Wilmington, DE ยท On-site

$47.50 - $61/hr

Support batch cycles, job failures, abends, and performance tuning . * Participate in mainframe ... modernization initiatives , data migration, and integration projects. * Ensure compliance with ...

Mainframe Developer

Buffalo, NY ยท On-site

$47.50 - $61/hr

Support batch cycles, job failures, abends, and performance tuning . * Participate in mainframe ... modernization initiatives , data migration, and integration projects. * Ensure compliance with ...

DBA Level II (DB2 for z/OS and SQL)

Marysville, OH ยท On-site

$46 - $57.50/hr

Strong experience in performance tuning, database utilities, and mainframe operations. * Experience working on large scale projects and coordinating with cross functional teams. * Deep knowledge of ...

Mainframe support

Weehawken, NJ ยท On-site

$53.25 - $68.50/hr

Mainframe support Location: Weehawken, NJ COBOL, DB2, CICS, and experience in Mainframe batch ... Performance tuning and optimization skills to analyze system performance and make adjustments to ...

Mainframe Developer

Westlake, TX ยท On-site

$47 - $60.50/hr

Mainframe Developer Location: Westlake, TX (Onsite) Mode: Contract Core Responsibilities ... Performance Tuning and Debugging Perform advanced root-cause analysis, system tracing, and ...

Develop and optimize DB2 SQL queries , stored procedures, and performance tuning * Handle ... Mainframe utilities (SORT, IDCAMS, IEBGENER) * Debugging tools like Expeditor, Abend-AID

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Mainframe Performance Tuning information

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How much do mainframe performance tuning jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for mainframe performance tuning 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 are some typical challenges faced in mainframe performance tuning roles, and how are they addressed within a team environment?

Professionals in mainframe performance tuning often face challenges such as identifying resource bottlenecks, balancing workloads across multiple systems, and optimizing for both legacy and modern applications. Addressing these issues typically involves close collaboration with application developers, systems programmers, and network teams to diagnose problems and implement solutions. Regular performance monitoring, ongoing communication, and a structured approach to testing and change management are essential for success in this role. Team members often participate in cross-functional meetings to share insights and coordinate improvement efforts.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Mainframe Performance Tuning Specialist, and why are they important?

To thrive in Mainframe Performance Tuning, you need in-depth knowledge of mainframe operating systems, system architecture, and performance analysis, often supported by a degree in computer science or a related field. Expertise in tools like IBM OMEGAMON, RMF, SMF, and familiarity with z/OS, as well as relevant certifications, is typically required. Analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication are essential soft skills for diagnosing issues and collaborating with IT teams. These skills are crucial for maintaining optimal system performance, minimizing downtime, and ensuring efficient business operations.

What is the difference between Mainframe Performance Tuning vs Mainframe Systems Programmer?

AspectMainframe Performance TuningMainframe Systems Programmer
Primary FocusOptimizing mainframe system performance and resource utilizationMaintaining, installing, and configuring mainframe systems and software
Skills & CertificationsPerformance analysis, z/OS knowledge, monitoring toolsSystem installation, configuration, and troubleshooting skills
Work EnvironmentPerformance labs, production systems, monitoring toolsData centers, system consoles, software management environments
Industry UsageFinancial services, insurance, large enterprisesSame industries, often overlapping roles

While both roles work within mainframe environments, Mainframe Performance Tuning focuses on enhancing system efficiency, whereas Mainframe Systems Programmers handle system setup and maintenance. Understanding these differences helps organizations assign the right expertise for optimal mainframe operations.

What is mainframe performance tuning?

Mainframe performance tuning refers to the process of optimizing the efficiency and speed of mainframe computer systems. This involves analyzing system resources, workloads, and configurations to identify bottlenecks and make adjustments that improve throughput and response times. Techniques can include tuning parameters in operating systems, databases, middleware, and networking components. The goal is to ensure the mainframe operates at peak efficiency to support business applications and minimize downtime.
More about Mainframe Performance Tuning jobs
What job categories do people searching Mainframe Performance Tuning jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Mainframe Performance Tuning jobs are:
Infographic showing various Mainframe Performance Tuning job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 10% Locum Tenens, 76% Full Time, 2% Part Time, 8% Contract, and 4% Summer. Highlights an 83% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $111,026 per year, or $53.4 per hour.
Mainframe COBOL Developer

Mainframe COBOL Developer

Up2date Technologies

Madison, WI โ€ข On-site

$49.50 - $63.50/hr

Other

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Mainframe COBOL Developer
Location: Madison, WI (Onsite)
Job Type: Full-Time

Job Summary:
We are seeking an experienced Mainframe COBOL Developer with at least 4 years of hands-on Mainframe development experience. The ideal candidate will have strong expertise in COBOL, JCL, DB2, CICS, and VSAM, along with experience developing, maintaining, and supporting enterprise Mainframe applications. The role requires close collaboration with business and technical teams to deliver reliable, high-quality solutions while supporting modernization initiatives.

Key Responsibilities:
Design, develop, and maintain Mainframe applications using COBOL, JCL, DB2, CICS, and VSAM.
Analyze business requirements and translate them into technical solutions.
Develop and maintain batch processing and online (CICS) applications.
Write efficient, maintainable, and optimized COBOL code.
Perform unit testing, debugging, troubleshooting, and performance tuning.
Support production environments by resolving application issues and minimizing downtime.
Develop SQL queries and manage DB2 database interactions.
Integrate Mainframe applications with external systems and platforms.
Participate in code reviews and follow development best practices.
Create and maintain technical documentation.
Collaborate with developers, QA teams, business analysts, and project managers.
Contribute to Mainframe modernization and application enhancement initiatives.

Required Skills & Qualifications:
Bachelor''s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
Minimum 4+ years of Mainframe development experience.
Strong experience with:
COBOL
JCL
DB2
CICS
VSAM
Hands-on experience with TSO/ISPF.
Strong SQL and DB2 database knowledge.
Experience using debugging tools such as Abend-AID or similar.
Experience with version control tools like Endevor or Git.
Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
Strong written and verbal communication skills.
Ability to work effectively in a collaborative team environment.

Preferred Qualifications:
Experience with Mainframe modernization projects.
Experience integrating Mainframe applications with cloud or modern platforms.
Knowledge of Agile/Scrum development methodologies.
Experience with Mainframe performance tuning and optimization.
Familiarity with automated testing and CI/CD processes in Mainframe environments.
Understanding of Mainframe security best practices and secure coding principles.