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Mainframe Performance Tuning Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Purple Drive Technologies

Mainframe Engineer

Cleveland, OH · On-site

$47.50 - $61/hr

Strong working knowledge of DB2 (SQL| performance tuning| data access * Familiarity with VSAM files and datasets * Mainframe Environment * Experience working on IBM zOS environments * Understanding ...

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How much do mainframe performance tuning jobs pay per hour?

As of May 30, 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 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 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 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.

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.

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:
Mainframe Performance Tuning jobs near you
Infographic showing various Mainframe Performance Tuning job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 12% Internship, 14% Full Time, 2% Part Time, 34% Temporary, 14% Contract, and 24% Nights. Highlights an 90% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $111,026 per year, or $53.4 per hour.
Mainframe Systems Engineer (zOS Mainframe Internals, Parallel Sysplex, Hardware & Storage) Remote

Mainframe Systems Engineer (zOS Mainframe Internals, Parallel Sysplex, Hardware & Storage) Remote

Norfolk Southern Corp.

Manhattan, NY • On-site

$60.25 - $76.50/hr

Other

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

Requisition 39683: B4 Mainframe Systems Engineer 

A resume helps you stand out to hiring managers and recruiters; your resume communicates your experience and your brand. While it is not required, we encourage you to include an up-to-date resume along with a  completed job application to give you the best opportunity to be considered. A complete resume helps us to better understand your unique  background, relevant experiences, and passions. We look forward to learning about you.

Norfolk Southern offers a unique opportunity to be part of our proud legacy that spans nearly 200 years. We are a customer-centric, operations-driven team dedicated to advancing safety, serving communities, and driving innovation for tomorrow's rail.  As part of Norfolk Southern, you'll join a collaborative team where there are opportunities for growth across the organization. We are building a culture where everyone can thrive by owning and driving exceptional results, being humble and leading with trust, serving our customers with excellence, and collaborating and coaching to win.

Job Description

Norfolk Southern is seeking a highly motivated, self-starting Mainframe Systems Engineer to oversee and administer the company's enterprise mainframe environment.  In this role, you will support a Parallel Sysplex infrastructure and play a critical role in ensuring system reliability, performance, and availability.

Key responsibilities include DASD and tape storage management, system performance monitoring and tuning, and proactive problem resolution.  The Mainframe Systems Engineer will also collaborate with internal stakeholders and third-party hardware providers to design and implement solutions that support a highly available, scalable, resilient mainframe environment. 

Responsibilities

   Drive z/OS technology development initiatives, including evaluation, deployment, and integration of new product enhancements and hardware solutions.
   Own the installation, maintenance, and operational support of mainframe infrastructure and system software across a Parallel Sysplex environment.
   Monitor and manage mainframe performance.
   Use, configure and provide support of storage subsystems and infrastructure. 
   Coordinate with hardware and software vendors for support and future project work.
   Create comprehensive documentation, conduct thorough testing, and follow defined change control processes.
   Provide support for mission critical application infrastructure and products.
   Communicate with end-users, application programmers, co-workers, managers, and other stakeholders.
   Writing test scripts and performing testing verification of product deliverables.
   Serve as part of a rotational Level 2 on-call support team, responding to and resolving complex system issues.

Education

Bachelor's degree in technology, MIS, CIS or other related degrees preferred. Will consider experience in lieu of college degree. 
 

Job Related Experience
   Minimum Level: 4 years
   Preferred Level: 5+ years
 

Skills Required 
   4+ years of experience with mainframe z/OS internals, z/OS Parallel Sysplex, Unix Systems Services (USS).
   4+ years of experience with mainframe hardware, software and third-party installation support. 
   4+ years of experience designing, administering, and supporting mainframe disk (DASD) and tape storage infrastructure.
   Experience mainframe capacity planning and performance tuning. 
   Experience writing test scripts and performing testing verifications. 
   Experience with mainframe application development IDE build and run tools. 
 

Skills Desired 
   Expertlevel understanding of z/OS internals, UNIX System Services (USS), and  Parallel Sysplex architecture, including crosssystem communication and workload management. 
   Experience with Assembler, TCPIP/VTAM, TSO/ISPF, REXX, SMP/E
   Maintain and operate within a Parallel Sysplex environment including virtual tape and sharing of DASD.
   Knowledge of Infrastructure software solutions, (ex. Zeke, Zebb, ISPW, TMON, JCLPrep, QuickRef, SAS, CICS, IBM utilities)
   Maintain a Coupling Facility environment.
 

Work Conditions
Location: Position eligible for remote work within Norfolk Southern's 22-state operating network.
Environment: US Remote
Shift Work: No
On-Call: Yes
Weekend Work: No

Company Overview

Since 1827, Norfolk Southern Corporation (NYSE: NSC) and its predecessor companies have safely moved the goods and materials that drive the U.S. economy. Today, it operates a customer-centric and operations-driven freight transportation network. Committed to furthering sustainability, Norfolk Southern helps its customers avoid 15 million tons of yearly carbon emissions by shipping via rail. Its dedicated team members deliver more than 7 million carloads annually, from agriculture to consumer goods, and is the largest rail shipper of auto products and metals in North America. Norfolk Southern also has the most extensive intermodal network in the eastern U.S., serving a majority of the country's population and manufacturing base, with connections to every major container port on the Atlantic coast as well as the Gulf of Mexico and Great Lakes. Learn more by visiting www.NorfolkSouthern.com.

At Norfolk Southern, we believe in celebrating our individuality. By leveraging the unique backgrounds and viewpoints of our employees, we can create a culture of innovation, respect, and inclusion. We know that employees thrive in a workplace where differing viewpoints, ideas, and experiences are freely shared and valued. As such, we encourage all employees to contribute their distinctive skills and capabilities to our organization.

Equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants regardless of race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetic information, veteran status, sexual orientation, and gender identity. Together, we power progress.

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