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Mainframe System Administrator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Merican

Mainframe Administrator

San Antonio, TX · On-site

Mainframe System Administrator/Mainframe Infrastructure Expert s: * Mainframe z/OS Admin responsible for managing IBM z/OS operating system In-depth knowledge of IBM z/OS operating systems and ...

MDAEdge

Mainframe DB2 Administrator

Plano, TX · On-site

The role involves leading a team, managing system configurations, and providing technical guidance ... team of Mainframe professionals, including system programmers and administrators. • Provide ...

MDAEdge

Mainframe DB2 Administrator

Fort Worth, TX · On-site

MDAEdge is a company seeking a Mainframe DB2 Administrator with extensive experience in z/OS System Administration and related technologies. The role involves managing a team of Mainframe ...

Cognizant

Mainframe Z/OS Systems Admin

Cognizant is seeking a Mainframe Z/OS Systems Admin to manage and enhance complex z/OS environments ... The role involves performing system programming activities, supporting software standardization ...

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How much do mainframe system administrator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for mainframe system administrator in the United States is $51.13, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46.63 and $64.42 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a mainframe system administrator do?

A mainframe system administrator manages and maintains large-scale computer systems used by organizations for critical applications. They install, configure, monitor, and troubleshoot mainframe hardware and software, ensuring system security, performance, and availability. Proficiency in tools like z/OS and knowledge of backup, recovery, and security protocols are essential for the role.

Is sysadmin a stressful job?

Mainframe system administrators often work in high-pressure environments where system uptime and data security are critical, which can lead to stressful situations. They may need to handle urgent issues, perform on-call duties, and maintain complex systems, requiring strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail.

How much do IBM system administrators make?

IBM system administrators, often working with mainframe environments, typically earn between $70,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on experience, certifications, and location. Senior roles or those with specialized skills in z/OS or security can earn higher salaries. Compensation also varies based on the complexity of systems managed and industry demand.

What is the salary of mainframe storage administrator?

A mainframe storage administrator's salary typically ranges from $70,000 to $120,000 annually, depending on experience, certifications, and location. Experienced professionals with specialized skills in mainframe storage management and related tools may earn higher salaries.

What are some common challenges faced by Mainframe System Administrators and how can they be managed?

Mainframe System Administrators often face challenges such as maintaining system uptime, managing legacy systems alongside new technologies, and ensuring security compliance. These tasks require proactive monitoring, thorough documentation, and continuous learning to keep up with software updates and security patches. Collaborating closely with development and network teams is essential to quickly resolve issues and implement improvements. Building strong troubleshooting skills and staying updated with mainframe advancements can help administrators effectively manage these challenges.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Mainframe System Administrator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Mainframe System Administrator, you need expertise in mainframe operating systems (such as z/OS), system troubleshooting, performance tuning, and typically a degree in computer science or related field. Familiarity with tools like IBM z/OS, JCL, RACF, SDSF, and mainframe automation software, as well as relevant certifications (e.g., IBM Certified System Administrator), is commonly required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help navigate complex environments and coordinate with teams. These skills ensure reliable system uptime, rapid issue resolution, and secure, efficient operations critical to enterprise business continuity.

What is the difference between Mainframe System Administrator vs Network Administrator?

AspectMainframe System AdministratorNetwork Administrator
CertificationsIBM Certified System Administrator, Linux certificationsCompTIA Network+, Cisco CCNA
Work EnvironmentMainframe data centers, large enterprise ITCorporate offices, data centers, network operation centers
Industry UsageBanking, finance, governmentTelecommunications, IT services, corporate networks
Job FocusMaintaining mainframe hardware/software, ensuring system availabilityManaging network infrastructure, troubleshooting connectivity issues

The Mainframe System Administrator and Network Administrator roles share some certifications and work environments but differ in their primary focus. Mainframe System Administrators specialize in maintaining large-scale mainframe systems crucial for enterprise operations, while Network Administrators focus on managing and troubleshooting network infrastructure. Both roles are vital in enterprise IT but serve distinct functions within organizations.

More about Mainframe System Administrator jobs
What states have the most Mainframe System Administrator jobs? States with the most job openings for Mainframe System Administrator jobs include:
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Mainframe System Administrator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Mainframe System Administrator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 42% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 56% Contract. Highlights an 83% In-person, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $106,357 per year, or $51.1 per hour.
Mainframe System Administrator (NOMAD)

Mainframe System Administrator (NOMAD)

Zion Cloud Solutions

Springfield, IL • On-site

Other

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

Title: Mainframe System Administrator (NOMAD)
Duration: Contract
Type: Hybrid/Remote
Location: Springfield, IL/ Remote
Job Summary
The objective of this engagement is to ensure sustained functionality, compliance, and enhancement of key critical NOMAD applications supporting the State Department. These applications Human Resources (HRI), Time Keeping System (TKS), Human Resources Datamart (HRD) require dedicated resources for ongoing technological development, maintenance, and support as well as collaboration for a potential upgrade to a new software version.
State is scheduled for inclusion in the statewide ERP system for payroll and timekeeping NLT 2031 in alignment with the State enterprise implementation. In preparation for this complex move and decommissioning of critical applications, numerous requirements must be met to sustain operations and plan accordingly.
This effort will include comprehensive knowledge transfer to State IT personnel, technical inventory, dependency mapping, architecture strategy, and implementation support, all aligned with evolving requirements, mandates, administrative rule changes, and business process improvements.
Responsibilities:
Acquire knowledge on the assigned NOMAD applications. This includes but is not limited to
user interfaces, source code, interfaces
business rules
database
Reports
open requirements
Independently work on enhancements, ongoing maintenance and support requirements
Participating in ERP migration discussions
Provide the data extracts and meet modernization project needs
Troubleshoot the issues in the assigned applications and resolve them
Perform other duties, as assigned, related to the scope described above
Mainframe System Administrator (NOMAD) Deliverables:
Knowledge acquisition artifacts
Reports
Working solutions for assigned requests (includes development requests, service requests and incidents)
Data extracts
Data extracts for supporting Modernization requirements
Required Skills:
Must have a bachelor s degree in computer science, Management Information Systems or related fields such as Accounting or Mathematics, or the knowledge, skill and workplace experience equivalent to four (4) years of college and coursework in the afore-mentioned subjects.
Must possess excellent verbal and written communications skills in the English language; Effectively acquires and maintains professional rapport and mutual respect with management, stakeholders, and team members.
Must have at least 3 years of recent work experience in NOMAD-based applications.
Must have at least 3 years of recent work experience in programming NOMAD language.
Must have at least 3 years of recent work experience in NOMAD databases.
Must have at least 3 years of recent work experience in NOMAD windows and Screens on-line environments.
Must have at least 3 years of recent work experience in time series arrays and date/time functions within NOMAD environments.
Must have at least 3 years of recent work experience in NOMAD reporting.
Must have at least 2 years of recent work experience in NOMAD in an IBM VM environment.
Must have at least 1 year of recent work experience in knowledge and experience with File Transfer Protocol.

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