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Mainframe System Administrator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Sarian, Inc.

Mainframe z/OS Administrator

Mainframe z/OS Administrator Location: Plano TX, Remote Fulltime * Install, customize, test ... Create, populate, secure and troubleshoot IBM z/OS USS (UNIX Systems Services) file systems and ...

Astrion

$125K - $135K/yr

Overview Senior System Administrator WORK LOCATION : Hanscom AFB, MA (Bedford, MA) Salary Range ... be mainframe, mini, client/server, or cloud based. Optimizes system operation and resource ...

Anivas Tech LLC

Mainframe SRE

Upper Marlboro, MD · On-site

$48.50 - $62.50/hr

Anivas Tech is seeking a Mainframe SRE to support our government agency IT operations. We are ... IBM Certified Systems Administrator - z/OS or equivalent certification "Anivas Tech is an Equal ...

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Mainframe System Administrator information

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How much do mainframe system administrator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 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 mainframe operating systems like z/OS and knowledge of automation tools are essential for the role.

Is a mainframe system administrator hard to learn?

Learning to become a mainframe system administrator can be challenging due to the complexity of mainframe environments, specialized tools, and command-line interfaces like TSO and JCL. It typically requires a strong understanding of operating systems, scripting, and often industry-specific knowledge, but with dedicated training and experience, it is achievable.

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?

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:
What job categories do people searching Mainframe System Administrator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Mainframe System Administrator jobs are:
Mainframe System Administrator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Mainframe System Administrator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $106,357 per year, or $51.1 per hour.

Mainframe Admin

West Advanced Technologies (WATI)

Downey, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

Mainframe Admin
Downey, CA
12 months
Responsibilities:
Provide network architecture guidance and improvements for the design of the new z/OS 2.4 zEnterprise Communications Server infrastructure.
Design, implement and support the Communications Systems Services (CSSMTP) customization for mainframe files attachment.
Design, implement, and support communications access to the Client's cloud tertiary data site.
Enhance Williams Data Systems (WDS) enterprise monitoring/alerts.
Participate in Business Continuity exercises including testing, documentation and configuration of the z/Enterprise Communications Server environment at the Local Recovery Center.
Attend Problem and Change meetings in order to support Network Systems activities in these areas as well as resolve open Cherwell help desk incidents assigned to the IBM OS/COM Section.
Provide on-call technical support as required during outages including weekends and off hours.
Plan and schedule network software changes as required to be implemented according to Client's change policies and available maintenance windows.
Provide for knowledge transfer throughout the contract period to permanent IBM OS/COM staff.
Attend related project and design meetings and discussions directed by management; and perform special projects and initiatives as assigned.
Required Skills:
1. Five (5) years of experience within the last seven (7) years with IBM zEnterprise mainframe implementing MultiPath Channel (MPC) alternate routing links in a systems programming troubleshooting support role.
2. Five (5) years of experience within the last seven (7) years with IBM zEnterprise mainframe hardware maintenance console interface in a systems programming troubleshooting support role.
3. Five (5) years of experience within the last seven (7) years customizing the IBM zEnterprise mainframe Communications Systems Services (CSSMTP) for mainframe file attachment.
4. Three (3) years of experience within the last five (5) years installing, maintaining and upgrading the zEnterprise Communications Server mainframe TLS/SSL security, policy-based network and Digital Certificate Implementation and support.
5. Three (3) years of experience within the last five (5) years supporting IBM zEnterprise mainframe Communications Systems and Virtual Tape System storage disaster vaulting communication links.
Regards
Naresh Damagalla
West Advanced Technologies, Inc
E: naresh.d@wati.com

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