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Mainframe Systems Administrator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

nLeague

Mainframe Systems Programer

Hartford, CT · On-site

$55.50 - $70.50/hr

Mainframe Mainframe Programmer/ Developer Location: Hybrid- 55 Farmington Avenue Hartford ... Collaborate with database administrators, architects, business analysts, and project teams to ...

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 ...

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How much do mainframe systems administrator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for mainframe systems 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 are common career advancement opportunities for Mainframe Systems Administrators?

Mainframe Systems Administrators often begin their careers handling routine maintenance and troubleshooting but can progress to senior administrator roles, systems architect positions, or specialize in performance optimization and security. With experience, there are opportunities to move into management roles such as Mainframe Operations Manager or IT Infrastructure Manager. Mainframe professionals are also valued in industries such as finance, healthcare, and government, where mainframe expertise remains crucial. Continued learning and certifications can help open doors to project leadership or specialized consultancy roles, making this a dynamic career path for those committed to ongoing growth.

What tech jobs pay 400,000 a year?

Mainframe Systems Administrators with extensive experience, specialized skills, and certifications can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $400,000 annually, especially in large organizations or consulting roles. High-paying tech roles often require expertise in legacy systems, advanced troubleshooting, and knowledge of mainframe tools like z/OS, COBOL, and JCL.

Is sysadmin an entry level job?

A Mainframe Systems Administrator role is typically not entry level, as it requires specialized knowledge of mainframe hardware, operating systems, and scripting. Most positions demand several years of experience, relevant certifications, and familiarity with tools like z/OS or IBM Mainframe environments. Entry-level roles in system administration usually involve supporting roles or junior positions with less complex responsibilities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Mainframe Systems Administrator position, and why are they important?

A successful Mainframe Systems Administrator typically possesses strong expertise in IBM z/OS or similar operating systems, proficiency in system monitoring, troubleshooting, and maintenance, often backed by a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with mainframe management tools such as JCL, RACF, and various IBM utilities, as well as certifications like IBM Certified System Administrator, are highly valued. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective communication are essential soft skills for managing complex systems and collaborating with technical teams. These competencies are critical for ensuring system reliability, security, and optimal performance in enterprise environments.

Can mainframe be replaced by AI?

Mainframe Systems Administrators manage large-scale, critical computing environments that require high reliability and security. While AI can automate certain tasks like monitoring and troubleshooting, it is unlikely to fully replace the need for skilled administrators due to the complexity and specialized knowledge involved in mainframe management.

What is a Mainframe Systems Administrator job?

A Mainframe Systems Administrator is responsible for managing, maintaining, and optimizing mainframe computer systems that support critical business applications. They install, configure, and upgrade mainframe hardware and software, ensuring system reliability, security, and performance. Typical duties include monitoring system operations, troubleshooting technical issues, applying patches or updates, and coordinating with development and security teams. They also implement backup and recovery procedures to prevent data loss and downtime. This role is essential for organizations that rely on mainframe technology for high-volume transaction processing and large-scale data management.

What does a mainframe administrator do?

A mainframe systems administrator manages and maintains large-scale mainframe 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 scripting languages are often required for this role.
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Mainframe Systems Administrator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Mainframe Systems Administrator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $106,357 per year, or $51.1 per hour.

Mainframe Systems Programer

nLeague

Hartford, CT • On-site

$55.50 - $70.50/hr

Contractor

Re-posted 12 days ago

Job description

Job id: Mainframe

Mainframe Programmer/ Developer

Location: Hybrid- 55 Farmington Avenue   Hartford, Connecticut

Client: CT DSS

Duration: 06+ months

Job Description:

  • Analyse existing mainframe applications, databases, files, and batch processing workflows to support migration activities.
  • Design, develop, and execute data extraction processes from IMS databases and legacy mainframe data sources.
  • Create, modify, and support JCL required for data extracts, file transfers, conversion processing, and migration testing.
  • Perform COBOL program analysis and code modifications to support data extraction, transformation, validation, and reconciliation requirements.
  • Review and update FTP/SFTP processes to support secure transmission of migration files between source and target environments.
  • Utilize IMS utilities and BMC Utilities for IMS to unload, extract, validate, and reconcile database content.
  • Develop and execute data validation and reconciliation procedures to ensure data integrity throughout the migration lifecycle.
  • Support file mapping, field-level transformation logic, and data conversion specifications.
  • Troubleshoot batch failures, abends, data discrepancies, and performance issues related to migration processing.
  • Collaborate with database administrators, architects, business analysts, and project teams to define migration requirements and resolve technical challenges.
  • Create technical documentation, migration runbooks, implementation procedures, and production support documentation.
  • Participate in migration testing, system integration testing, user acceptance testing, and production implementation activities.
  • Provide production support during migration cutover and post-implementation stabilization periods.
  • Identify opportunities for automation using CLIST, REXX, File-AID, and other mainframe utilities.
  • Ensure compliance with enterprise change management, security, and audit requirements.
  • Required Qualifications
  • 10+ years of Mainframe Development experience.
  • Expert-level COBOL programming experience.
  • Strong JCL development and troubleshooting skills.
  • Extensive IMS Database experience.
  • Experience with BMC Utilities for IMS.
  • Experience developing large-scale data extracts and conversion processes.
  • Strong understanding of FTP/SFTP file transfer methodologies.
  • Proven experience supporting enterprise data migration or modernization initiatives.
  • Experience performing data analysis, reconciliation, and validation.
  • Ability to work independently with minimal supervision in a deadline-driven environment.
  • Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with File-AID.
  • Experience with EZtrieve.
  • Experience with CLIST and REXX automation.
  • Prior experience with legacy modernization or cloud migration projects.
  • Experience supporting financial services, insurance, healthcare, or government mainframe environments.
  • Critical Success Factors
  • Ability to quickly assess complex legacy environments.
  • Strong problem-solving and troubleshooting capabilities.
  • Excellent communication and documentation skills.
  • Ability to meet aggressive deadlines and deliver high-quality migration solutions under tight timelines.