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Mainframe Systems Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

AgreeYa Solutions

Mainframe Systems Programmer

Downey, CA

$56.75 - $72.25/hr

Mainframe Systems Programmer/DBA is responsible for leading and/or supporting the most complex database upgrade projects, modification, installation, testing, implementation, maintenance and ...

Apex Systems

Mainframe Systems Engineer

Chandler, AZ

$65 - $70.24/hr

Job#: 3035731 Mainframe Systems Engineer Location: Chandler, AZ (Onsite) Employment Type: Contract Contract Duration: 12 Months Role Overview This position involves the design, engineering, and ...

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How much do mainframe systems engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of May 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for mainframe systems engineer in the United States is $58.18, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52.88 and $67.31 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Mainframe Systems Engineer, you need expertise in mainframe operating systems (such as z/OS), systems programming, and performance tuning, often supported by a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with IBM mainframe tools, JCL, RACF, and monitoring software, as well as relevant certifications like IBM Certified System Programmer, is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication help engineers manage complex systems and collaborate with IT teams. These skills ensure the reliability, security, and efficiency of critical enterprise computing environments.

What are the common challenges faced by Mainframe Systems Engineers when supporting legacy systems, and how can they be addressed?

Mainframe Systems Engineers often encounter challenges such as integrating legacy mainframe systems with modern technologies, managing system upgrades without disrupting business operations, and ensuring security compliance. Addressing these challenges typically involves thorough change management processes, continuous learning to stay updated on both mainframe and emerging technologies, and collaborating closely with cross-functional teams like application developers and cybersecurity experts. Building strong documentation and leveraging automation tools can also help streamline maintenance and minimize errors.

What are Mainframe Systems Engineers?

Mainframe Systems Engineers are IT professionals who design, implement, manage, and maintain mainframe computer systems used by large organizations for critical applications and data processing. They ensure the mainframe environment runs efficiently, securely, and reliably, handling tasks such as system upgrades, performance tuning, troubleshooting, and disaster recovery. Mainframe Systems Engineers often work with operating systems like IBM z/OS, manage storage and networking, and provide technical support for mainframe-based applications.

What is the difference between Mainframe Systems Engineer vs Mainframe Systems Analyst?

AspectMainframe Systems EngineerMainframe Systems Analyst
Required CredentialsTypically requires a degree in Computer Science or Information Technology, plus certifications like IBM Certified System AdministratorSimilar credentials, often with additional focus on analysis and requirements gathering
Work EnvironmentHands-on technical roles managing hardware, software, and system configurationsFocuses on analyzing system needs, user requirements, and optimizing system performance
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in banking, finance, government sectors with large mainframe infrastructuresCommon in organizations needing system analysis and process improvement for mainframe environments

The Mainframe Systems Engineer and Mainframe Systems Analyst roles share similar credentials and industry usage but differ in focus. Engineers handle technical system management, while Analysts focus on system requirements and optimization. Both roles are vital in maintaining and improving mainframe operations in large organizations.

More about Mainframe Systems Engineer jobs
What states have the most Mainframe Systems Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Mainframe Systems Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Mainframe Systems Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Mainframe Systems Engineer jobs are:
Mainframe Systems Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Mainframe Systems Engineer job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $121,006 per year, or $58.2 per hour.
Mainframe Systems Engineer

Mainframe Systems Engineer

Kforce Technology Staffing

Chandler, AZ

$56.25 - $71.50/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

RESPONSIBILITIES:
Kforce is supporting an enterprise client with a pilot hiring initiative to expand mainframe delivery capabilities in the Phoenix/Chandler, AZ market.
Summary:
We are seeking Senior Mainframe Systems Engineers to support business-as-usual (BAU) operations, upgrades, and enhancements across enterprise z/OS environments (non-transformational work). This is a hands-on, infrastructure role with some client-facing exposure. The pilot is expected to scale significantly if successful and is intended to support the buildout of a broader regional talent hub over time.
Key Responsibilities:
* Provide senior-level z/OS systems engineering support in a production enterprise environment
* Support ongoing operations, upgrades, and enhancements (not new implementations)
* Support mainframe storage environments; IBM storage experience is a strong plus
* Perform performance tuning, monitoring, and operational troubleshooting (as applicable)
* Support production control, monitoring, and operations
* Support mainframe security administration, including RACF/user ID administration
* Collaborate across infrastructure and application-side mainframe stakeholders
* Maintain a -client-ready- presence and participate in limited client interactions
REQUIREMENTS:
* Typically, 5-10+ years of mainframe experience (5-7 years acceptable with strong skills)
* Strong expertise in z/OS Systems Engineering
* Hands-on experience supporting enterprise mainframe environments (operations + upgrades/enhancements)
* Depth across multiple skill areas (multi-skill capability emphasized over tenure)
* Strong troubleshooting, communication, and professionalism in client-facing environments
Preferred/Nice to have:
* Mainframe Storage (IBM storage preferred)
* Performance tuning
* Database administration
* Automation engineering
* CICS, DB2, IMS, MQ
* Mainframe monitoring/operations and production control
The pay range is the lowest to highest compensation we reasonably in good faith believe we would pay at posting for this role. We may ultimately pay more or less than this range. Employee pay is based on factors like relevant education, qualifications, certifications, experience, skills, seniority, location, performance, union contract and business needs. This range may be modified in the future.
We offer comprehensive benefits including medical/dental/vision insurance, HSA, FSA, 401(k), and life, disability & ADD insurance to eligible employees. Salaried personnel receive paid time off. Hourly employees are not eligible for paid time off unless required by law. Hourly employees on a Service Contract Act project are eligible for paid sick leave.
Note: Pay is not considered compensation until it is earned, vested and determinable. The amount and availability of any compensation remains in Kforce's sole discretion unless and until paid and may be modified in its discretion consistent with the law.
This job is not eligible for bonuses, incentives or commissions.
Kforce is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran status, or disability status.
By clicking ?Apply Today? you agree to receive calls, AI-generated calls, text messages or emails from Kforce and its affiliates, and service providers. Note that if you choose to communicate with Kforce via text messaging the frequency may vary, and message and data rates may apply. Carriers are not liable for delayed or undelivered messages. You will always have the right to cease communicating via text by using key words such as STOP.

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