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Mainframe Systems Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Mainframe Network System Engineer

Tampa, FL · On-site

$52 - $66.25/hr

Mainframe Network System Engineer Location : Tampa, Florida Job Type: Contract Duration: 3 Years ... customer mainframe systems. * Provide Tier3 host network services support in broadest sense, at ...

Mainframe Systems Programmer

Buffalo, NY · On-site +1

$106.58K - $177.63K/yr

This Mainframe Systems Programmer role involves upgrading and supporting the z/OS operating system and ISV products, mainly from IBM and Computer Associates (CA). The successful candidate: * will ...

Mainframe Systems Programmer

Buffalo, NY · On-site

$106.58K - $177.63K/yr

This Mainframe Systems Programmer role involves upgrading and supporting the z/OS operating system and ISV products, mainly from IBM and Computer Associates (CA). The successful candidate: * will ...

Position Summary The Mainframe Systems Programmer provides support for on-going projects that require the installation, testing, and implementation of new z/OS operating systems and other 'system ...

Mainframe Systems Programmer

Buffalo, NY · On-site +1

$106.58K - $177.63K/yr

This Mainframe Systems Programmer role involves upgrading and supporting the z/OS operating system and ISV products, mainly from IBM and Computer Associates (CA). The successful candidate: * will ...

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Mainframe Systems Engineer information

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How much do mainframe systems engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of May 31, 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:
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 (zOS Mainframe Internals, Parallel Sysplex, Hardware & Storage) Remote

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

Norfolk Southern Corp.

Atlanta, GA

$53 - $67.25/hr

Other

Posted 19 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.