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Mainframe Systems Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Mainframe Systems Engineer III candidate must have experience in one or more of the following disciplines: z/OS installation and customization, storage management, hardware configuration ...

Mainframe Systems Engineer III

Dallas, TX ยท On-site

$70K - $140K/yr

The Mainframe Systems Engineer III candidate must have experience in one or more of the following disciplines: z/OS installation and customization, storage management, hardware configuration ...

Mainframe Systems SME

Burbank, CA ยท On-site

$55 - $57/hr

This role is a Mainframe Systems SME for a long-term, muti-year assignment with our client ... Working knowledge of software engineering, software development, solution architecture and ...

Mainframe Systems Engineer III

Hagerstown, MD ยท On-site

$171K - $203K/yr

The Mainframe Systems Engineer III candidate must have experience in one or more of the following disciplines: z/OS installation and customization, storage management, hardware configuration ...

The Mainframe Systems Engineer III candidate must have experience in one or more of the following disciplines: z/OS installation and customization, storage management, hardware configuration ...

Mainframe Systems Engineer III

Columbus, OH

$167K - $198K/yr

The Mainframe Systems Engineer III candidate must have experience in one or more of the following disciplines: z/OS installation and customization, storage management, hardware configuration ...

Mainframe Systems Engineer III

Denver, CO ยท On-site

$178K - $211K/yr

The Mainframe Systems Engineer III candidate must have experience in one or more of the following disciplines: z/OS installation and customization, storage management, hardware configuration ...

$158K - $188K/yr

The Mainframe Systems Engineer III candidate must have experience in one or more of the following disciplines: z/OS installation and customization, storage management, hardware configuration ...

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Mainframe Systems Engineer information

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How much do mainframe systems engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 13, 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 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.

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 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.
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:
Infographic showing various Mainframe Systems Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $121,006 per year, or $58.2 per hour.
Senior Mainframe Systems Programmer

Senior Mainframe Systems Programmer

West Advanced Technologies (WATI)

Downey, CA โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago


Job description

Senior Mainframe Systems Programmer
Downey, CA
12+ months
Description:
The Senior Systems Programmer for Legacy Systems, for maintenance and support of Z/OS systems, is responsible for planning and upgrading the systems on a Client-established basis, verifying the health of all systems, and making necessary changes as required. This includes analyzing the issues reported by development teams making necessary recommendations; planning and designing systems architecture; working with customers to test applications post-upgrade; ensuring software is compatible with operating systems; upgrading hardware in a timely manner with minimum downtime windows; evaluating new application software technologies; and/or ensuring that relevant security products are patched on a regular basis. The Senior Systems Programmer for Legacy Systems, for development of operating systems, is responsible for analyzing systems requirements, risks and costs; evaluating, selecting, verifying and validating systems software environments; evaluating, selecting and installing compilers, assemblers and utilities; integrating hardware and software components within systems environments; monitoring and fine-tuning performance of systems environments; evaluating new systems engineering technologies and subsequent effects on operating environments; and/or ensuring that information security/information assurance policies, principles and practices are integral elements of operating environments.
Skills Required:
A Senior Mainframe Systems Programmer is responsible for leading and/or supporting the most complex IT infrastructure, modification, installation, testing, implementation, maintenance and enhancements of new or existing system software products. This classification must plan, install, configure, test, implement and manage core system software products in support of the County's IT architecture and business needs. Special organizational or functional industry position titles for systems programmer include, but are not limited to, Z/OS System Administrator, MVS Systems Administrator, CICS/IMS/DB2/ADABAS Systems Programmer, and Z/OS Network and Storage Administrator. The following technology skill sets are required to perform in this classification -IBM: Z/OS, IMS, DB2, ADABAS, SMP/E, JCL, IMS DB/DC, CICS, ACF2, ASSEMBLER/ COBOL/ REXX, CONTROL-M, VTAM, TCPIP, NETVIEW, NATURAL/ SUPERNAT, ENTIREX, CA SPOOL, IMS & DB2 BMC Tools, HMC/HOD/IODF, VTS.
Must have a minimum of seven (7) years of experience in Z/OS Systems programming, with at least four (4) years of that experience in a lead role.
Bachelor's degree in an IT-related or engineering field.
Strong Z/OS Network & communications skills, HCD, HMC. AT-TLS, Z/OSMF, Enterprise extender, Zen tools.
Regards
Naresh Damagalla
West Advanced Technologies, Inc
E: *************