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Mainframe Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

West Advanced Technologies

Mainframe Operator

Downey, CA · On-site

$50.75 - $65/hr

Mainframe Operator Location: Downey, CA Duration: 12 months Description: The Information Technology Mainframe Operator works under the direction of an Information Technology Systems Operations ...

WATI

Mainframe Operator

Downey, CA · On-site

$50.75 - $65/hr

Mainframe Operator Location: Downey, CA Duration: 12 months Description: The Information Technology Mainframe Operator works under the direction of an Information Technology Systems Operations ...

West Advanced Technologies

Mainframe Admin

Downey, CA · On-site

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.

Sonsoft Inc

Mainframe Consultant

Irwindale, CA · On-site

At least 5 years of experience in Mainframe Technologies (COBOL, CICS, JCL, DB2) * At least 5 years of experience in handling reports and file systems in Mainframe * At least 3 years of experience in ...

Sonsoft Inc

Mainframe Consultant

Irwindale, CA

At least 5 years of experience in Mainframe Technologies (COBOL, CICS, JCL, DB2) * At least 5 years of experience in handling reports and file systems in Mainframe * At least 3 years of experience in ...

eTeam Inc.

Mainframe Programmer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

Mainframe Programmer Job Role: Mainframe Programmer Duration: 6 months with possible extension Location: Irving, TX, Chicago, IL, Charlotte, NC, Milwaukee, WI 53005, Atlanta, GA, New York, NY ...

WATI

Mainframe Application Programmer

Downey, CA · On-site

Mainframe Application Programmer Location: Downey, CA Duration: 12 months Mandatory Skills: * The Senior Application Programmer for Mainframe Systems will possess knowledge and experience in ...

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How much do mainframe jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for mainframe in California is $52.68, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46.49 and $59.81 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the average salary for mainframe jobs?

The average salary for mainframe professionals typically ranges from $70,000 to $120,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Senior roles or specialized skills in mainframe environments, such as COBOL or JCL, can command higher salaries. Many positions also offer benefits like retirement plans and training opportunities.

What jobs in the US pay 300,000 a year?

Mainframe professionals such as senior systems architects, lead developers, and IT managers with extensive experience and specialized skills can earn $300,000 or more annually. These roles often require expertise in mainframe technologies like COBOL, JCL, and mainframe security, along with certifications and leadership responsibilities.

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

To excel as a Mainframe Developer, a strong background in COBOL, JCL, mainframe operating systems (like z/OS), and database management is essential, often supported by a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with tools such as IBM DB2, CICS, VSAM, and mainframe version control systems is typically required, and certifications like IBM Certified System Programmer can be advantageous. Analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are important soft skills for identifying issues and collaborating with cross-functional teams. These skills ensure reliable maintenance, development, and modernization of mission-critical legacy systems that support large-scale business operations.

Is mainframe a good career option?

Mainframe careers involve working with large-scale computer systems used by many organizations for critical applications. The role typically requires knowledge of programming languages like COBOL, system administration, and understanding of legacy systems, with steady demand in finance, government, and large enterprises. It can be a stable career with opportunities for specialization and certification but may require ongoing learning of evolving technologies.

What Is a Mainframe Application Developer Job Description?

The job description of a mainframe application developer is to sustain the central data processing system, or mainframe. Common duties include designing applications, analyzing data, running reports, and deploying mainframe applications. This job requires a great deal of collaboration to keep the mainframe going and a strong understanding of mainframe languages. A key part of this role is to align the design of the mainframe with changing business needs.

What are mainframes and what do they do?

Mainframes are powerful computers used mainly by large organizations for critical applications, bulk data processing, large-scale transaction processing, and enterprise resource planning. They are known for their reliability, scalability, and security, making them essential for industries like banking, healthcare, and government. Mainframes can handle thousands of users and transactions simultaneously, supporting the core operations of many businesses.

What are some typical challenges faced by mainframe professionals when integrating legacy systems with modern technologies?

Mainframe professionals often encounter challenges when integrating legacy systems with newer technologies, such as ensuring data compatibility, managing security protocols, and minimizing downtime during migration. These tasks require a deep understanding of both the existing mainframe architecture and the modern platforms being introduced. Collaboration with cross-functional teams—including application developers, security specialists, and project managers—is essential to ensure seamless integration and to address potential issues proactively. Staying updated on the latest integration tools and best practices also helps in overcoming these challenges efficiently.

Can AI replace mainframe?

Mainframe professionals work with large-scale, mission-critical systems that require specialized skills in legacy technologies, security, and data management. While AI can automate certain tasks like data analysis and system monitoring, it is unlikely to fully replace mainframe roles due to the complexity and reliability requirements of mainframe environments. Instead, AI tools are often integrated to enhance efficiency and support mainframe operations.

What is the difference between Mainframe vs Mainframe Developer?

AspectMainframeMainframe Developer
Primary RoleMaintains and manages mainframe hardware and systemsDesigns, develops, and tests mainframe applications
Skills & CertificationsKnowledge of mainframe hardware, OS, and basic scriptingProficiency in COBOL, JCL, and mainframe programming languages
Work EnvironmentData centers, enterprise IT departmentsDevelopment teams within mainframe environments
Industry UsageUsed by organizations with legacy systemsDevelops and maintains those legacy systems

While Mainframe professionals focus on maintaining the hardware and system infrastructure, Mainframe Developers specialize in creating and updating mainframe applications. Both roles require knowledge of mainframe environments, but their responsibilities differ significantly within the same industry.

More about Mainframe jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Mainframe jobs in California? The most popular types of Mainframe jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Mainframe jobs in California? For Mainframe jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Mainframe jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Mainframe jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Mainframe jobs? Cities in California with the most Mainframe job openings:
Mainframe jobs near you
Infographic showing various Mainframe job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $109,572 per year, or $52.7 per hour.
Mainframe Operator

Mainframe Operator

West Advanced Technologies

Downey, CA • On-site

$50.75 - $65/hr

Other

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Position: Mainframe Operator
Location: Downey, CA
Duration: 12 months
Description:
The Information Technology Mainframe Operator works under the direction of an Information Technology Systems Operations Supervisor who manages and oversees all aspects of work for the IBM mainframe systems. The Information Technology Mainframe Operator starts and stops system tasks, monitors the system consoles for unusual conditions, and works with the system programming and production control staff to ensure the health and normal operation of the systems. The Information Technology Mainframe Operator is also responsible for starting and stopping the major subsystems, such as transaction processing systems, database systems, and the operating system itself. These "restart operations" include performing an orderly shutdown and startup of the system and its workloads when it is required. The Information Technology Mainframe Operator communicates with system programmers, who assist the operator in determining the proper course of action, and with the production control analyst, who works with the operator to make sure that production workloads are completing properly.
Skills Required:
The Information Technology Mainframe Operator will possess knowledge in decision making; organizational awareness; problem solving; oral communication and writing skills. The following technology skill sets are required to perform in this classification: IBM, Z/OS, CICS, NATURAL/SUPERNAT, IMS, DB2, ADABAS, ACF2, ENTIREX, SMP/E, ASSEMBLER/COBOL/REXX, CA SPOOL, JCL, CONTROL-M, IMS & DB2 BMC Tools, IMS DB/DC, VTAM, TCPIP, NETVIEW, HMC/HOD/IODF, Tivoli, MVM, JES2, ESF, Linux, Unix, p-Series, z-Series, & VTS.
Must have a minimum of five (5) years of experience as a mainframe operator, with at least two (2) years of that experience in operating and administering IBM System p-Series/z-Series platform. In addition, one (1) year of experience of operating on automation of system monitoring and maintenance procedures and experience in ITM System Monitoring or similar role.
Bachelor's degree in an IT-related and/or equivalent in mainframe operations field.
Skills/Exp Preferred:
1. Unix scripting
2. PL/SQL
3. Bash scripting
4. Automation
5. Operation System: AIX
6. Cobol
Regards,
Sangeetha
West Advanced Technologies, Inc.
Serving government agencies for 22 Years
E: sangeetha.p@wati.com, D: 279 895 6797
www.wati.com

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