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Although they’re not as popular as other jobs in the computer industry, mainframe jobs are still in demand today. While mainframes are largely invisible and typically unknown to most people, they actually play a central role in the business world. They are crucial in the daily operations of large corporations and are essential in today’s booming e-commerce industry.
Mainframes are larger and have more computing power than other classes of computers such as personal computers, microcomputers, and workstations.
Their main difference from supercomputers is that the latter focuses more on producing solutions to a few problems as fast as possible. Mainframes, on the other hand, support concurrent users and transactions as much as possible. A mainframe is characterized by its reliability, availability, and serviceability (RAS).
In this comprehensive guide, we provide you with everything you need to know to have a successful career in this field. We’ve listed:
the basic requirements for beginners
a detailed job description
the skills needed to become a specialist
Let’s see:
In a Nutshell
There are many different types of mainframe computer jobs with each one focusing on a set of specific tasks to ensure that the entire mainframe is operating efficiently. However, these jobs sometimes overlap, require the same skills, and share similar functions.
Key Responsibilities
Install and configure system software
Design and code new applications to run on the mainframe systems
Run tests to ensure functionality and performance
Introduce and manage new workloads on the system
Operate and maintain the mainframe software and hardware
Provide application support
Types of Mainframe Jobs
System programmers
System administrators
System operators
Application designers and programmers
Production control analysts
Salary Range
$40,000–$120,000 (This large range is due to a wide variety of jobs and mainframe operations.)
For Beginners
Mainframe technology may be old but it definitely isn’t outdated nor will it be obsolete in the near future. Even with the influx of new digital technologies, the mainframe remains the backbone of many computer systems of large industries. It’s not merely an old mainframe computer displayed in museums. It will continue to be a dominant technology that adapts seamlessly to technological advancements. That being said, planning a long-term career in mainframe is still a wise decision to take.
Start by learning the basics and mastering skills that could open opportunities for a flourishing career in top companies.
Learn Top Mainframe Programming Languages
Practically any language that runs on Linux can be used on mainframes because a Linux environment can easily be added to these mainframes. However, you should try to master one or two of the programming languages typically used in mainframes.
You can choose from:
COBOL (Common Business-Oriented Language). This is essential for COBOL jobs and among the oldest programming languages still used today. COBOL is still the most popular language for large-scale business applications in mainframes.
Java. This language is popular for its cross-platform compatibility. It can support virtually any type of operating system. So whether or not you plan on getting Java developer jobs, it’s highly recommended that you learn it.
C. Although created for use on Unix systems, this language supports z/OS mainframe environments and provides a fast and flexible way to code.
C++. This language is a wonderful mix of C and Java. It’s more orderly than C but less verbose than Java.
Assembler. Assembly is among the important mainframe languages you should know. It gives a better understanding of higher-level languages.
REXX. This is the leading interpreted language on z/OS. It enables you to run codes directly on the mainframe without having to compile them first.
PL/I. This high-level programming language is often used for various types of application programming on an IBM mainframe.
Be Familiar with Mainframe Operating Systems
Learn how to distinguish mainframe vs server. Thousands of mainframes are currently being used around the globe today. These mainframes run on different operating systems.
So, which operating system does an IBM mainframe use?
The z/OS is the foremost operating system, but most mainframes actually run multiple operating systems. Strive to gain a working knowledge of these most commonly used ones:
z/OS. The most widely used mainframe operating system. It provides a stable and secure environment for applications running on the mainframe.
z/VM. This hypervisor is used as a control program. It creates a virtual machine where it runs other operating systems.
z/VSE™. Smaller mainframe computers typically use this operating system.
Linux for System z®. This allows non-IBM Linux distributions to be used on IBM mainframes such as Z and LinuxONE servers.
z/TPF. This transaction processing facility is commonly used to optimize enterprise resource planning functions. This includes ecommerce sites, airline reservation systems, and other companies that have a high transaction volume.
Get Certified
While not necessarily required, having certifications under your belt can give you an edge in the industry. Also, some top mainframe companies may require internal certification.
Validate your skills by taking some basic certifications and those specific to the tool or technology you’re using. Try to complete the IBM Certifications that are relevant to your job.
Gain Mainframe Experience
If you’re still working on finishing your bachelor’s degree, apply for an internship to get practical experience in mainframe computing. Internship programs provide a great way to learn from mentors who already have a wide experience in the field.
Another way to practice your skills is to look for freelance mainframe jobs. Look for available jobs in local companies, or bid on small projects online.
Apply for Mainframe Jobs in USA
According to Glassdoor, the top mainframe jobs locations in the US are New York, Atlanta, Dallas, Washington, and Chicago. The site also lists the top companies that offer mainframe positions as Toyota North America, Amazon, Dynatrace, Metro Systems (VA), Publishers Clearing House, and Couchbase. You can also apply for available Bank of America mainframe jobs that offer competitive compensation packages.
Mainframe Developer Job Description
Disclaimer: This is a general job description for this position. Every employer will have different criteria for hiring.
Mainframe Roles
Unlike the first home computer, modern computer mainframes are complex but well-structured. In order for the system and its applications to run smoothly and effectively, different roles are assigned to specific individuals. Among the key players are system programmers, administrators, operators, developers, and control analysts. There are times when their roles intersperse but expect to perform these specific tasks for the most popular roles:
Mainframe systems programmers
Install, customize, and maintain the mainframe operating system
Install new programs or update existing ones
Create codes in IDE
Check codes for mistakes and fix faulty lines
Turn designs by developers and engineers into instructions the computer can follow
Test new apps and programs to ensure they produce the expected results
Use a variety of computer languages such as C++ and
Java to write programs
Use code libraries to simplify code writing
Work closely with other software developers
Mainframe system administrators
Oversee the day-to-day operation of mainframe computer networks
Organize, install, and support computer systems (e.g. LANs, WANs, network segments, and intranets)
Install network hardware and software
Upgrade or repair network hardware and software
Ensure systems are operating correctly
Evaluate and optimize mainframe system performance
Maintain mainframe security
Mainframe system operators
Monitor and control the operation of the mainframe hardware and software
Start and stop major subsystems in the mainframe
Monitor the mainframe system consoles for unusual situations
Work with other teams to ensure healthy mainframe performance
Coordinate with system programmers to develop contingency plans
Coordinate with production control analysts to ensure that workloads are completing properly
Mainframe developers
Design, build, test, and deliver mainframe applications
Create a design specification as required by clients and end-users
Create a design that can be used by programmers to construct the needed application
Review, analyze, and modify programming systems
Develop and implement a disaster recovery plan for mainframes
Work with others to develop diagrams, flowcharts, and other specifications
Maintain and develop online and batch application programs running on the mainframe
Production control analysts
Make sure that batch workloads run to completion without errors or delays
Implement well-structured rules and procedures to control changes in the mainframe environment
Daily Activities
Day-to-day functions of mainframe jobs depend on the specific role and position. These would depend on the responsibilities we previously mentioned. If you’re working for a large company, there’s a possibility of working on shifts, weekends, and holidays.
Key Areas of Expertise
For any role in mainframe, you need extensive knowledge of systems of a mainframe, UNIX, and COBOL. Your mainframe resume will stand above the rest if you’re familiar with the different types of mainframe computer, mainframe design, high-performance computing, transaction processing, servers, and mainframe characteristics.
Salary for Mainframe Jobs US
Salaries for mainframe roles vary depending on the specific role, scope of responsibilities, and the company one is working for.
Data from Zippia Mainframe Jobs 2019 report an average salary of $93,950 for mainframe developers. The same report indicates that Sacramento, California is the top-paying city for this role with an annual average of $107,877.
Salary Expert reports averages for other roles that are almost the same as these values. Here are the salaries you can expect from the most popular mainframe positions according to the most recent report from Salary Expert:
Systems Administrator – $91,789
Entry-level – $63,404
Senior-level – $114,390
Programmer – $90,313
Entry-level – $63,671
Senior-level – $111,999
Developer – $78,787
Entry-level mainframe developer salary – $56,026
Senior-level – $97,465
Suitability for freelance
Most companies that use mainframes are large corporations that prefer in-house programmers and developers for better security and round-the-clock monitoring of their mainframes.
However, there are still some companies that offer remote mainframe jobs. If you need to hone your practical skills and gain expert knowledge, you can check the web for mainframe jobs from home and apply for the ones you can confidently meet the requirements.
Management position possibility
With computer technology evolving constantly, jobs in the industry also offer many opportunities for career advancement. For instance, a programmer who gains expertise in the field through years of experience is eventually given the role of senior mainframe programmer. Those who are in mainframe positions can also advance to managerial jobs in IT departments. With employment outlook bright and promising, consider starting Bank of America careers in mainframe.
Mainframe Jobs Salary Range
Various factors such as experience, company size, and industry play a role in determining an employee’s pay.
The city with the highest salary for mainframe programmers is Oakland, California, with an average of $107,147 per year (Zippia). For mainframe developers, the highest-paying city is Sacramento, California with an annual average of $107,877 (Zippia). Mainframe jobs in Dallas TX are a little lower at $106,093 (Salary.com) for mainframe programmers.
To give you an idea of the general average in this field, here are the values reported by different career sites:
$74,911 – Programmer (Glassdoor Mainframe Jobs 2020)
$114,295 – Programmer (ZipRecruiter 2020)
$72,300 – Programmer (Salary.com 2019)
$57,000 – Operator for IBM (Glassdoor 2019)
$52,796 – Operator (ZipRecruiter 2020)
$61,890 – Developer (Salary.com 2019)
$44,000 – Production Control Analyst (Glassdoor 2019)
Mainframe jobs in Canada have similar ranges with an average of $97,167 per year. The entry-level salary is around $68,503, and the senior-level salary – $120,498.
Freelance Opportunities
Since most mainframes are used by large enterprises, there’s a misconception that remote mainframe developer jobs are not possible. While some functions aren’t suited for remote work, there are still many mainframe roles that can be performed on a freelance basis.
Nowadays, features of mainframe computers include remote access implementation while still maintaining security and stability. This makes it possible to perform tasks from home including mainframe COBOL programming.
Beginners in the industry or those coming from iOS developer jobs and Android developer jobs can take on freelance projects to gain practical skills and build a portfolio. Those who have already earned their reputation as experts in the field have vast opportunities to take on lucrative mainframe remote projects.
Education Requirements
Most mainframe roles require a bachelor’s degree in computer science, computer engineering, or other related courses. Some companies may accept associate degrees or lower levels if a candidate has outstanding skills and knowledge of mainframes and has a substantial portfolio. A junior mainframe programmer position may require only a few years of experience, while higher positions would necessitate better qualifications.
What is Mainframe?
This is a question that you must be able to answer fully without faltering before you can begin a career in this field. Master the COBOL language and one or two more of the basic programming languages. Widen your knowledge by taking courses, joining forums, attending events, and subscribing to newsletters. Sharpen your skills by putting theories into practice. Work as a remote mainframe technical support while finishing your degree or earning your certifications.
Get certified for vendor-specific products and in specific programming languages. These certifications can validate your knowledge and mastery of the role you’ll be filling.
Here are among the certifications you may want to take to enrich your resume:
Because the mainframe needs to adapt to other technological innovations, it’s important to keep up with the latest developments in the industry. Continue to take courses throughout your career, and strive to take the most recent certifications. Attend events and conferences to stay updated and widen your professional network. If you’re truly passionate about this field, take further education to become a mainframe test engineer.
Technical Skills
Mainframe jobs in USA are highly technical in nature. It requires much learning of concepts and skills training. Even if you can answer the question “When was the mainframe introduced?”, you need to demonstrate skills proficiency.
Mainframe Jobs Technical Skills:
Mastery of COBOL and its use in developing applications
Knowledge of other programming languages including Java, C, and C++ and their use in mainframe code
Familiarity with scripting languages such as CLIST, REXX, and ISPF macros
Application development using COBOL, REXX, and Assembler language
Using JCL to provide programming support on OS/MVS
Mastery of mainframe OS including z/OS and Unix
Using macro-level CICS commands to access file and storage facilities
Strong testing methodology and testing exercise background
Expertise in database management using DB, DB2, IMS, VSAM, IAM, or QSAM
Strong debugging skill using mainframe developer and testing tools including Xpeditor and Intertest
Familiarity with version control tools such as Endeavor, Changeman, and others
Experience with development tools including ENDEVOR and TSO
Experience in designing and implementing Disaster Recovery Drill
Management of user accounts and user security groups
Maintenance of IBM MVS, CICS, and CA-Datacom environments
System administration for print, file, and network servers
Experience in Agile/Scrum environment
Experience in data center activities including mainframe storage and backup/recovery solutions
Aside from these technical skills, experience in the banking or finance industry may lead to more opportunities and higher-paying mainframe programmer jobs. This is because the finance and banking industry is highly reliant on mainframes.
As you gain mastery of these essential skills, you also gain the confidence to apply for mainframe openings in Bank of America and other institutions.
Non-technical Skills
Mainframe roles require collaboration among different positions. It also requires working with other computer specialists to meet the needs of the clients. Even mainframe contract jobs involve communicating with your clients. As such, it’s important to have interpersonal skills and soft skills to perform your tasks effectively.
Analytical skills
All mainframe jobs require evaluating various aspects of the mainframe’s performance. Analytical skills are required to properly assess a mainframe’s systems and determine the proper course of action.
Communication skills
Since mainframe roles are highly collaborative, excellent communication skills are necessary.
Multitasking skills
More often than not, those who work on mainframes deal with several problems and tasks at the same time. If you have no multitasking skills, you can be overwhelmed by the amount of work that needs to be done.
Problem-solving skills
With the majority of business processes going through mainframes, it’s critical to quickly resolve any problems that arise within the mainframe. Problem-solving skills and decisiveness are thus required for all mainframe openings.
Attention to detail
Most computer-related jobs require keen attention to detail. Mainframe roles are no different. You must be meticulous with your tasks and be able to spot any unusual conditions.
In Conclusion
Some may consider the mainframe as a dying technology, but that’s far from the truth. This resilient technology has seen dozens of advancements in computer technology but has successfully adapted to them. Taking IBM’s mainframes as an example, their early versions had a single central processing unit, whereas now, they have a central processor complex.
The fact is mainframe jobs will continue to be in demand as this backbone of modern computing remains to be a solid foundation for many business computer networks.
Start your career in mainframe by following this comprehensive guide we have prepared for you. All the information we provided were collated from reputable sources to help you become a mainframe programming expert in the future.
Yes, definitely. Compared to mainframe jobs 2018 offered, there will be more mainframe administrative positions available this year. The IBM Z division is on a growth curve, which means more positions will need to be filled. Aside from this, new technologies are emerging and opening vast opportunities for specialists in mainframes including IBM mainframe operating systems.
How do I become a mainframe programmer?
To get an IBM mainframe job, you need to have a bachelor’s degree in computer science, computer programming, engineering, or other related subjects. You must also master one or two programming languages including COBOL. Enhance your knowledge by taking classes on courses related to the area you want to specialize in. You can also take certifications to validate your mastery of certain subjects. Most employers value experience so go through internships or look for mainframe freelance jobs online to gain practical skills and experience.
How much do mainframe programmers make?
According to Glassdoor, mainframe jobs in Phoenix average $71,338 a year while those in New York average $80,508. Meanwhile, the national average salary is reported to be $74,911. Zippia’s estimate of the average mainframe programmer salary is $85,000.
However, expect to get lower offers if you’re new to the field. The average salary for entry-level mainframe programmers is just $55,394 (Salary.com). Depending on your credentials and portfolio, you will most likely receive a starting wage between $49,251 and $61,816.
What language do mainframes use?
Before you search for mainframe jobs near me, you must master at least one programming language. The most popular mainframe language used is COBOL, an acronym for common business-oriented language. This is the language used to complete most administrative work. Other languages used to communicate with the mainframe are C, C++, Java, SQL, L/I, REXX, CLIST, JCL, and Assembler. These programming languages help application developers send commands to the mainframe and deploy mainframe applications.
What is the role of a mainframe developer?
Mainframe developer jobs require you to maintain the mainframe or the central data processing system. The primary role of a developer is to align the design of the mainframe with the needs of the business. Tasks usually include applications design, data analysis, report generation, and mainframe applications deployment.
Collaboration with other developers, programmers, and engineers is also part of mainframe jobs. You can expect a mainframe developer salary of around $75,000 for mid-level positions. Senior-level positions can get around $100,000 annually.
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