Mainframe Systems Engineer salary in United States

Average Yearly Salary of Mainframe Systems Engineer in United States is approximately 85,879 USD (86,367 USD). Data is for 2025 and indicates a pre-tax value. The salary itself depends on multiple factors such as seniority, job performance, certifications, experience or any other bonuses. The value indicated is an average amount based on records we have in database. Real values may vary. The data is for orientational purposes.

What does Mainframe Systems Engineer do?

A mainframe systems engineer is responsible for the design, implementation, and maintenance of mainframe computer systems. They work with large-scale, high-performance systems that handle critical business operations and data processing tasks. The main duties of a mainframe systems engineer include installing and configuring operating systems, managing storage and memory resources, optimizing system performance, troubleshooting hardware and software issues, and ensuring system security and compliance. This occupation requires strong technical skills in mainframe architecture, operating systems (such as z/OS), programming languages (like COBOL and JCL), and database management systems (DB2). Mainframe systems engineers must have excellent problem-solving abilities to diagnose and resolve complex system issues. They also collaborate with other IT professionals, such as network engineers and database administrators, to ensure seamless integration and operation of the mainframe system within the overall IT infrastructure.

Skills: Mainframe systems engineer, System design, System implementation, System maintenance, Operating systems, Troubleshooting, System security.
Job industry: Information technology

How much does Mainframe Systems Engineer make?

Difference in salary year over year or average salary increase is approximately 3 %


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Salary comparison to National average

Is Mainframe Systems Engineer a well paid job?

Yes, our data shows that Mainframe Systems Engineer is a well paid job. With years and experience the salary might increase even further, resulting in higher satisfaction.

What is considered a high salary for Mainframe Systems Engineer?

High salary for Mainframe Systems Engineer would be somewhere between 94,467 USD and 124,525 USD. However this is an estimation based on Gaussian Distribution.

How much can you save working as Mainframe Systems Engineer in United States?

Living in United States the approximate monthly expenses are: 2,280 USD. This amount covers basic needs such as food, housing, clothing, healthcare and education costs for a single person. No luxury expenses such as traveling, leisure, hobbies are included in the estimation.

Estimated Yearly Salary: 85,879 USD
Estimated Monthly Salary: 7,157 USD
Estimated Weekly Salary: 1,652 USD per week
Estimated Hourly Salary: 41 USD per hour
By working as Mainframe Systems Engineer a person can save up to 4,917 USD per month or 59,007 USD yearly. Values are pre-tax.

NOTE: These values are estimates and are averaged for the whole country. Furthermore the value is likely exaggerated as no other expenses are taken into account in the projection. Unessential expenses are very subjective and are difficult to assess. Most likely the previously estimated number is significantly lower for majority of people. Expenses in different cities across the country may vary. Above values accuracy is low and is based on limited set of data obtained.

For more information regarding expenses in United States, see costs of living in United States.

Salary comparison to region and neighbouring coutries

Country's neighbours are: Canada, Mexico.
To make it easier for comparison a conversion from local currency to USD has been made (conversion rates may vary).

Estimated Yearly Salary for Mainframe Systems Engineer

Last revision of data: 2025-01-04

Salary increase per years of experience

Based on data available the salary increase per years of experience is as following

0 years (beginner) equals base salary

1 to 5 years of experience yields +12% salary increase

6 to 10 years of experience yields +25% salary increase

11 to 15 years of experience yields +16% salary increase

16 to 25 years of experience yields +9% salary increase

more than 25 years of experience yields +10% salary increase

NOTE: Details based on limited set of data. Percentages may vary. The salary increase over years of experience can vary widely based on factors such as job industry, job role, location, company size, and individual performance. To gain even larger increase in salary one is advised to switch jobs and / or employer.

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Data as of 2025

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