What is a mainframe operator and how to become one

Key steps to become a mainframe operator

1. Explore mainframe operator education requirements

   Most common mainframe operator degrees

   Bachelor's

   44.7 %

   Associate

   35.4 %

   High School Diploma

   9.9 %

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2. Start to develop specific mainframe operator skills

   Skills	Percentages
   Windows	8.20%
   Troubleshoot	8.00%
   JCL	6.97%
   IPL	6.02%
   Mainframe Operations	5.63%

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3. Complete relevant mainframe operator training and internships

   Accountants spend an average of 1-3 months on post-employment, on-the-job training. New mainframe operators learn the skills and techniques required for their job and employer during this time. The chart below shows how long it takes to gain competency as a mainframe operator based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data and data from real mainframe operator resumes.

4. Research mainframe operator duties and responsibilities

   • Manage local and remote output processing via JES2 node connections.
   • Lead the team for implementation of major enhancements with JCL, DB2, CICS and VSAM and documentation of the upgrades.
   • Monitor and correct production batch jobs with JCL, MVS, and JES3.
   • Monitor the MVS spooling system (JES2), security access (ACF2) and TCP/IP access and processing.

5. Prepare your mainframe operator resume

   When your background is strong enough, you can start writing your mainframe operator resume.

   You can use Zippia's AI resume builder to make the resume writing process easier while also making sure that you include key information that hiring managers expect to see on a mainframe operator resume. You'll find resume tips and examples of skills, responsibilities, and summaries, all provided by Zippi, your career sidekick.

   Choose from 10+ customizable mainframe operator resume templates

   Build a professional mainframe operator resume in minutes. Browse through our resume examples to identify the best way to word your resume. Then choose from 10+ resume templates to create your mainframe operator resume.
   

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6. Apply for mainframe operator jobs

   Now it's time to start searching for a mainframe operator job. Consider the tips below for a successful job search:

   1. Browse job boards for relevant postings
   2. Consult your professional network
   3. Reach out to companies you're interested in working for directly
   4. Watch out for job scams