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Contract Rpg Programmer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Contract Rpg Programmer information

See California salary details

$32.6K

$92.1K

$127.8K

How much do contract rpg programmer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for contract rpg programmer in California is $92,144.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $82,400.00 and $105,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a contract RPG programmer?

A Contract RPG Programmer is a software developer who is hired on a temporary or project basis to work with RPG (Report Program Generator) programming, typically on IBM i (AS/400) systems. They are responsible for designing, coding, maintaining, and troubleshooting applications written in the RPG language. Contract RPG Programmers often work with businesses that need short-term support for legacy systems, upgrades, or specific projects, rather than hiring a full-time employee. Their expertise is valuable for companies looking to maintain or enhance their IBM i environments efficiently.

What does a contract RPG programmer do?

Report Program Generator (RPG) is a proprietary programming language from IBM for developing business applications. A contract RPG programmer creates and customizes applications for businesses and writes codes using the RPG language on a contract basis, either for short-term or long-term projects. As a contract RPG programmer, your job duties include determining what your client needs and expects from the application, testing new or existing code to meet those expectations, and debugging applications before configuring them for use on a company’s computer network. You also suggest development strategies for new applications and train staff on how to use the new software and applications when necessary.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a contract RPG programmer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Contract RPG Programmer, you need strong expertise in IBM RPG programming languages (including RPG IV and free-format RPG), experience with IBM iSeries (AS/400) environments, and a background in software development. Familiarity with tools like Rational Developer for i, SQL, CL programming, and source control systems is typically required. Excellent problem-solving, communication, and time management skills help contract programmers effectively interact with clients and deliver projects on tight deadlines. These skills ensure reliable, efficient development of business applications and successful collaboration in dynamic project-based settings.

What are some common challenges faced by contract RPG programmers when working with new clients or legacy codebases?

Contract RPG programmers often encounter challenges such as quickly adapting to unfamiliar legacy code, understanding existing business logic, and integrating new features without disrupting current systems. Communication with clients to clarify requirements and expectations is also key, as documentation can sometimes be limited or outdated. Building rapport with in-house teams and effectively managing project timelines are essential skills to ensure smooth collaboration and project success.

What is the difference between Contract Rpg Programmer vs Contract Java Developer?

AspectContract Rpg ProgrammerContract Java Developer
Required CredentialsExperience with RPG language, certifications in legacy systemsJava certifications, computer science degree
Work EnvironmentLegacy systems, mainframe or IBM i environmentsModern web and enterprise applications
Employer & Industry UsageFinancial institutions, manufacturing, legacy system maintenanceTech companies, startups, enterprise software
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for legacy vs modern programming rolesPopular comparison for enterprise software developers

The Contract Rpg Programmer typically works with legacy IBM i systems using RPG language, focusing on maintaining and updating existing applications. In contrast, a Contract Java Developer works on modern enterprise applications using Java, often in web or mobile environments. While both roles require programming skills, their environments, tools, and industry focus differ significantly.

What are the most commonly searched types of Rpg Programmer jobs in California?

The most popular types of Rpg Programmer jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Contract Rpg Programmer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Contract Rpg Programmer job openings:

Infographic showing various Contract Rpg Programmer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $92,144 per year, or $44.3 per hour.

Remote Senior RPG Developer

Kforce Technology Staffing

San Diego, CA • On-site

$57.75 - $76.50/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

RESPONSIBILITIES:
Kforce has a client in need of a Remote RPG Developer. Experience (personal or professional) with web technologies including any of the following, HTML, Javascript, NodeJS, ProfoundJS, PHP, .NET or Java is highly desired.
Responsibilities:
* Design, develop, test, and maintain RPG and CL applications on the IBMi platform
* Collaborate with business users, analysts, and IT teams to deliver technical solutions and specifications
* Develop and maintain service programs, stored procedures, prototypes, and binding directories
* Troubleshoot, enhance, and optimize data-centric applications for performance and reliability
* Support production systems by resolving escalated issues and working with support and training teams
* Lead or contribute to IT projects, process improvements, and special initiatives
* Mentor junior developers and serve as a subject matter expert for RPG and IBMi technologies
* Create and maintain technical documentation, templates, and coding standards
* Track time, provide project updates, and communicate effectively with stakeholders
REQUIREMENTS:
* Strong experience with RPG (all versions) and CLLE on IBMi
* Experience with service programs, procedures, binding directories, and modular RPG design
* Working knowledge of data-centric application design and performance tuning
* Familiarity with web technologies such as HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and related frameworks (preferred)
* Experience collaborating on large-scale or cross-functional IT projects
* Ability to troubleshoot complex application and system issues
* Strong communication, documentation, and teamwork skills
* Demonstrated accountability, customer focus, and commitment to quality
* Experience mentoring or supporting less experienced developers (preferred)
The pay range is the lowest to highest compensation we reasonably in good faith believe we would pay at posting for this role. We may ultimately pay more or less than this range. Employee pay is based on factors like relevant education, qualifications, certifications, experience, skills, seniority, location, performance, union contract and business needs. This range may be modified in the future.
We offer comprehensive benefits including medical/dental/vision insurance, HSA, FSA, 401(k), and life, disability & ADD insurance to eligible employees. Salaried personnel receive paid time off. Hourly employees are not eligible for paid time off unless required by law. Hourly employees on a Service Contract Act project are eligible for paid sick leave.
Note: Pay is not considered compensation until it is earned, vested and determinable. The amount and availability of any compensation remains in Kforce's sole discretion unless and until paid and may be modified in its discretion consistent with the law.
This job is not eligible for bonuses, incentives or commissions.
Kforce is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran status, or disability status.
By clicking ?Apply Today? you agree to receive calls, AI-generated calls, text messages or emails from Kforce and its affiliates, and service providers. Note that if you choose to communicate with Kforce via text messaging the frequency may vary, and message and data rates may apply. Carriers are not liable for delayed or undelivered messages. You will always have the right to cease communicating via text by using key words such as STOP.

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About Kforce

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Kforce is a professional staffing services firm that is located in Tampa, Florida, US. Operational since 1962, it specializes in flexible and direct hire staffing in Technology and Finance & Accounting, engaging over 23,000 highly skilled professionals annually with more than 4,000 customers. Kforce operates within various industry sectors such as healthcare, financial services, communications, and government. Their mission is to have a meaningful impact on all the lives they serve, with a focus on integrity, respect, and trust.

Industry

It services and finance and insurance

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Tampa, FL, US