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Freelance Ims Systems Programmer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Kyndryl

Job Posting Title IMS System Programmer

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$54.50 - $69.50/hr

Mainframe IMS System Programmer: The Role: We are seeking a highly skilled Mainframe IMS System ... DB2, CICS, MQ, and distributed systems * Familiarity with RACF security controls for IMS ...

Kyndryl

IMS system programmer

Phoenix, AZ

$54.50 - $69.50/hr

The Role Mainframe IMS System Programmer: The Role: We are seeking a highly skilled Mainframe IMS ... DB2, CICS, MQ, and distributed systems * Familiarity with RACF security controls for IMS ...

Kyndryl

IMS system programmer

Phoenix, AZ · On-site +1

$54.50 - $69.50/hr

The Role Mainframe IMS System Programmer: The Role: We are seeking a highly skilled Mainframe IMS ... DB2, CICS, MQ, and distributed systems * Familiarity with RACF security controls for IMS ...

Saransh Inc

IMS / CICS Systems Programmer

Hartford, CT · On-site

$55.50 - $70.50/hr

IMS / CICS Systems Programmer Location: Hartford, CT Job Type: Contract * Working knowledge of SMP/E software installation process, analyzing PTFs and HOLDDATA, triaging HIPER, FIXCAT, and PE'd PTFs.

TestingXperts

IMS DBA & System Programmer Consultant

Moline, IL · On-site

$45.25 - $56.50/hr

... SYSTEMS Engineer and execute the processes to upgrade and/or apply maintenance to releases / versions of IMS database system software, and associated third party products Analyze and Maintain IMS ...

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How much do freelance ims systems programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance ims systems programmer in the United States is $49.75, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $36.06 and $62.26 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Freelance IMS Systems Programmer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Freelance IMS Systems Programmer, you need strong expertise in IBM Information Management System (IMS), programming languages like COBOL or PL/I, and in-depth knowledge of mainframe environments, typically supported by relevant IT degrees or certifications. Familiarity with IMS tools (such as IMS DB/DC, IMS Connect), JCL, and mainframe debugging or monitoring utilities is highly beneficial. Excellent problem-solving, self-management, and communication skills help freelancers efficiently tackle client requirements and collaborate remotely. These skills ensure reliable delivery of complex IMS solutions, minimal downtime, and effective client engagement in a demanding freelance landscape.

What are some common challenges faced by Freelance IMS Systems Programmers when working with multiple clients?

Freelance IMS Systems Programmers often juggle varying client requirements, legacy system constraints, and tight deadlines. Balancing multiple projects means quickly adapting to different environments and documentation standards, which can be demanding. Additionally, remote collaboration with in-house IT teams requires clear communication and strong problem-solving skills to troubleshoot issues efficiently. Staying updated with IMS updates and maintaining security best practices across client systems are also ongoing challenges in this freelance role.

What is a Freelance IMS Systems Programmer?

A Freelance IMS Systems Programmer is an independent IT professional who specializes in IBM's Information Management System (IMS), a hierarchical database and transaction management system. They are responsible for developing, maintaining, and troubleshooting IMS applications, databases, and environments for various clients. Working on a freelance basis means they are not tied to a single employer and may work with multiple organizations, often remotely or on a contract basis. Their expertise typically includes IMS database administration, application programming, and integration with other mainframe systems.
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Freelance Ims Systems Programmer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freelance Ims Systems Programmer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% Locum Tenens, 58% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 22% Contract, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 60% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 38% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $103,470 per year, or $49.7 per hour.

Senior IMS Mainframe Systems Programmer

Wabash Solutions Inc

Jacksonville, FL • On-site

$51 - $64.75/hr

Contractor

Re-posted 8 days ago

Job description

Location: Remote (100%)
Job Type: Contract 
Experience Level: Senior (12+ years)
 
Job Summary

We are hiring a Lead IMS Mainframe Systems Programmer with deep experience in IMS V15.5 or later, SMP/E installations, and z/OS system environments. The ideal candidate will be responsible for configuring, maintaining, and optimizing IMS database systems while serving as the primary technical contact for enterprise clients.

Responsibilities

  • Perform installation, configuration, and maintenance of IMS database systems.

  • Execute SMP/E and non-SMP/E installations for IBM and ISV software.

  • Lead IMS upgrades to version 15.5 or higher.

  • Manage IMS Database Objects, PSB, ACB, and SYSGEN processes.

  • Support related systems: z/OS, CICS, Storage, Disaster Recovery.

  • Utilize monitoring and management tools: CA Database Tools, IBM Database Tools, Sysview, Omegamon, Mainview.

  • Serve as lead technical resource during client transitions and system migrations.

  • Collaborate with system programming and operations teams to implement best practices.

Requirements

  • 12+ years of experience as an IMS Mainframe Systems Programmer.

  • Expertise in IMS Database Administration and Configuration.

  • Experience with IMS V15.5 or later upgrades and SMP/E processes.

  • Strong knowledge of PSBGEN, SYSGEN, and subsystem configuration.

  • Familiarity with z/OS, CICS, Storage, and Disaster Recovery concepts.

  • Excellent communication and problem-solving skills.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience with Mainview, Omegamon, or other performance monitoring tools.

  • Proven ability to lead projects and mentor junior staff.

Benefits

  • Competitive compensation and long-term contract potential.

  • Work with a highly skilled team of mainframe professionals.

  • Opportunity to lead modernization and optimization projects across enterprise environments.

✅ Search Optimization Tags:
IMS Systems Programmer, z/OS Mainframe Engineer, IMS Database Administrator, Mainframe Systems Specialist, SMP/E Installation, IBM Mainframe, IMS V15.5, Omegamon, Mainview