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Lead Programmer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Lead z/OS Systems Programmer

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

$165K - $170K/yr

Lead z/OS Systems Programmer Locations: • Jersey City, NJ • Pittsburgh, PA • Lake Mary, FL (Orlando area) Employment Type: Full-Time Work Environment: Hybrid - 3 Days Onsite Required ...

... Programmer Lead. The role involves designing, developing, and implementing software solutions to support the Medicare organization, while collaborating with stakeholders to understand business needs ...

Relocation Assistance Available We are seeking a Lead CNC Plasma/Laser Programmer to join our team in Ruston, LA. This role is responsible for programming and operating burn table equipment, ensuring ...

Lead Systems Programmer

Alpharetta, GA · On-site +1

$63K - $94K/yr

We are currently seeking a Lead Systems Programmer to join our team in Alpharetta, Georgia (US-GA), United States (US). Role Responsibilities: * Design, implement, and maintain Windows Server ...

Relocation Assistance Available We are seeking a Lead CNC Plasma/Laser Programmer to join our team in Ruston, LA. This role is responsible for programming and operating burn table equipment, ensuring ...

Lead Systems Programmer

Alpharetta, GA · On-site

$63K - $94K/yr

We are currently seeking a Lead Systems Programmer to join our team in Alpharetta, Georgia (US-GA), United States (US). Role Responsibilities: * Design, implement, and maintain Windows Server ...

Lead Systems Programmer

Alpharetta, GA · On-site +1

$63K - $94K/yr

We are currently seeking a Lead Systems Programmer to join our team in Alpharetta, Georgia (US-GA), United States (US). Role Responsibilities: * Design, implement, and maintain Windows Server ...

Description We are looking for an exceptionally talented senior programmer who is ready for the challenge of producing an AAA title. This role will involve maximizing performance of all console ...

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Lead Programmer information

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How much do lead programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for lead programmer in the United States is $54.96, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43.27 and $68.75 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Senior software engineers, especially those in high-demand fields like machine learning, AI, or working at major tech companies, can earn $500,000 or more annually through base salary, bonuses, and stock options. Achieving this level typically requires extensive experience, advanced skills, and often leadership roles or specialized expertise in the industry.

What is L1, L2, L3, and L4 developer?

In a development context, L1, L2, L3, and L4 typically refer to different levels of software engineers or developers, with L1 being entry-level and L4 being senior or lead roles. These levels often indicate experience, responsibility, and skill set, and are used by organizations to structure career progression and compensation. For a Lead Programmer, understanding these levels helps in assessing team structure and growth opportunities.

How does a Lead Programmer typically balance hands-on coding with team leadership responsibilities?

As a Lead Programmer, you'll often split your time between writing code and overseeing the development process for your team. While you may still handle complex coding tasks or set technical standards, a significant part of your role involves mentoring team members, conducting code reviews, and coordinating with other departments like QA and product management. Effective Lead Programmers are skilled at delegating tasks, ensuring code quality, and facilitating clear communication to keep projects on track. Striking the right balance between technical contribution and leadership is key to both your team's success and your own career growth.

Is AI replacing coders?

Lead Programmers and other coding professionals use AI tools to automate repetitive tasks and improve efficiency, but AI currently cannot fully replace the creativity, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills required for software development. AI acts as a complement to human programmers, enabling them to focus on complex design and architecture. Staying updated with new programming languages and AI integrations is important for job relevance in this evolving field.

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

To thrive as a Lead Programmer, you need expertise in software development, advanced programming languages, and project management, often supported by a computer science degree or relevant certifications. Familiarity with version control systems (like Git), integrated development environments (IDEs), and agile methodologies is typically required. Leadership, problem-solving ability, and strong communication are essential soft skills to guide teams and coordinate stakeholders. These skills ensure efficient project delivery, high-quality code, and productive team collaboration in technical environments.

What is a lead programmer?

A lead programmer is a senior software developer responsible for guiding a development team, designing technical solutions, and ensuring project deadlines are met. They often coordinate tasks, review code, and communicate with stakeholders, requiring strong coding skills and leadership abilities.

What are Lead Programmers?

Lead Programmers, also known as Lead Developers, are senior software engineers responsible for guiding a team of programmers through the development lifecycle of a software project. They make crucial technical decisions, oversee code quality, and ensure that the team meets project requirements and deadlines. In addition to hands-on coding, Lead Programmers often coordinate with project managers and other departments, mentor junior developers, and help resolve technical challenges that arise during development.

What is the difference between Lead Programmer vs Software Developer?

AspectLead ProgrammerSoftware Developer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in Computer Science or related field; experience in coding and project leadershipBachelor's degree in Computer Science or related field; strong coding skills
Work EnvironmentTeam leadership, project planning, code reviewIndividual coding, feature development
Employer & Industry UsageSoftware companies, tech firms, game developmentWide range of industries including tech, finance, healthcare
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding leadership roles in programming teamsFocus on coding and development tasks

The main difference between a Lead Programmer and a Software Developer lies in their responsibilities. Lead Programmers oversee project direction, coordinate teams, and review code, while Software Developers primarily focus on writing code and developing features. Both roles require strong programming skills and relevant education, but Lead Programmers have additional leadership duties within the development process.

More about Lead Programmer jobs
What cities are hiring for Lead Programmer jobs? Cities with the most Lead Programmer job openings:
Who are the top companies hiring for Lead Programmer jobs? The top employers for Lead Programmer jobs are:
What states have the most Lead Programmer jobs? States with the most job openings for Lead Programmer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Lead Programmer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $114,323 per year, or $55 per hour.

Lead z/OS Systems Programmer

She Recruits LLC

Pittsburgh, PA • On-site

$165K - $170K/yr

Other

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

Lead z/OS Systems Programmer
Locations:
• Jersey City, NJ
• Pittsburgh, PA
• Lake Mary, FL (Orlando area)
Employment Type: Full-Time
Work Environment: Hybrid - 3 Days Onsite Required
Compensation:
• Jersey City, NJ: $165,000 - $170,000
• Pittsburgh, PA: $140,000 - $150,000
• Lake Mary, FL: $140,000 - $150,000
Annual Bonus + Comprehensive Benefits Package
She Recruits is representing a Lead z/OS Systems Programmer opportunity supporting enterprise-level mainframe environments for a highly respected financial institution.
This is not a maintenance-level role. This is a senior, leadership-focused systems programming position designed for someone who understands mainframe internals at a deep technical level and can guide others while doing so.
Position Overview
The Lead z/OS Systems Programmer will serve as both a technical authority and a mentor within a large-scale enterprise mainframe environment. This role focuses on z/OS internals, product installation, performance optimization, and complex system debugging.
You will be expected to bring strong leadership presence, hands-on systems expertise, and the ability to support mission-critical infrastructure in a high-availability financial environment.
Core Responsibilities
• Lead z/OS systems programming initiatives across enterprise platforms
• Install, configure, and support IBM and CA z/OS products
• Provide technical mentorship and supervisory guidance to junior staff
• Analyze and tune mainframe performance
• Perform I/O configuration and optimization
• Develop and maintain user exits (REXX, COBOL, BAL/Assembler)
• Troubleshoot and debug complex system-level issues
• Support system upgrades, enhancements, and lifecycle planning
• Maintain system stability, availability, and compliance standards
Required Expertise
• Proven experience as a Lead z/OS Systems Programmer
• Deep understanding of z/OS internals
• Strong product installation and support experience (IBM and CA products)
• I/O configuration expertise
• Mainframe performance monitoring and tuning experience
• Advanced debugging skills
• Experience developing user exits (REXX, COBOL, Assembler)
• Demonstrated leadership or supervisory experience
Ideal Candidate Profile
This role is best suited for someone who:
• Operates confidently at the systems internals level
• Has led technical teams or mentored junior programmers
• Understands enterprise financial environments
• Thrives in hybrid collaborative environments
• Can balance hands-on technical work with leadership responsibility
Why This Role Stands Out
• True leadership-level z/OS role
• Enterprise-scale mainframe environment
• Strong compensation aligned with geography
• Annual bonus structure
• Hybrid flexibility
• Exceptional benefits package