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Mainframe Application Developer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

WATI

Mainframe Application Developer

Sacramento, CA · On-site

Mainframe Application Developer Sacramento, CA 12+ Months Onsite Position - Locals Only Design, build, test, implement, and maintain software applications using OS/VS Cobol with Report Writer ...

Kyyba

Senior Mainframe Application Developer

Wilmington, DE · On-site

$47.50 - $61/hr

Senior Mainframe Application Developer Location : Wilmington, DE Onsite Contract RTTO - 5 Days Onsite Mandatory Skills - IBM-Z/OS COBOL, CICS, DB2, IBM MQ, VSAM, JCL, CA7, Changeman and IBM Mainframe ...

Kyndryl

COBOL Mainframe Application Developer

Harrisburg, PA · On-site

$48.50 - $62.25/hr

As a COBOL Mainframe Application Developer, you will work directly with the Department of Labor client personnel as a consultant to support development on their existing Unemployment and Disability ...

Kyndryl

COBOL Mainframe Application Developer

Concord, NC · On-site

$45.75 - $58.75/hr

As a COBOL Mainframe Application Developer, you will work directly with the Department of Labor client personnel as a consultant to support development on their existing Unemployment and Disability ...

Kyndryl

$49 - $63/hr

As a COBOL Mainframe Application Developer, you will work directly with the Department of Labor client personnel as a consultant to support development on their existing Unemployment and Disability ...

Kyndryl

COBOL Mainframe Application Developer

Dallas, TX

$48.50 - $62.25/hr

As a COBOL Mainframe Application Developer, you will work directly with the Department of Labor client personnel as a consultant to support development on their existing Unemployment and Disability ...

Kyndryl

COBOL Mainframe Application Developer

Dallas, TX · On-site

$48.75 - $62.50/hr

As a COBOL Mainframe Application Developer, you will work directly with the Department of Labor client personnel as a consultant to support development on their existing Unemployment and Disability ...

Kyndryl

COBOL Mainframe Application Developer

Tallahassee, FL · On-site

$42.50 - $54.50/hr

As a COBOL Mainframe Application Developer, you will work directly with the Department of Labor client personnel as a consultant to support development on their existing Unemployment and Disability ...

Kyndryl

COBOL Mainframe Application Developer

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

$46.75 - $60.25/hr

As a COBOL Mainframe Application Developer, you will work directly with the Department of Labor client personnel as a consultant to support development on their existing Unemployment and Disability ...

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Mainframe Application Developer information

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$10

$48

$66

How much do mainframe application developer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for mainframe application developer in the United States is $48.94, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43.51 and $56.97 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Mainframe Application Developer vs Mainframe Systems Analyst?

AspectMainframe Application DeveloperMainframe Systems Analyst
Primary RoleDesigning, coding, and testing mainframe applicationsAnalyzing system requirements and optimizing mainframe processes
Skills & CertificationsCOBOL, JCL, DB2, certifications in mainframe developmentSystem analysis, troubleshooting, and documentation skills
Work EnvironmentDevelopment teams, coding in mainframe environmentsCollaborating with users and IT teams to improve systems
Industry UsageFinancial services, insurance, government agenciesSame industries, focusing on system analysis and process improvement

While both roles work within mainframe environments and require similar certifications, Mainframe Application Developers focus on creating and maintaining mainframe applications, whereas Mainframe Systems Analysts analyze and improve existing systems and processes. Both roles are essential in industries relying on mainframe technology, but their daily tasks and focus areas differ.

What are mainframe application developers?

Mainframe application developers are IT professionals who design, develop, maintain, and support software applications that run on mainframe computers. These specialists work with programming languages like COBOL, PL/I, or Assembler and use tools specific to mainframe environments such as IBM z/OS. Their responsibilities often include updating legacy systems, ensuring software reliability, and integrating mainframe applications with modern technologies. They play a crucial role in industries like banking, insurance, and government, where mainframes are essential for handling large-scale transaction processing.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Mainframe Application Developer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Mainframe Application Developer, you need expertise in COBOL, JCL, DB2, and a solid understanding of mainframe operating systems, often backed by a degree in computer science or related fields. Familiarity with tools like IBM z/OS, TSO/ISPF, and version control systems such as Endevor is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication skills set successful developers apart in this role. These competencies are crucial for maintaining legacy systems, ensuring data integrity, and supporting critical business operations efficiently.

How does a Mainframe Application Developer typically interact with cross-functional teams in an organization?

Mainframe Application Developers often collaborate closely with business analysts, QA testers, and infrastructure teams to ensure applications meet business requirements and integrate smoothly with other systems. They participate in regular meetings to discuss project updates, troubleshoot issues, and clarify technical specifications. Effective communication is key, as developers may need to explain complex mainframe concepts to non-technical stakeholders and work with diverse teams to deliver high-quality, reliable software solutions.
More about Mainframe Application Developer jobs
What states have the most Mainframe Application Developer jobs? States with the most job openings for Mainframe Application Developer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Mainframe Application Developer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Mainframe Application Developer jobs are:
Mainframe Application Developer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Mainframe Application Developer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 42% Full Time, and 58% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $101,800 per year, or $48.9 per hour.
Mainframe Application Developer IV

Mainframe Application Developer IV

DP Professionals

Columbia, SC • On-site

Other

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Mainframe Application Developer

DPP is seeking a Mainframe Application Developer for an opportunity with our client in the healthcare insurance industry. Work location: Partial onsite (onsite Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and as needed) in Columbia, SC Duration: 12 months Terms: W2 contract Position summary:

Responsible for analysis, design, programming, and implementation of complex applications tasks and projects.

Required:

  • Mainframe background (COBOL, JCL, DB2, and/or IMS)

Preferred:

  • Leadership/task management experience
  • CICS

Minimum required work experience:

  • 6 years of application development, systems testing or other job-related experience.

Required education/equivalencies:

  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or other job-related degree;
  • OR, Associates degree in CS, IT, or other job-related degree plus 2 years of work-related experience; OR, 4 years job-related work experience (total 10 years without a degree)

Interested? Learn more: Click the apply button or contact our recruiter Jason at Jason.Slabaugh@dppit.com to learn more about this position (# 26-00663 ). Authorized US Worker - US Citizens and those authorized to work in the US are encouraged to apply. We are unable to sponsor at this time. EOE/AA/V/D DPP offers a range of compensation and benefits packages to our employees and their eligible dependents. Call today to learn more about working with DPP.

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