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Mainframe Application Development Jobs in Chicago, IL

Samprasoft

Mainframe Systems Analyst

Chicago, IL · On-site

Knowledge of mainframe application development & configuration * Knowledge of mainframe technologies: COBOL, CICS, JCL, DB2, VSAM, Batch jobs and Procedures * Experience with Source Code management ...

Georgia IT Inc

Mainframe Developer

Hoffman Estates, IL · On-site

$48 - $61.75/hr

Application development, maintenance activities involved in Mainframe Development /Support projects * Requirements Analysis, Design, Coding, Reviews, Unit testing. * Deployments in various regions.

Capgemini

Mainframe Developer - Onsite Chicago, IL

Chicago, IL · On-site

$50.50 - $65/hr

Key Responsibilities Mainframe Development & Support • Develop, enhance, and maintain applications using COBOL, JCL, VSAM, and DB2. • Troubleshoot, debug, and resolve mainframe application issues ...

Capgemini

Mainframe Developer - Onsite Chicago, IL

Chicago, IL · On-site

$50.50 - $65/hr

Key Responsibilities Mainframe Development & Support • Develop, enhance, and maintain applications using COBOL, JCL, VSAM, and DB2. • Troubleshoot, debug, and resolve mainframe application issues ...

United Airlines

Managing Project Manager

Chicago, IL

$88K - $207K/yr

Experienced in Assessment and Strategy Development by evaluating mainframe application landscape, identifying legacy systems, and analyzing their technical debt. * Defining a comprehensive ...

360 IT Professionals

Java/J2EE Architect

Chicago, IL · On-site

$65 - $87.50/hr

... application development. We are emerging as one of the largest private talent sourcing and ... between mainframe application systems and various IBM and Microsoft Server Operation Systems ...

Collabera

System Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$68 - $75/hr

The position will require significant interaction with Business Users and Application Development team in addition to working with other Mainframe support groups such as Operating System, Data Base ...

Trans.eu

Mainframe Programmer

Chicago, IL · On-site

... application systems and identify opportunities to fine-tune and optimize applications of developed ... IT IS_AMS_Mainframe_CICS Administration

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Mainframe Application Development information

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How much do mainframe application development jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for mainframe application development in Chicago, IL is $50.42, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44.81 and $58.70 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is mainframe developer a good career?

Mainframe application development is a stable career with high demand in industries like finance and government that rely on legacy systems. It requires knowledge of languages such as COBOL and tools like JCL, and offers opportunities for specialization and certification. The role often involves working with large-scale, mission-critical systems and can provide long-term job security.

Can AI replace mainframe?

Mainframe application development involves maintaining and updating large-scale, mission-critical systems. While AI can assist with tasks like code analysis and automation, it is unlikely to fully replace mainframe developers, as expertise in legacy systems, security, and complex business logic remains essential. AI tools are more likely to augment rather than replace the role of mainframe application developers.

What is mainframe application development?

Mainframe application development involves creating and maintaining software applications that run on large-scale mainframe computers, often using languages like COBOL, PL/I, or Assembler. Developers in this field focus on building reliable, secure, and high-performance systems for enterprise operations, frequently working with legacy systems and mainframe-specific tools such as JCL and CICS.

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

AspectMainframe Application DevelopmentMainframe Systems Analyst
Primary RoleDesigning, coding, and testing mainframe applicationsAnalyzing, designing, and supporting mainframe systems and processes
Skills & CertificationsCOBOL, JCL, DB2, certifications in mainframe developmentCOBOL, JCL, system analysis, certifications in systems analysis
Work EnvironmentDevelopment teams, coding environments, project-basedOperations teams, system support, troubleshooting
Industry UsageFinancial services, insurance, government agenciesFinancial institutions, healthcare, government agencies

While both roles work within mainframe environments, Mainframe Application Developers focus on creating and maintaining applications, whereas Mainframe Systems Analysts analyze and support existing systems and processes. Both roles require similar skills and certifications but serve different functions within mainframe operations.

What is the salary of a mainframe developer?

The salary of a mainframe application developer typically ranges from $70,000 to $120,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Senior developers with specialized skills in COBOL, JCL, or mainframe tools may earn higher salaries, especially in industries like finance and government. Compensation can also include benefits such as bonuses and retirement plans.
What are popular job titles related to Mainframe Application Development jobs in Chicago, IL? For Mainframe Application Development jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Mainframe Application Development jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Mainframe Application Development jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Mainframe Application Development jobs near you
Job Title: Senior Mainframe Programmer

Job Title: Senior Mainframe Programmer

Apolis

Chicago, IL • On-site

Other

Posted 2 days ago

Job description

Senior Mainframe Programmer

We are seeking an experienced Senior Mainframe Programmer with strong expertise in mainframe application development and support. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience working with COBOL, DB2, CICS, VSAM, and JCL in enterprise environments.

Key Responsibilities
  • Develop, enhance, and maintain enterprise mainframe applications.
  • Analyze business requirements and provide technical solutions.
  • Perform coding, testing, debugging, and production support.
  • Optimize application performance and resolve production issues.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams throughout the software development lifecycle.
  • Participate in code reviews and ensure adherence to development standards.
Required Skills
  • 12+ years of overall IT experience.
  • 8+ years of hands-on experience in Mainframe development.
  • Strong expertise in COBOL, VSAM, DB2, CICS, and JCL.
  • Experience with application maintenance, enhancements, and production support.
  • Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills.
  • Excellent communication and collaboration skills.
Preferred Skills
  • Experience with Git version control.
  • Familiarity with IBM Developer for z/OS (IDz).
  • Experience working in Agile environments.

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