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Mainframe Applications Developer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

COBOL/Mainframe Developer

Albany, NY ยท On-site

$48.75 - $62.50/hr

Experience with CA-InterTest for debugging and testing COBOL applications in mainframe environments. * Proven track record as a Lead Programmer, responsible for guiding development teams and ...

Mainframe developer- W2

Omaha, NE ยท On-site

$46.75 - $60.25/hr

Mainframe Developer Location: Omaha, NE (Onsite - 5 days a week) * We are seeking a skilled ... Design, develop, maintain, and enhance mainframe applications using COBOL, CICS, JCL, DB2, and VSAM.

Position Summary The Programmer for Mainframe Systems will support, enhance, and maintain missionโ€‘critical applications that underpin the MNR Crew Management System (CMS). This role focuses on ...

Mainframe Developer

Phoenix, AZ ยท On-site

$48.75 - $62.50/hr

We are looking for an experienced Mainframe Developer. The ideal candidate should have hands-on ... Design, develop, test, and maintain Mainframe applications. * Analyze business requirements and ...

Position Summary The Programmer for Mainframe Systems will support, enhance, and maintain mission critical applications that underpin the MNR Crew Management System (CMS). This role focuses on daily ...

Mainframe / COBOL Developer

New York, NY ยท On-site

$53.50 - $69/hr

Minimum of five (7) years of recent experience developing applications using Cobol for CICS and ... Strong experience developing in Mainframe environment resolving complex and conflicting design ...

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Mainframe Applications Developer information

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How much do mainframe applications developer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for mainframe applications 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 a Mainframe Applications Developer?

A Mainframe Applications Developer is an IT professional who designs, develops, and maintains software applications that run on mainframe computers. Mainframes are powerful computing systems used by large organizations for critical applications, such as banking, insurance, and government systems. These developers typically work with programming languages like COBOL, JCL, and CICS, and ensure that mainframe applications are efficient, secure, and reliable. Their responsibilities also include troubleshooting issues, optimizing performance, and supporting system integration with modern technologies.

How does a Mainframe Applications Developer typically collaborate with business analysts and other IT teams during a project?

Mainframe Applications Developers regularly work with business analysts to clarify requirements, translate business needs into technical specifications, and ensure that solutions meet organizational objectives. They often participate in cross-functional meetings with infrastructure, quality assurance, and operations teams to coordinate deployments, troubleshoot issues, and optimize performance. Effective communication and collaboration are essential, as developers must align their code with broader system architectures and adhere to change management processes. This teamwork ensures smooth project delivery and ongoing system reliability.

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

AspectMainframe Applications DeveloperMainframe Systems Analyst
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Computer Science or related, certifications like IBM Certified DeveloperBachelor's in Computer Science, certifications like IBM Certified Specialist
Work EnvironmentDevelops and codes mainframe applications, often in COBOL or PL/IAnalyzes system requirements, designs solutions, and supports mainframe systems
Employer & Industry UsageFinancial institutions, government agencies, large corporationsSame industries, focusing on system analysis and optimization
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding development roles in mainframe environmentsUnderstanding analysis and support roles in mainframe systems

The Mainframe Applications Developer primarily focuses on coding and building mainframe applications, while the Mainframe Systems Analyst concentrates on analyzing, designing, and supporting mainframe systems. Both roles are essential in mainframe environments, often working together to ensure system efficiency and functionality.

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

To thrive as a Mainframe Applications Developer, you need strong programming skills in COBOL, JCL, and related legacy languages, along with a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with mainframe operating systems like IBM z/OS, database systems such as DB2, and tools like CICS or IMS is typically required, and certifications from IBM can be advantageous. Analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication are vital soft skills for debugging complex code and collaborating with cross-functional teams. These skills and qualities are crucial to maintain, modernize, and ensure the reliability of mission-critical mainframe applications in large organizations.
More about Mainframe Applications Developer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Mainframe Applications Developer jobs? The most popular types of Mainframe Applications Developer jobs are:
What job categories do people searching Mainframe Applications Developer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Mainframe Applications Developer jobs are:
What are popular job titles related to Mainframe Applications Developer jobs? For Mainframe Applications Developer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Mainframe Applications Developer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $101,800 per year, or $48.9 per hour.
COBOL Mainframe Programmer/Developer - Atlanta, GA - (JK)

COBOL Mainframe Programmer/Developer - Atlanta, GA - (JK)

Central Business Solutions

Newark, CA โ€ข On-site

$55 - $70.75/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago


Job description


We are seeking an experienced COBOL Developer to support and enhance enterprise mainframe applications. The ideal candidate will work on maintaining legacy systems, developing new functionalities, and supporting critical business operations in a fast-paced environment.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Develop, maintain, and enhance COBOL-based mainframe applications.
  • Analyze business and technical requirements to implement system changes.
  • Work with JCL, DB2, VSAM, CICS, and batch processing environments.
  • Troubleshoot production issues, perform debugging, and provide system support.
  • Participate in code reviews, testing, deployment, and documentation activities.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams including analysts, QA, and support teams.
  • Support system modernization and performance improvement initiatives.

Required Skills:
  • Strong experience in COBOL programming on mainframe systems.
  • Hands-on experience with JCL, DB2, CICS, VSAM, and batch jobs.
  • Knowledge of SDLC, software maintenance, and production support processes.
  • Ability to analyze and resolve complex technical issues.
  • Good communication and teamwork skills.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience in banking, insurance, healthcare, or financial services domains.
  • Exposure to Agile methodologies and DevOps practices.
  • Familiarity with mainframe modernization projects is a plus.