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Mainframe Assembler Programmer Jobs in Ontario (NOW HIRING)

As a Mainframe Developer, you'll lead the planning, technical design, and development of complex ... You'll assemble, implement, and maintain flexible solutions that enhance the client experience and ...

As a Mainframe Developer, you'll lead the planning, technical design, and development of complex ... You'll assemble, implement, and maintain flexible solutions that enhance the client experience and ...

Mainframe experience: * COBOL, JCL, IMS DB/DC environment, IMS Databases, DB2, MQ, Endevor, CA7 ... Nice to have - SAS, Assembler, IBM Pervasive Encryption * Strength in developing effective ...

Mainframe Assembler Programmer information

See Ontario salary details

$10

$44

$81

How much do mainframe assembler programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for mainframe assembler programmer in Ontario is $44.92, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.36 and $58.89 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a mainframe assembler programmer?

A Mainframe Assembler Programmer is responsible for writing, maintaining, and optimizing assembly language programs that run on mainframe computers. They work with low-level machine instructions to develop high-performance applications, often in industries like banking, insurance, and government. Their role includes debugging, performance tuning, and integrating new or existing software with mainframe systems. Strong knowledge of IBM mainframes, z/OS, and tools like High-Level Assembler (HLASM) is essential.

What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities of a mainframe assembler programmer?

As a Mainframe Assembler Programmer, your daily tasks often include writing, testing, and debugging assembler code to support core business applications and system utilities. You’ll work closely with systems analysts, application developers, and operations teams to troubleshoot issues, optimize program performance, and implement software enhancements. Regular responsibilities may also involve reviewing system logs, maintaining documentation, and participating in system upgrades or migrations. The role often requires a proactive approach to problem-solving and collaboration within a structured, process-driven team environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a mainframe assembler programmer?

To thrive as a Mainframe Assembler Programmer, you need strong expertise in low-level programming, a deep understanding of mainframe architectures (such as IBM z/OS), and often a degree in computer science or related field. Familiarity with tools like TSO, ISPF, JCL, and debugging utilities, along with experience using source control and system monitoring software, is highly valued, and certifications in mainframe technology can be beneficial. Excellent problem-solving abilities, meticulous attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you succeed in complex, team-based environments. These technical and interpersonal abilities are critical for maintaining system reliability, ensuring performance, and supporting business operations across large-scale enterprises.

Are mainframe assembler programmer jobs in demand?

Mainframe assembler programmer jobs remain in demand in industries that rely on legacy systems, such as finance, government, and insurance. These roles require knowledge of mainframe environments, assembly language, and often involve maintaining or upgrading existing systems, with steady demand due to the continued use of mainframes in critical operations.

Is mainframe assembler programming difficult?

Mainframe assembler programming is considered complex due to its low-level nature, requiring a strong understanding of hardware architecture, memory management, and instruction sets. It often involves detailed coding and debugging, making it challenging for those without prior experience in systems programming or assembly language. Proficiency in tools like IBM's assembler and knowledge of mainframe environments are essential for success.

What does a mainframe assembler programmer do?

A mainframe assembler programmer writes and maintains low-level code in assembly language for mainframe computers, often working on system software, device drivers, or performance-critical applications. They use tools like IBM Assembler and need a strong understanding of hardware architecture and system operations to optimize performance and ensure reliable operation.

What are popular job titles related to Mainframe Assembler Programmer jobs in Ontario?

For Mainframe Assembler Programmer jobs in Ontario, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Mainframe Assembler Programmer jobs in Ontario look for?

The top searched job categories for Mainframe Assembler Programmer jobs in Ontario are:

Infographic showing various Mainframe Assembler Programmer job openings in Ontario as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 5% Contract, and 4% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $93,443 per year, or $44.9 per hour.

Mainframe Developer

Toronto, ON • Hybrid

Full-time

Retirement

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

We're building a relationship-oriented bank for the modern world. We need talented, passionate professionals who are dedicated to doing what's right for our clients.

At CIBC, we embrace your strengths and your ambitions, so you are empowered at work. Our team members have what they need to make a meaningful impact and are truly valued for who they are and what they contribute.

To learn more about CIBC, please visit CIBC.com

What you'll be doing

You will be joining the Finance Technology at CIBC delivers innovative technology solutions that support our Finance business, enabling effective governance, operational excellence, and decision support. As a Mainframe Developer, you'll lead the planning, technical design, and development of complex, enterprise-scale applications. You'll assemble, implement, and maintain flexible solutions that enhance the client experience and support CIBC's digital transformation strategy. Your expertise will drive seamless integration of applications, align technology initiatives with business objectives, and ensure robust, scalable systems for financial, regulatory, and management reporting. You'll collaborate closely with business stakeholders, project managers, and technology teams, providing technical guidance and maintaining compliance with regulatory and information security standards.

At CIBC we enable the work environment most optimal for you to thrive in your role. You'll have the flexibility to manage your work activities within a hybrid work arrangement where you'll spend 1-3 days per week on-site, while other days will be remote.

How you'll succeed

  • Technical Leadership and Application Delivery - Lead the technical delivery of multiple, concurrent enterprise-scale projects, ensuring alignment with organizational standards and project objectives.
  • Application Development and Design - Design, develop, and implement end-to-end application solutions by writing efficient, maintainable code using COBOL, SAS, JCL, and DB2, adhering to best practices throughout the development lifecycle.
  • Systems Integration and Implementation - Participate in and conduct technical design, development, and integration of cross-functional, multi-platform systems to ensure seamless interoperability and alignment with business needs.
  • Troubleshooting and Compliance - Review, analyze, and modify programming systems to optimize performance, conduct comprehensive testing and debugging, and ensure adherence to regulatory and information security standards.
  • Relationship Management and Collaboration - Build and nurture strong relationships with technical team members, clients, vendors, and peers, collaborating with business stakeholders and technology teams to define requirements and deliver high-quality solutions.

Who you are

  • You can demonstrate at least 5 years of mainframe application development experience, with hands-on experience with JCL, COBOL, SAS, DB2, CA7 Scheduler, and SFTP file transfer tools.
  • You have strong technical leadership skills. You're comfortable leading complex projects and providing guidance on business implications of application development.
  • You're a strategic thinker and problem solver. Your analytical and planning skills help you identify and resolve issues efficiently, ensuring robust and reliable solutions.
  • You excel at building relationships, leading discussions, and working with diverse stakeholders to achieve business objectives.
  • You're client-focused and quality-driven. You're committed to delivering high-quality solutions that enhance the client experience.
  • Values matter to you. You bring your real self to work, and you live our values - trust, teamwork, and accountability.

What CIBC Offers

At CIBC, your goals are a priority. We start with your strengths and ambitions as an employee and strive to create opportunities to tap into your potential. We aspire to give you a career, rather than just a paycheck.

  • We work to recognize you in meaningful, personalized ways including a competitive salary, incentive pay, banking benefits, a benefits program*, defined benefit pension plan*, an employee share purchase plan, a vacation offering, wellbeing support, and MomentMakers, our social, points-based recognition program.

  • Our spaces and technological toolkit will make it simple to bring together great minds to create innovative solutions that make a difference for our clients.

  • We cultivate a culture where you can express your ambition through initiatives like Purpose Day; a paid day off dedicated for you to use to invest in your growth and development.

*Subject to plan and program terms and conditions

What you need to know

  • CIBC is committed to creating an inclusive environment where all team members and clients feel like they belong. We seek applicants with a wide range of abilities and we provide an accessible candidate experience. If you need accommodation, please contact Mailbox.careers-carrieres@cibc.com

  • CIBC is committed to clarity in our hiring process. All roles posted are opportunities we're actively recruiting for, unless stated otherwise.

  • You need to be legally eligible to work at the location(s) specified above and, where applicable, must have a valid work or study permit.

  • We may ask you to complete an attribute-based assessment and other skills test (such as simulation, coding, French proficiency).

  • We use artificial intelligence tools during the recruitment process. Our goal for the application process is to get to know more about you, all that you have to offer, and give you the opportunity to learn more about us.

Job Location

Toronto-81 Bay, 27th Floor

Employment Type

Regular

Weekly Hours

37.5

Skills

Analytical Thinking, Application Development, Applications Programming, Emerging Technologies, IT Strategic Planning, Mainframe Development, Mentoring Staff, Project Management Technology, Work Collaboratively