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Mainframe Developer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Mainframe Developer

Davenport, IA · On-site

$46.50 - $59.75/hr

Our Davenport, IA client has an immediate opening for a talented Mainframe Developer. If you are interested, please send your resume to Dani at dedgington@saigepartners.com As our client continues to ...

Mainframe Developer

Davenport, IA · On-site

$46.50 - $59.75/hr

The successful Mainframe Developer will play a critical role in deciphering the functionality of the existing codebase, translating it into clear specifications, and facilitating our modernization ...

Mainframe Developer

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$47.75 - $61.50/hr

Mainframe Developer Location: Des Moines, IA Full-Time Qualifications Additional Information All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

About the Role Are you a seasoned Mainframe Specialist with deep, hands-on command of COBOL, JCL ... Partner with cross-functional teams-architects, developers, QA, and business analysts-to gather ...

Various mainframe applications exist in various systems. The ideal candidate will be able to navigate the mainframe to identify all the programs and identify various dependencies between different ...

Various mainframe applications exist in various systems. The ideal candidate will be able to navigate the mainframe to identify all the programs and identify various dependencies between different ...

COBOL Developer

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$49 - $66.25/hr

We are seeking a seasoned COBOL Developer with 6+ years of experience in mainframe application development and support . The ideal candidate should have strong expertise in COBOL, JCL, DB2, and ...

COBOL Developer

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$95K - $115K/yr

Position: COBOL Developer Location: Des Moines, IA - Hybrid Salary: $95,000 - $115,000 base ... COBOL - All Versions, Mainframe Application, IBM Mainframe, AS400, HP3000, HP9000, UNIX, Linux

Software Engineer III

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$85 - $134/hr

Proficiency with database applications, knowledge of mainframe, distributed and/or web programming language * Basic leadership and presentation skills required * Excellent time management skills ...

Developers need to possess the skills of full stack development and understand business processes and have domain knowledge. The Developer I will be part of an agile development team, building and ...

Lee Enterprises is seeking a skilled Application Developer to design, build, and maintain applications that support our subscription, payment, circulation, and news systems . This role is focused on ...

Lee Enterprises is seeking a skilled Application Developer to design, build, and maintain applications that support our subscription, payment, circulation, and news systems . This role is focused on ...

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Mainframe Developer information

See Iowa salary details

$9

$50

$67

How much do mainframe developer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for mainframe developer in Iowa is $50.14, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44.23 and $56.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is a mainframe developer hard to learn?

Mainframe developers typically need to learn specialized programming languages like COBOL and understand mainframe environments, which can have a steep learning curve for beginners. However, with prior programming experience and training, acquiring the necessary skills is achievable, and many employers offer on-the-job training or certification programs.

What is the difference between Mainframe Developer vs Mainframe Analyst?

AspectMainframe DeveloperMainframe Analyst
Primary RoleDesigning, coding, and testing mainframe applicationsAnalyzing and maintaining existing mainframe systems
Skills & CertificationsCOBOL, JCL, DB2, certifications like IBM Certified DeveloperCOBOL, JCL, system analysis, troubleshooting skills
Work EnvironmentDevelopment teams, coding in mainframe environmentsSupport teams, system analysis, user support
Industry UsageFinancial services, insurance, government agenciesFinancial institutions, healthcare, government agencies

While Mainframe Developers focus on creating and implementing mainframe applications, Mainframe Analysts primarily analyze, troubleshoot, and maintain existing systems. Both roles require similar technical skills and often work within the same industries, but their core responsibilities differ in development versus support and analysis.

What are some common challenges mainframe developers face when integrating legacy systems with modern applications?

Mainframe Developers often encounter challenges such as ensuring compatibility between legacy systems and newer technologies, managing data migration without disrupting business operations, and maintaining the security of sensitive data. Effective communication with cross-functional teams, such as application developers and infrastructure engineers, is essential to address these challenges. Staying updated on both mainframe and modern programming practices helps ease integration and ensures long-term system reliability.

Is a mainframe developer a good career?

A mainframe developer is a specialized IT professional who maintains and develops applications on mainframe systems, which are used by large organizations for critical operations. The role offers stable employment, competitive salaries, and requires skills in languages like COBOL and tools such as JCL. Demand remains steady in industries like finance and government, making it a viable career choice for those with relevant expertise.

What is a mainframe developer?

Mainframe Developers are specialized software engineers who design, develop, maintain, and troubleshoot applications on mainframe computer systems, such as IBM's z/OS. They typically work with languages like COBOL, JCL, and CICS, and are responsible for ensuring the performance, security, and reliability of mission-critical business applications. Mainframe Developers are commonly employed in industries like banking, insurance, and government, where large-scale, high-volume transaction processing is essential.

Is mainframe developer still in demand?

Mainframe developers are still in demand in industries such as finance, government, and insurance that rely on legacy systems. They typically work with COBOL, JCL, and mainframe environments, and demand remains steady due to the ongoing need for system maintenance and integration. However, the overall job market is gradually shifting toward modern technologies, so acquiring skills in related areas can enhance job prospects.

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

To thrive as a Mainframe Developer, you need expertise in programming languages such as COBOL, JCL, and SQL, along with a strong understanding of mainframe operating systems and batch processing concepts. Familiarity with tools like IBM z/OS, DB2, CICS, and version control systems is typically required, and certifications from IBM or related organizations can be beneficial. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help Mainframe Developers excel in troubleshooting and collaborating with cross-functional teams. These skills are crucial for maintaining, optimizing, and modernizing legacy systems that are vital to many large organizations’ operations.

What are the most commonly searched types of Mainframe Developer jobs in Iowa?

The most popular types of Mainframe Developer jobs in Iowa are:

What are popular job titles related to Mainframe Developer jobs in Iowa?

For Mainframe Developer jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Mainframe Developer jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Mainframe Developer jobs in Iowa are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Mainframe Developer jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Mainframe Developer job openings:

Infographic showing various Mainframe Developer job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, and 18% Contract. Highlights an 87% In-person, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $104,283 per year, or $50.1 per hour.

Mainframe Developer

Saige Partners

Davenport, IA • On-site

$46.50 - $59.75/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago


Job description

Job Description We strive to be Your Future, Your Solution to accelerate your career. Our Davenport, IA client has an immediate opening for a talented Mainframe Developer. If you are interested, please send your resume to Dani at dedgington@saigepartners.com

As our client continues to integrate their Mainframe system into our infrastructure, they require a skilled Mainframe Developer to assist in the analysis and translation of existing legacy COBOL, JCL, and PL/1 code. The successful Mainframe Developer will play a critical role in deciphering the functionality of the existing codebase, translating it into clear specifications, and facilitating our modernization efforts. Key Responsibilities: Analyze existing legacy COBOL, JCL, and PL/1 code within the IBM Mainframe environment.

Break down complex code structures to understand underlying functionality and business logic. Translate legacy code into modern, digestible specifications to guide modernization efforts. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure accurate interpretation of code requirements.

Provide expertise and guidance on Mainframe system architecture and codebase. Qualifications: Extensive hands-on experience with IBM Mainframe, COBOL, JCL, and PL/1 code. Proven track record of "forensic" analysis and interpretation of Mainframe codebases.

Ability to dissect complex code structures and translate them into clear, actionable specifications. Strong consultative skills with the ability to collaborate effectively across teams. Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or related field preferred.

If you are passionate about Mainframe technology and possess the skills and experience required for this role, we encourage you to apply today. This is a Direct Hire role. Saige Partners, one of the fastest-growing technology and talent companies in the Midwest, believes in people with a passion for helping them succeed.

We are in the business of helping professionals Build Careers, Not Jobs. Saige Partners believes employees are the most valuable asset to building a thriving and successful company culture. Contact us to learn more about the opportunity below or check out other opportunities at https://careers.saigepartners.com/.