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Mainframe Developer Jobs in Buffalo Grove, IL (NOW HIRING)

Mainframe Modernization Lead

Chicago, IL · On-site

$98K - $233K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Business, Computer Engineering, or related field (advanced degree preferred ... ai etc.) to modernize mainframe infrastructure and applications * 15+ years in Application ...

z/OS Connect API Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$73K - $174K/yr

DB2 * RACF Development & DevOps * GitHub * CI/CD Pipelines * Git-based Version Control * Gradle Build Automation Additional Competencies * API Design and Development Best Practices * Mainframe ...

Cobol Developer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$90K - $118K/yr

Dearborn, MI Job SummaryWe are seeking an experienced Mainframe/COBOL Developer to support a critical legacy insurance platform (CPS) and assist with data preparation activities for migration to ...

Cobol Developer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$90K - $118K/yr

Analyze and process mainframe flat files and COBOL copybooks, including complex redefined ... engineering, all fueled by its market leading capabilities in AI, generative AI, cloud and data ...

Analyze and process mainframe flat files and COBOL copybooks, including complex redefined ... engineering, all fueled by its market leading capabilities in AI, generative AI, cloud and data ...

Job Requirements Lead Mainframe Architect DevOps Modernization Role Description Seeking an experienced Lead Mainframe Architect with strong expertise in IBM Z DevOps and enterprise modernization. The ...

We are searching for a Lead Mainframe Storage Engineer to join the Z Infrastructure team responsible for providing a highly available Z Compute and Storage platform, resilient against infra failures ...

Hadoop Developer Location: Riverwoods, IL Duration: Fulltime BGV will be done for the selected ... systems/mainframe and vice-versa. 3+ years' experience in Importing and exporting the data using ...

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Mainframe Developer information

See Buffalo Grove, IL salary details

$10

$54

$74

How much do mainframe developer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for mainframe developer in Buffalo Grove, IL is $54.74, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48.32 and $62.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 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.

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.

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 data processing. The role offers stable employment, competitive salaries, and opportunities to work with legacy technologies like COBOL and JCL, but it may require ongoing learning of evolving mainframe tools and certifications. Overall, it can be a good career for those interested in enterprise computing and system stability.

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.

Is mainframe developer still in demand?

Mainframe developers are still in demand in industries such as finance, insurance, and government, where legacy systems remain critical. They typically work with COBOL, JCL, and mainframe environments, and demand depends on the organization's reliance on mainframe technology and ongoing maintenance needs.

What are popular job titles related to Mainframe Developer jobs in Buffalo Grove, IL?

For Mainframe Developer jobs in Buffalo Grove, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Mainframe Developer jobs in Buffalo Grove, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Mainframe Developer jobs in Buffalo Grove, IL are:

What cities near Buffalo Grove, IL are hiring for Mainframe Developer jobs?

Cities near Buffalo Grove, IL with the most Mainframe Developer job openings:

Infographic showing various Mainframe Developer job openings in Buffalo Grove, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 13% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 80% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $113,862 per year, or $54.7 per hour.

Infrastructure Engineer Sr - RACF/Mainframe

Downers Grove, IL • On-site

PNC Bank
Banking and Credit Intermediation • 10K+ employees

$65K - $194K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago


PNC Bank rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 348 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Position OverviewAt PNC, our people are our greatest differentiator and competitive advantage in the markets we serve. We are all united in delivering the best experience for our customers. We work together each day to foster an inclusive workplace culture where all of our employees feel respected, valued and have an opportunity to contribute to the company's success. As an Infrastructure Engineer Sr within PNC's Enterprise Technology organization, you will be based in Pittsburgh, PA, Dallas, TX, Birmingham, AL, Cleveland, OH, Phoenix, AZ, Atlanta, GA, Charlotte, NC, Chicago, IL, Columbus, OH, Houston, TX, Jacksonville, FL, Richmond, VA, Philadelphia, PA, Miamisburg, OH, Raleigh, NC, Denver, CO or Washington, DC.
Due to the nature of this position we are seeking passionate IT Engineers. Candidates should have experience with the following:
1) Mainframe Security & Platform Software Maintenance
Own security administration and product installs for the mainframe infrastructure platform team-covering ACF2/RACF policy updates, CF structure changes, log exchange configuration, and security-related support (certificates, keyrings, IOGENs).
Plan and execute semiannual mainframe software maintenance (SMP/E apply/accept, product upgrades, and fixes), ensuring stable change implementation that safely impacts most of the bank's z/OS environments.
2) Mainframe Networking & Connectivity Services
Engineer and support network stack components including OSAs, TCP/IP, VTAM, OpenSSH, and Unix System Services to maintain resilient, highthroughput connectivity across LPARs and enterprise endpoints.
Monitor, troubleshoot, and optimize communications (routes, ports, encryption ciphers, AT-TLS/policies, interface definitions) to improve availability and performance while adhering to bank security standards.PNC is an in-office company that fosters a supportive culture where employees can thrive and achieve balance. We encourage candidates to connect with their recruiter and hiring manager to understand workplace expectations and ensure the role aligns with their goals.PNC will not provide sponsorship for employment visas or participate in STEM OPT for this position.Job Description
  • Provides expertise on platform engineering, while overseeing the team's effort and meeting customer needs. Uses technical knowledge and industry experience to design, build and maintain technology solutions.
  • Develops software components and hardware for complex projects; aligns these with business strategies and objectives.
  • Provides expertise on best practices, standards, engineering approaches and complex technical resolutions for processes.
  • Places emphasis on quality improvement efforts; ensures that deliverables are secure, scalable and reliable through estimation and correction.
  • Communicates with customers and integrates their needs with development, to meet business objectives.

PNC Employees take pride in our reputation and to continue building upon that we expect our employees to be:

  • Customer Focused - Knowledgeable of the values and practices that align customer needs and satisfaction as primary considerations in all business decisions and able to leverage that information in creating customized customer solutions.
  • Managing Risk - Assessing and effectively managing all of the risks associated with their business objectives and activities to ensure they adhere to and support PNC's Enterprise Risk Management Framework.
Qualifications

Successful candidates must demonstrate appropriate knowledge, skills, and abilities for a role. Listed below are skills, competencies, work experience, education, and required certifications/licensures needed to be successful in this position.

Preferred SkillsCompetitive Advantages, Customer Solutions, Design, Enterprise Architecture Framework, Machine Learning (ML), Project Management, Risk Analysis, Risk Assessments, Risk Management, Technical Knowledge, Technology DevelopmentCompetenciesApplication Delivery Process, Consulting, Effectiveness Measurement, Industry Knowledge, IT Industry: Trends & Directions, IT Standards, Procedures & Policies, Planning: Tactical, Strategic, Problem SolvingWork ExperienceRoles at this level typically require a university / college degree, with 5+ years of industry-relevant experience. Specific certifications are often required. In lieu of a degree, a comparable combination of education, job specific certification(s), and experience (including military service) may be considered.EducationBachelorsCertificationsNo Required Certification(s)LicensesNo Required License(s)Pay TransparencyBase Salary: $65,000.00 - $194,350.00Salaries may vary based on geographic location, market data and on individual skills, experience, and education. This role is incentive eligible with the payment based upon company, business and/or individual performance.Application WindowGenerally, this opening is expected to be posted for two business days from 03/10/2026, although it may be longer with business discretion.BenefitsPNC offers a comprehensive range of benefits to help meet your needs now and in the future. Depending on your eligibility, options for full-time employees include: medical/prescription drug coverage (with a Health Savings Account feature), dental and vision options; employee and spouse/child life insurance; short and long-term disability protection; 401(k) with PNC match, pension and stock purchase plans; dependent care reimbursement account; back-up child/elder care; adoption, surrogacy, and doula reimbursement; educational assistance, including select programs fully paid; a robust wellness program with financial incentives.In addition, PNC generally provides the following paid time off, depending on your eligibility: maternity and/or parental leave; up to 11 paid holidays each year; 9 occasional absence days each year, unless otherwise required by law; between 15 to 25 vacation days each year, depending on career level; and years of service.

To learn more about these and other programs, including benefits for full time and part-time employees, visitpncthrive.com.

Disability Accommodations Statement

If an accommodation is required to participate in the application process, please contact us via email at AccommodationRequest@pnc.com. Please include "accommodation request" in the subject line title and be sure to include your name, the job ID, and your preferred method of contact in the body of the email. Emails not related to accommodation requests will not receive responses. Applicants may also call 877-968-7762 and say "Workday" for accommodation assistance. All information provided will be kept confidential and will be used only to the extent required to provide needed reasonable accommodations.


At PNC we foster an inclusive and accessible workplace. We provide reasonable accommodations to employment applicants and qualified individuals with a disability who need an accommodation to perform the essential functions of their positions.

Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO)


PNC provides equal employment opportunity to qualified persons regardless of race, color, sex, religion, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, veteran status, or other categories protected by law.

This position is subject to the requirements of Section 19 of the Federal Deposit Insurance Act (FDIA) and, for any registered role, the Secure and Fair Enforcement for Mortgage Licensing Act of 2008 (SAFE Act) and/or the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA), which prohibit the hiring of individuals with certain criminal history.

California Residents

Refer to the California Consumer Privacy Act Privacy Notice to gain understanding of how PNC may use or disclose your personal information in our hiring practices.


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