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Mainframe Developer Jobs in Houston, TX (NOW HIRING)

... not Z/OS, not mainframe). The ideal candidate will have a strong database development and ... Utilize IBM iSeries tools such as Aldon, RDI (Rational Developer for i), and ACS (Access Client ...

... not Z/OS, not mainframe). The ideal candidate will have a strong database development and ... Utilize IBM iSeries tools such as Aldon, RDI (Rational Developer for i), and ACS (Access Client ...

... not Z/OS, not mainframe). The ideal candidate will have a strong database development and ... Utilize IBM iSeries tools such as Aldon, RDI (Rational Developer for i), and ACS (Access Client ...

The ability to discuss complex technical concepts with engineers as well as end users Technology ... Mainframe/Telnet Terminals Using VMware Desktop (or VDIs in General) Authoring SQL DB Queries ...

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How much do mainframe developer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for mainframe developer in Houston, TX is $50.95, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44.95 and $57.84 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the salary of a mainframe developer?

The salary of a mainframe developer typically ranges from $70,000 to $120,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Senior roles or those with specialized skills in COBOL, JCL, or mainframe security may earn higher compensation.

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 mainframe hard to learn?

Mainframe development can be challenging for beginners due to its specialized programming languages like COBOL and its unique environment. However, with dedicated training and practice, many developers can acquire the necessary skills to work effectively on mainframe systems.

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 mainframe still in demand?

Mainframe developers are still in demand due to the continued reliance of many large organizations on mainframe systems for critical operations. Skills in COBOL, JCL, and mainframe security are valuable, and demand persists in industries like finance, insurance, and government. However, the overall number of roles is smaller compared to other modern development environments.

What are Mainframe Developers?

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, and why are they important?

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.

Can mainframe be replaced by AI?

Mainframe developers work with large-scale, legacy systems that require specialized knowledge of mainframe environments, programming languages, and security protocols. While AI can automate certain tasks like code analysis and testing, it is unlikely to fully replace mainframe developers due to the complexity and critical nature of mainframe systems. Instead, AI tools are used to augment their work and improve efficiency.
What are the most commonly searched types of Mainframe Developer jobs in Houston, TX? The most popular types of Mainframe Developer jobs in Houston, TX are:
What job categories do people searching Mainframe Developer jobs in Houston, TX look for? The top searched job categories for Mainframe Developer jobs in Houston, TX are:
What cities near Houston, TX are hiring for Mainframe Developer jobs? Cities near Houston, TX with the most Mainframe Developer job openings:
Infographic showing various Mainframe Developer job openings in Houston, TX as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $105,977 per year, or $51 per hour.

Lead Mainframe Platform Engineer - CICS, MQ & zCEE

Huntington

Austin, TX

$93K - $189K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

Description

This position is an onsite position and available to be filled at any Huntington Corporate office location (see location options on posting)

The z/OS Platform CICS, MQ & zCEE Lead candidate must have extensive experience in performance management architecture, implementation, and management for a mission critical large mainframe systems environment. Required areas of experience include z/OS engineering, WLM (Workload Manager), CF, SMF Processing, DASD, Hardware configuration, Channels, IPL processes, CICS, zCEE, MQ, Parallel Sysplex, CICSPLEX, z/OS Networking, z/OS Performance Tuning, and Capacity Planning tools. Expertise in ICF/zIIP capacity and tuning, WLM configuration and troubleshooting, and z/OS engineering. In addition, candidate must have a proven history of platform road map development, project management skills, and executive level communication in these areas. Previous experience performing a z/OS CICS, MQ & zCEE lead role required. The candidate must be able to prioritize and complete work on time in an ever-changing and complex environment. Mentoring required with the wider team, mentoring skills and experience are necessary. The ability to read CICS dumps & traces considered a plus.

Detailed Description:

This candidate will be fulfilling an experienced systems mainframe engineer position.

  • Responsible for the overall health, security, resiliency, and performance of System z CICS for z/OS, MQ for z/OS, and z/OS zCEE across multiple Sysplexes and CECS
  • Responsible for the z/OS networking for CICS, MQ and zCEE connectivity requirements (TCPIP, LU6.2, Sockets, EXCI, ETC.)
  • Manage overall platform documentation, reports including all KPIs, charts, end-to-end workflow diagrams of all system z software zCEE, CICS and MQ.
  • Develop and present z/OS zCEE, CICS and MQ, HA (SYSPLEX/CICSPLEX roadmaps
  • Lead problem troubleshooting efforts and root cause analyses of all P1 & P2 System z zCEE, CICS and MQ related incidents.
  • Develop, document, and deliver pre- and post-implementation analysis of System z tech refreshes and application releases.
  • Eliminate reoccurring issues and drive down mean time to recovery.
  • Provide technical direction and education to programmers, analysts, and technical support associates.
  • Prototypes the new features, functions, and strategies of new application subsystems technology.
  • Candidate must be motivated and assertive while possessing the ability to oversee and prioritize multiple tasks in a team environment.
  • Coordinates with programming application users to determine symptoms and ensure accurate problem resolution.
  • Provides 24x7 on call support within a team rotation.

Basic Qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s degree or 4+ additional years of equivalent experience.
  • 7+ years of professional experience in z/OS / CICS, MQ or zCEE engineering.
  • 3+ years in a lead role, or Project Management (roadmapping), or developing KPIs for delivery.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Expert knowledge of systems z including DB2 for z/OS, CICS for z/OS, zCEE for z/OS, & MQ for z/OS along with mainframe related tools such as BMC Mainview, IBM –CICS Interdependency Analyzer, IBM –CICS Performance analyzer, SMPE, ISPF, SMS, SMF, GDPS.
  • Excellent interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills; ability to effectively interface and partner with all levels of the organization.
  • Maintain “State of the Art’ knowledge of best practices in systems capacity, Security, administration, performance, high availability, metrics, and business continuity specifically for all systems z including DB2 for z/OS, CICS for z/OS or MQ for z/OS. 
  • Comprehensive knowledge of CICS Security (Keyring Certificates, TLS, Resource access & RACF)
  • Proficient in SRE concepts and automation
  • Proven experience in creating the roadmap, processes, best practices, standards, and strategies for continuous improvement of monitoring, performance, resiliency, availability, and scalability of zCEE, CICS and MQ on system z.
  • Experience as a technical lead, driving technical direction, owning the portfolio of technology, and growing the larger team.
  • REXX experience


Exempt Status: (Yes = not eligible for overtime pay) (No = eligible for overtime pay)

Yes

Workplace Type:

Office

Our Approach to Office Workplace Type

Certain positions outside our branch network may be eligible for a flexible work arrangement. We’re combining the best of both worlds:  in-office and work from home. Our approach enables our teams to deepen connections, maintain a strong community, and do their best work. Remote roles will also have the opportunity to come together in our offices for moments that matter. Specific work arrangements will be provided by the hiring team.

Compensation Range:

$93,000 - $189,000 Annual Salary

The compensation range represents the anticipated low and high end of the base compensation range for this position. Actual compensation will vary based on various factors including but not limited to location, experience, and education.  Colleagues in this position are also eligible to participate in an applicable incentive compensation plan.  In addition, Huntington provides a variety of benefits to colleagues, including health insurance coverage, wellness program, life and disability insurance, retirement savings plan, paid leave programs, paid holidays and paid time off (PTO). 

Huntington is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Tobacco-Free Hiring Practice: Visit Huntington's Career Web Site for more details.

Note to Agency Recruiters:  Huntington will not pay a fee for any placement resulting from the receipt of an unsolicited resume.  All unsolicited resumes sent to any Huntington colleagues, directly or indirectly, will be considered Huntington property. Recruiting agencies must have a valid, written and fully executed Master Service Agreement and Statement of Work for consideration.