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Mainframe Development Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Sonsoft Inc. is growing at a steady pace specializing in the fields of Software Development ... At least 5 years of experience in Mainframe Technologies (COBOL, CICS, JCL, DB2) * At least 5 years ...

We are growing at a steady pace specializing in the fields of Software Development, Software Consultancy and Information Technology Enabled Services. * At least 5 years of experience in Mainframe ...

Mainframe Developer

Costa Mesa, CA ยท Hybrid

$52.50 - $67.50/hr

Responsible for the daily development, maintenance, and support of the mainframe health claims applications. * Develop, test, and deploy code changes for claims processing systems based on technical ...

Mainframe Developer

San Francisco, CA ยท Hybrid

$57.75 - $74.25/hr

Responsible for the daily development, maintenance, and support of the mainframe health claims applications. * Develop, test, and deploy code changes for claims processing systems based on technical ...

Mainframe Developer

San Jose, CA ยท Hybrid

$57.50 - $73.75/hr

Responsible for the daily development, maintenance, and support of the mainframe health claims applications. * Develop, test, and deploy code changes for claims processing systems based on technical ...

Mainframe Developer

Sacramento, CA ยท Hybrid

$52.25 - $67.25/hr

Responsible for the daily development, maintenance, and support of the mainframe health claims applications. * Develop, test, and deploy code changes for claims processing systems based on technical ...

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Mainframe Development information

See California salary details

$27.9K

$88.8K

$141K

How much do mainframe development jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for mainframe development in California is $88,779.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $70,014.00 and $109,673.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a mainframe developer do?

A mainframe developer designs, codes, tests, and maintains applications running on mainframe computers, often using languages like COBOL, PL/I, or Assembler. They work in environments that require high reliability and security, and typically use tools such as IBM z/OS and JCL to manage batch and online processing tasks.

What is the difference between Mainframe Development vs Mainframe Testing?

AspectMainframe DevelopmentMainframe Testing
Primary FocusDesigning, coding, and maintaining mainframe applicationsVerifying and validating mainframe applications for bugs and performance
Required SkillsCOBOL, JCL, DB2, CICSTesting tools, scripting, debugging, knowledge of mainframe environments
Work EnvironmentDevelopment teams, coding in mainframe environmentsQuality assurance teams, testing labs, mainframe systems
CertificationsCOBOL certifications, IBM mainframe certificationsISTQB, mainframe testing certifications

While Mainframe Development involves creating and maintaining mainframe applications, Mainframe Testing focuses on ensuring those applications work correctly and efficiently. Both roles require knowledge of mainframe environments and related skills, but they serve different stages in the software lifecycle.

Can mainframe be replaced by AI?

Mainframe development involves maintaining and programming large-scale, reliable computing systems used in industries like finance and government. While AI can automate certain tasks and improve efficiency, it is unlikely to fully replace mainframes due to their specialized hardware, security requirements, and high availability needs. Mainframe skills remain valuable for managing legacy systems and integrating new technologies.

Is mainframe still in demand?

Mainframe development remains in demand in industries such as finance, insurance, and government, where large-scale transaction processing and data security are critical. Skilled mainframe programmers with knowledge of COBOL, JCL, and mainframe environments are sought after for maintaining and modernizing legacy systems. The demand is steady due to the high cost and complexity of replacing mainframe infrastructure.

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 tools may earn higher salaries. Compensation often includes benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans.
Infographic showing various Mainframe Development job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, and 99% Full Time. Highlights an 83% Physical, 7% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $88,779 per year, or $42.7 per hour.

Mainframe Developer (Micro focus Rehosting experience with COBOL, CICS and JCL) - Long Beach, CA

Info-Ways

Long Beach, CA โ€ข On-site

$51.50 - $66.25/hr

Contractor

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

Company Description

IT

Job Description

ย Role: Mainframe Developer (Micro focus Rehosting experience with COBOL, CICS and JCL)
Location: Long Beach, CA
Duration: 6+ Months
BGV will be done for the selected candidates.
Roles and responsibilities:
Strong Mainframe application developer and tester
Excellent Knowledge of IMS DB/DC, COBOL, JCL, DB2
REXX tooling experience
Good analytical skills
Onsite and Offshore coordination
Good communication - communicate with customer and team member
Desirable skills:
COBOL, IMS, JCL
Specialized in migration
Strong analytical skill and learn quickly
Experience in DB2 to SQL Server migration
Should be able to satisfy the project requirement
Good communication skill
Preference:
Should have migration from Mainframe to Windows environment using Microfocus
Should have good Mainframe development experience to Microfocus environment
Please respond with your word resume and requested details:
Full Name :
DOB :
Work Authorization:
Contact Number :
Email ID :
Skype ID:
Current location:
Willing to relocate :
Rate/hr :

Additional Information

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.