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Mainframe Modernization Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Lead the design, development, and modernization of mainframe applications, enforcing best practices and architectural standards. * Evaluate legacy systems and propose actionable modernization ...

... mainframe applications and data to cloud platforms • Align modernization initiatives with enterprise architecture, cloud adoption frameworks, and business outcomes Preferred Skill and Experience ...

Senior Mainframe Architect

Chicago, IL · On-site

$112K - $146K/yr

Required Skill and Experience • Experience working as a Mainframes Architect on large scale enterprise modernization programs. • Lead assessment of legacy mainframe applications, batch workloads ...

Senior Mainframe DevOps Architect

Lisle, IL

$127K - $173K/yr

About the Role We are seeking a Senior Mainframe DevOps Architect to lead solution design and own ... Modernization & Migration Strategy: Architect migration paths from legacy or competitive products ...

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Mainframe Modernization information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$10

$54

$74

How much do mainframe modernization jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for mainframe modernization in Chicago, IL is $54.99, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48.56 and $62.40 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is mainframe modernization still in demand?

Mainframe modernization remains in demand as organizations seek to update legacy systems for improved efficiency, security, and integration with modern technologies. Roles in this field often require skills in COBOL, cloud platforms, and modernization tools like APIs and microservices. The demand is driven by industries such as finance, healthcare, and government that rely on mainframe systems.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a mainframe modernization position?

To thrive in Mainframe Modernization, you need expertise in legacy mainframe systems, programming languages like COBOL, and modern software development methodologies, often backed by a degree in computer science or a related field. Knowledge of tools such as IBM z/OS, migration frameworks, cloud platforms (like AWS, Azure), and relevant certifications (e.g., AWS Certified Solutions Architect) is highly valuable. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving ability, and effective communication skills help you succeed in cross-functional environments. These skills are crucial for executing system upgrades, ensuring minimal downtime, and facilitating smooth transitions to modern technology platforms.

What are the typical responsibilities and daily tasks in a mainframe modernization role?

In a Mainframe Modernization role, you can expect to analyze and document legacy mainframe applications, design modernization strategies, and implement solutions that migrate or integrate these systems with newer technologies. Your days may involve collaborating with business analysts, developers, and project managers to prioritize features and minimize business disruption, as well as troubleshooting integration issues. Many professionals also monitor system performance post-migration and help train end-users on the new platforms. This position often requires balancing hands-on technical work with effective communication across diverse teams to ensure project success.

What is mainframe modernization?

A Mainframe Modernization job involves updating, reengineering, or migrating legacy mainframe applications to modern platforms, technologies, or cloud environments. Professionals in this role assess existing mainframe systems, identify optimization opportunities, and implement strategies to enhance performance, scalability, and integration with modern IT architectures. They may use approaches like rehosting, refactoring, or replacing applications to reduce costs and improve agility. The job typically requires expertise in legacy systems (e.g., COBOL, DB2) and modern cloud or microservices architectures.

What are the most commonly searched types of Mainframe Modernization jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Mainframe Modernization jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What job categories do people searching Mainframe Modernization jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Mainframe Modernization jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Infographic showing various Mainframe Modernization job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $114,373 per year, or $55 per hour.

Custody API & Mainframe Modernization Specialist

Beta-Search, Inc

Chicago, IL • On-site

$50.50 - $65/hr

Other

Posted 2 days ago

New


Job description

Overview The company is supporting a strategic modernization initiative for one of the world's leading global custodians. The program's objective is to stabilize and modernize a legacy custody accounting platform while preparing for its eventual migration to Finbourne. We are seeking a Custody API & Mainframe Modernization Specialist who combines deep experience with legacy IBM mainframe technologies and modern API architecture. This individual will play a critical role in exposing legacy custody functionality through secure, scalable services while preserving business functionality throughout the modernization journey. This consultant will become part of the initial anchor team responsible for establishing the foundation of a multi-year transformation program. Responsibilities Design API strategies that expose legacy custody accounting functionality. Develop integration approaches between IBM mainframe applications and modern cloud architectures. Analyze existing COBOL, CICS, DB2, VSAM, and batch processing workflows to identify modernization opportunities. Partner with architecture, infrastructure, and business teams to define service-based integration patterns. Support incremental modernization while minimizing operational risk. Design secure RESTful APIs and event-driven services. Participate in application decomposition and modernization planning. Produce technical documentation and integration standards. Support production implementations and issue resolution. Mentor development teams on legacy modernization best practices.