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Mainframe Programmer Contract Jobs in Pasadena, CA

Mainframe/ITOM

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$115K - $213K/yr

The engineer operates within DXC's IT Operations Management (ITOM) practice, enabling reliable and ... contract-specific affordability and organizational requirements. A reasonable estimate of the ...

New

Mainframe/ITOM

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$115K - $213K/yr

The engineer operates within DXC's IT Operations Management (ITOM) practice, enabling reliable and ... contract-specific affordability and organizational requirements. A reasonable estimate of the ...

New

Mainframe Programmer Contract information

See Pasadena, CA salary details

$42

$59

$72

How much do mainframe programmer contract jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for mainframe programmer contract in Pasadena, CA is $59.03, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51.39 and $68.94 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a mainframe programmer contract?

A Mainframe Programmer Contract job is a temporary position where a programmer develops, maintains, and troubleshoots software applications running on mainframe systems. Contractors are typically hired for specific projects or to fill short-term gaps in an organization's IT team. They work with legacy programming languages like COBOL, JCL, and assembler to ensure the smooth operation of critical business applications. Contract durations vary based on project needs and may be extended or converted into full-time roles. These roles often require experience with mainframe environments such as IBM z/OS.

What typical responsibilities can contractors expect in a mainframe programmer role?

As a Mainframe Programmer on a contract basis, you will often be responsible for writing, updating, and maintaining code in languages such as COBOL or PL/I, managing batch processing jobs, and performing data migrations or system integrations. You may also debug existing mainframe applications, resolve performance issues, and collaborate closely with business analysts, QA teams, and system administrators to meet project objectives. Contractors are frequently engaged in system upgrades or modernization initiatives, which require flexibility and strong problem-solving abilities. Project scopes and daily tasks can vary depending on the organization’s reliance on mainframe systems and current technical goals.

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

To thrive as a Mainframe Programmer Contract, you need deep expertise in COBOL, JCL, and mainframe operating systems, often backed by a computer science degree or equivalent experience. Familiarity with tools like IBM z/OS, TSO/ISPF, DB2, and knowledge of middleware or integration technologies is highly valuable and sometimes enhanced by relevant certifications. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication are important soft skills for this position. These competencies enable you to efficiently maintain legacy systems, troubleshoot complex issues, and collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams.

What are popular job titles related to Mainframe Programmer Contract jobs in Pasadena, CA?

For Mainframe Programmer Contract jobs in Pasadena, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Mainframe Programmer Contract jobs in Pasadena, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Mainframe Programmer Contract jobs in Pasadena, CA are:

What cities near Pasadena, CA are hiring for Mainframe Programmer Contract jobs?

Cities near Pasadena, CA with the most Mainframe Programmer Contract job openings:

Infographic showing various Mainframe Programmer Contract job openings in Pasadena, CA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Contract. Highlights an 92% In-person, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $122,778 per year, or $59 per hour.

Full-time

Re-posted 21 days ago


Job description

Mainframe Admin
Downey, CA
12 months
Responsibilities:
Provide network architecture guidance and improvements for the design of the new z/OS 2.4 zEnterprise Communications Server infrastructure.
Design, implement and support the Communications Systems Services (CSSMTP) customization for mainframe files attachment.
Design, implement, and support communications access to the Client's cloud tertiary data site.
Enhance Williams Data Systems (WDS) enterprise monitoring/alerts.
Participate in Business Continuity exercises including testing, documentation and configuration of the z/Enterprise Communications Server environment at the Local Recovery Center.
Attend Problem and Change meetings in order to support Network Systems activities in these areas as well as resolve open Cherwell help desk incidents assigned to the IBM OS/COM Section.
Provide on-call technical support as required during outages including weekends and off hours.
Plan and schedule network software changes as required to be implemented according to Client's change policies and available maintenance windows.
Provide for knowledge transfer throughout the contract period to permanent IBM OS/COM staff.
Attend related project and design meetings and discussions directed by management; and perform special projects and initiatives as assigned.
Required Skills:
1. Five (5) years of experience within the last seven (7) years with IBM zEnterprise mainframe implementing MultiPath Channel (MPC) alternate routing links in a systems programming troubleshooting support role.
2. Five (5) years of experience within the last seven (7) years with IBM zEnterprise mainframe hardware maintenance console interface in a systems programming troubleshooting support role.
3. Five (5) years of experience within the last seven (7) years customizing the IBM zEnterprise mainframe Communications Systems Services (CSSMTP) for mainframe file attachment.
4. Three (3) years of experience within the last five (5) years installing, maintaining and upgrading the zEnterprise Communications Server mainframe TLS/SSL security, policy-based network and Digital Certificate Implementation and support.
5. Three (3) years of experience within the last five (5) years supporting IBM zEnterprise mainframe Communications Systems and Virtual Tape System storage disaster vaulting communication links.
Regards
Naresh Damagalla
West Advanced Technologies, Inc
E: naresh.d@wati.com