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Mainframe Programmer Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

UAB NOVA RENT

SYSTEMS PROGRAMMER II

Birmingham, AL · On-site

$98K/yr

Provides technical and programming software support to enable efficient and reliable availability of mainframe computers, mini-computers and microcomputers supported by the department. * Functions as ...

Ghr

Senior NOMAD Developer

Bromley, AL · On-site

$50.50 - $66.75/hr

Senior NOMAD Developer Corporate Title: Vice President Location: Bromley or Chester Company ... Significant experience of the NOMAD vendor product Demonstrable mainframe development experience ...

Leidos

Sr Software Engineer, AI Development

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$120K - $159K/yr

Preferred Qualifications Experience modernizing legacy systems (e.g., mainframe, Java monoliths, .NET). Background building developer experience (DevX) tools, IDE integrations, or code-intelligence ...

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Mainframe Programmer information

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$35

$49

$60

How much do mainframe programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for mainframe programmer in Alabama is $49.05, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42.69 and $57.31 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Mainframe Programmer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Mainframe Programmer, you need a solid understanding of COBOL, JCL, DB2, and general mainframe architecture, often supported by a degree in computer science or related experience. Familiarity with tools like IBM z/OS, TSO/ISPF, and source control systems such as Endevor or Changeman is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication set top performers apart in this role. These abilities are critical for maintaining legacy systems, ensuring data integrity, and supporting business-critical operations in large organizations.

What are some common challenges Mainframe Programmers face when working on legacy systems?

Mainframe Programmers often encounter challenges such as understanding complex, decades-old codebases written in languages like COBOL or Assembler, and integrating these systems with modern technologies. Documentation may be sparse or outdated, requiring strong problem-solving and analytical skills to decipher business logic. Additionally, coordinating with cross-functional teams—including business analysts, testers, and infrastructure specialists—is essential to ensure smooth system updates and migrations. Adaptability and effective communication are key to overcoming these obstacles and supporting mission-critical applications.

What are Mainframe Programmers?

Mainframe Programmers are specialized software developers who design, write, test, and maintain code for mainframe computer systems. These professionals primarily work with legacy programming languages such as COBOL, JCL, and sometimes Assembler, to ensure critical business applications run smoothly and securely. They are often employed in industries like banking, insurance, and government where mainframe systems remain essential for processing large volumes of transactions. Mainframe Programmers also troubleshoot system issues, optimize performance, and may assist in system upgrades or migrations.

What is the difference between Mainframe Programmer vs Mainframe Developer?

AspectMainframe ProgrammerMainframe Developer
Primary RoleWriting, testing, and maintaining mainframe codeDesigning and developing mainframe applications and systems
Skills & CertificationsCOBOL, JCL, DB2, certifications in mainframe technologiesSimilar skills, often with additional focus on system design and architecture
Work EnvironmentMainframe environments in banking, finance, governmentSame environments, with broader development responsibilities
Job FocusCode implementation and troubleshootingApplication development and system integration

While both roles work within mainframe environments and share skills like COBOL and JCL, Mainframe Programmers primarily focus on coding and maintenance, whereas Mainframe Developers are involved in designing and developing new applications and systems. The roles often overlap, but the developer role typically encompasses a broader scope in application lifecycle management.

What Does a Mainframe Programmer Do?

As a mainframe programmer, your job is to design and program applications for mainframe computers, which are powerful machines that help to run many commercial and industrial processes. In this role, you may conduct an analysis of existing software to ensure it is as error-free as possible, help test new software, and implement software in a way that makes it easy for users to access. Mainframe programmers often use coding languages like COBOL, C++, SQL, Java, and CLIST when programming software. Somewhat unusually, most companies prefer to stick with specific coding languages even when they are not necessarily the best language for the job in order to reduce complexity and the risk of errors.

More about Mainframe Programmer jobs
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What cities in Alabama are hiring for Mainframe Programmer jobs? Cities in Alabama with the most Mainframe Programmer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Mainframe Programmer jobs in AL? For Mainframe Programmer jobs in AL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Mainframe Programmer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Mainframe Programmer job openings in Alabama as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 8% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 90% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $102,021 per year, or $49 per hour.

SYSTEMS PROGRAMMER II

UAB NOVA RENT

Birmingham, AL • On-site

$98K/yr

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

SYSTEMS PROGRAMMER II
University of Alabama at Birmingham
This position will commit to fostering an environment of heightened security following IT Security Polices and participating in security training, such as Health Insurance Portability & Accountability Act (HIPAA) and Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), on an annual basis.
General Responsibilities
  • Provides technical and programming software support to enable efficient and reliable availability of mainframe computers, mini-computers and microcomputers supported by the department.
  • Functions as a project leader ; responsible for planning, analyzing and designing new computer programs and processes.

Additional Duties
  • Application Development Maintenance Design, develop, test, and maintain custom applications that support academic scheduling, clinical workflows, and research initiatives.
  • Enhance and support the student clinical rotation scheduling system, ensuring alignment with academic calendars and operational needs.
  • Develop and maintain automated reports and dashboards using scripting languages and data tools.
  • Ensure all applications meet institutional security standards and regulatory requirements, including FERPA and HIPAA compliance.
  • Monitor, troubleshoot, and resolve system issues to ensure performance, reliability, and data integrity.
  • Electronic Dental Records (EDR) Support Provide technical support and maintenance for electronic dental record systems, including current and future platforms.
  • Assist with system configuration, data integrations, and reporting within EDR/EHR environments.
  • Support implementation activities such as upgrades, migrations, and new feature deployments.
  • Collaborate with stakeholders to optimize system functionality and user experience.
  • Collaboration Requirements Gathering Work with faculty, leadership, and operational teams to gather and analyze technical requirements.
  • Translate business and functional needs into technical specifications and system solutions.
  • Provide recommendations to improve system workflows, efficiency, and performance.
  • Support cross-functional initiatives requiring data integration or system enhancements.
  • Technical Leadership Support Serve as a technical resource and project lead for programming and system-related initiatives.
  • Provide guidance and mentorship to junior staff or team members as needed.
  • Develop and maintain comprehensive documentation for applications, scripts, and system processes.
  • Participate in testing, quality assurance, and change management processes.
  • Ensure adherence to institutional IT policies, security standards, and best practices.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Preferred:
  • Proficiency in programming and scripting languages (e.g., Python, TypeScript, PowerShell, Bash, or similar).
  • Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities independently.
  • Experience with system integration, automation, and reporting tools.
  • Knowledge of data security, privacy regulations, and compliance standards (FERPA, HIPAA).
  • Strong communication skills with the ability to translate technical concepts for non-technical audiences.
  • Ability to lead projects and collaborate effectively across teams.

Salary Range: $ 60,835- $98,855
Qualifications
Education
  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Math or a related field and three (3) years of related experience required.
  • OR AN EQUIVALENT COMBINATION OF RELEVANT EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE.

UAB is an Equal Employment/Equal Educational Opportunity Institution dedicated to providing equal opportunities and equal access to all individuals regardless of race, color, religion, ethnic or national origin, sex (including pregnancy), genetic information, age, disability, and veteran's status. As required by Title IX, UAB prohibits sex discrimination in any education program or activity that it operates. Individuals may report concerns or questions to UAB's Assistant Vice President and Senior Title IX Coordinator. The Title IX notice of nondiscrimination is located at uab.edu/titleix.

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