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Mainframe Programmer Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

Deloitte

Automation Engineer

Birmingham, AL · Hybrid

Collaborate closely with Java developers, Mainframe engineers, product managers, and project leaders to align automation strategy with business and delivery priorities. * Document automation ...

Deloitte

Senior Automation Engineer

Birmingham, AL · Hybrid

$97K - $127K/yr

Collaborate closely with Java developers, Mainframe engineers, product managers, and project leaders to align automation strategy with business and delivery priorities. * Document automation ...

Parker Hannifin Corp.

Cnc Programmer

Jacksonville, AL

$24.75 - $34/hr

Position Summary Provides CNC programming support for machining parts & tools on numerically ... Manage routings on the Mainframe * Work with Kanbans * Work with vendors to improve tooling * Able ...

Parker Hannifin Corp.

Cnc Programmer

Jacksonville, AL

$24.75 - $34/hr

Position Summary Provides CNC programming support for machining parts & tools on numerically ... Manage routings on the Mainframe * Work with Kanbans * Work with vendors to improve tooling * Able ...

Motion

Systems Programmer II

Birmingham, AL · On-site

Motion is a company that focuses on maintaining the integrity, performance, and availability of mainframe, Linux, and AS400 systems software. The Systems Programmer I role involves supporting and ...

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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 29, 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 does a mainframe programmer do?

A mainframe programmer writes, tests, and maintains software for large-scale mainframe computers, often using languages like COBOL, PL/I, or Assembler. They work on critical business applications, ensure system stability, and may troubleshoot hardware or software issues in a mainframe environment.

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.

Can mainframe be replaced by AI?

Mainframe programmers work with large-scale, legacy systems that often require specialized knowledge of mainframe environments, programming languages, and tools like COBOL and JCL. While AI can assist with automation and code analysis, it is unlikely to fully replace mainframe programmers in managing, maintaining, and developing critical enterprise systems in the near term.

How much do mainframe programmers make?

Mainframe programmers typically earn between $70,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Senior roles or those with specialized skills in COBOL, JCL, or mainframe security can command higher salaries. Compensation may also include benefits such as bonuses and retirement plans.

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 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 salaries. Compensation often includes benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans.

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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Mainframe Programmer jobs near you
Senior Mainframe Automation - OPS/MVS / System Automation / GDPS

Senior Mainframe Automation - OPS/MVS / System Automation / GDPS

M&T Bank

Clanton, AL • On-site

$97K - $161K/yr

Other

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago

M&T Bank rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 182 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

67th of 142 rated banks

Job description

Job Summary

We are seeking a Senior Mainframe Automation SME to lead and drive automation initiatives within the enterprise Mainframe environment. This role requires deep expertise in Broadcom OPS/MVS, IBM System Automation (SA z/OS), and GDPS, along with strong knowledge of z/OS core components, NetView, and IPL processes. The candidate will enhance automation maturity, improve resiliency, and support modernization efforts across the platform.

Key Responsibilities

  • Lead the design, implementation, and optimization of Mainframe automation using OPS/MVS and System Automation.

  • Develop, enhance, and maintain automation for IPL (startup/shutdown) with a focus on stability, repeatability, and minimal manual intervention.

  • Support and improve Disaster Recovery (DR) processes, including GDPS workflows and recovery automation.

  • Partner with z/OS, Middleware, Application, Scheduling, and Infrastructure teams to align automation with operational and business requirements.

  • Drive phased IPL automation strategies to support controlled startup/shutdown during maintenance windows.

  • Troubleshoot and resolve complex automation and system issues across Production, Non-Prod, and Staging environments.

  • Create and maintain operational documentation, runbooks, and standards to ensure supportability and knowledge transfer.

  • Mentor junior engineers and promote knowledge sharing and continuous improvement.

  • Participate in Agile ceremonies; contribute to backlog refinement, PI planning, and roadmap definition.

Required Skills & Experience

  • Combined minimum of 7 years' higher education and/or related work experience

  • Strong hands-on expertise in enterprise automation.

  • Broadcom OPS/MVS: rule development/tuning, automation frameworks, and use of newer product capabilities.

  • IBM System Automation (SA z/OS): policy configuration, resource automation, and operational integration.

  • GDPS: strong understanding and experience with GDPS automation (e.g., Metro/Global/XRC concepts as applicable).

  • NetView: monitoring/integration experience and operational troubleshooting.

  • Strong z/OS core knowledge: JES2/JES3 concepts (as applicable), SYSLOG/message handling, WTORs, system start/stop sequencing, and IPL procedures.

  • Strong scripting skills with REXX (advanced), and ability to build supportable automation solutions.

  • Demonstrated ability to work in high-availability production environments and lead incident/problem resolution.

Preferred / Desired Skills

  • 8-12+ years of Mainframe experience with

  • Watchtower / observability tooling experience.

  • Ansible playbook development for Mainframe automation.

  • OPS/MVS REST API integration (e.g., integrating automation workflows with external orchestration tools).

  • Experience modernizing automation processes and implementing standardization and documentation best practices.

  • Experience working in Agile delivery models.

Soft Skills & Competencies

  • Excellent communication and stakeholder management across technical and non-technical teams.

  • Strong ownership, accountability, and bias for action.

  • Ability to lead, mentor, and influence in a matrixed environment.

  • Strong analytical and troubleshooting skills; capable of managing multiple priorities.

  • Comfortable providing after-hours support during critical change windows (e.g., IPL weekends) when required.

Role Level

  • Senior SME / Individual Contributor (may serve as technical lead for Mainframe Automation).

  • We support our team members with generous benefits.

  • Competitive compensation

  • Health, welfare, and retirement benefits

  • 401(k) match at 5%

  • Work-life balance and flexible work arrangements

  • Banking Officers start with 25 days PTO plus 12 paid holidays

  • 40 hours paid volunteer hours per year

  • Much more. For details, see: M&T Benefits Overview (https://www3.mtb.com/content/dam/mtb-web/mtb-migration/pdfs/health-care-benefits-overview.pdf)

#LI-JB3

M&T Bank is committed to fair, competitive, and market-informed pay for our employees. The pay range for this position is $97,100.00 - $161,800.00 Annual (USD). The successful candidate's particular combination of knowledge, skills, and experience will inform their specific compensation. The range listed above corresponds to our national pay range for this role. The specific pay range applicable to you may vary based on your location.

Location

Clanton, Alabama, United States of America

M&T Bank Corporation is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer, including disabilities and veterans.

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