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Mainframe Programmer Jobs in Arkansas (NOW HIRING)

Accenture

Mainframe Specialist

Bentonville, AR · On-site

$70K - $196K/yr

About the Role Are you a seasoned Mainframe Specialist with deep, hands-on command of COBOL, JCL ... Partner with cross-functional teams-architects, developers, QA, and business analysts-to gather ...

Triunity Software

Maniframe Developer

Little Rock, AR · On-site

$100K - $110K/yr

Triunity Software is looking for a talented Mainframe Developer to join our growing team in Little Rock, AR! This is an exciting opportunity to work on complex, mission-critical systems in a ...

WorkNovas LLC

Mainframe Production Support

Bentonville, AR · On-site

$43 - $55.25/hr

Mainframe Production Support Location: Bentonville, AR - (Open for remote) Job Duties and Responsibilities: Analyze business and system requirements by conducting requirements gathering sessions with ...

FIS

Senior Systematics Engineer

Little Rock, AR · On-site

$124K - $211K/yr

We are seeking an experienced Mainframe Application Developer with strong COBOL and JCL expertise to support, enhance, and modernize core banking solutions. This role is heavily focused on mainframe ...

Worldpay, Inc.

Senior Systematics Engineer

Little Rock, AR · On-site

$124K - $211K/yr

We are seeking an experienced Mainframe Application Developer with strong COBOL and JCL expertise to support, enhance, and modernize core banking solutions. This role is heavily focused on mainframe ...

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Mainframe Programmer information

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$32

$44

$55

How much do mainframe programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for mainframe programmer in Arkansas is $44.75, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38.94 and $52.26 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a mainframe programmer?

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 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.

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 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.

Is a mainframe programmer a good career?

A mainframe programmer is a specialized IT professional who develops and maintains legacy systems using languages like COBOL and tools such as IBM Z. The role offers stable employment opportunities, especially in industries like finance and government, with demand for skills in mainframe environments remaining steady despite the rise of cloud computing. Certifications and experience with mainframe hardware and software can enhance job prospects and salary potential.

Is a mainframe programmer still in demand?

Mainframe programmers are still in demand in industries such as finance, government, and healthcare that rely on legacy systems. They typically need skills in COBOL, JCL, and mainframe environments, and demand remains stable due to the continued use of mainframe technology for critical applications.
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For Mainframe Programmer jobs in Arkansas, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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Mainframe Programmer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Mainframe Programmer job openings in Arkansas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 7% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $93,075 per year, or $44.7 per hour.

Mainframe Developer

Cardinal Integrated Technologies Inc

Bentonville, AR • On-site

$41.75 - $53.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description

Job Summary:
Cardinal Integrated Technologies Inc is seeking an experienced Mainframe Developer with strong DC2 functional knowledge and proven experience in the Retail domain. This role involves supporting, enhancing, and modernizing Mainframe-based logistics, warehouse management, and supply chain systems.
Responsibilities:
• Develop, enhance, and maintain applications on IBM Mainframe technologies (COBOL, JCL, VSAM, DB2, CICS).
• Work on DC2 / Warehousing / Distribution Center applications, including inbound/outbound processing, order fulfillment, shipping, and inventory control.
• Analyze complex business requirements related to retail distribution and convert them into scalable technical solutions.
• Troubleshoot and resolve production issues, ensuring SLAs and operational stability.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams—product owners, QA, architects, and business SMEs across retail operations.
• Participate in system modernization and migration efforts (if applicable).
• Create technical documentation, conduct peer reviews, and support deployments.
• Optimize Mainframe jobs and improve application performance.
• Ensure data integrity, compliance, and adherence to best practices for retail supply chain systems.
Qualifications:
Required:
• 10+ Years of exp Overall, Mainframe, DC2
• 6+ Years of Exp in COBOL, JCL, VSAM, DB2
• 5+ years of hands-on experience in Mainframe technologies: COBOL, JCL, VSAM, DB2, CICS, TSO/ISPF
• Strong functional knowledge of DC2 / Distribution Center processes: ASN processing, pick/pack/ship workflows, warehouse inventory, replenishment
• Experience working in Retail domain applications
• Ability to analyze batch cycles, optimize JCL, and troubleshoot job failures
• Experience with integration between Mainframe systems and downstream applications (e.g., WMS, OMS, transportation)
• Strong debugging and problem-solving skills in production and QA environments
• Excellent communication skills working with global teams
Preferred:
• Retail domain experience is a plus
Company:
We are a company of IT professionals who passionately believe that good quality products & services are delivered by great resources. Founded in 2013, the company is headquartered in Monmouth Junction, USA, with a team of 201-500 employees. The company is currently Growth Stage.

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