ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Mainframe Programmer Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Kanak Elite Services Inc

Mainframe Developer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$50.50 - $65/hr

MAINFRAME DEVELOPER Location: Chicago, IL (Full Onsite, Open to Relocating Candidates) Visa: Any visa except H1B We're looking for a Mainframe Developer to join our team! If you're experienced with ...

Hexacorp

Mainframe Developer

Peoria, IL · On-site

$48 - $61.75/hr

Mainframe Developer Location: Peoria, IL (Onsite) Contract (W2) We are looking for an experienced Mainframe Developer with strong expertise in COBOL, JCL, DB2, and Mainframe Scheduling. The ideal ...

New

Kanak Elite Services Inc

Mainframe Developer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$50.50 - $65/hr

Mainframe Developer (12+ YEARS) Location: Chicago, IL * Required Years of Experience: At least 12+ years of relevant experience * 12+ years of experience as a Mainframe Developer Required Skills:

Advent Global Solutions, Inc.

Mainframe Developer

Peoria, IL · On-site

$48 - $61.75/hr

Mainframe Developer Location: Peoria, IL Must Relocate Openings: 2 Required Skills: * COBOL Expert * JCL Expert * DB2 Expert * Mainframe Scheduler Expert * IMS DB Working knowledge strongly preferred

Georgia IT

Mainframe Developer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$50.50 - $65/hr

Mainframe Developer Location: Atlanta, GA / Vienna, VA / Chicago, IL - First Preference Position Overview We are seeking an experienced Mainframe Developer with 12-15 years of experience in COBOL ...

New

Broadcom

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 end-to-end architecture for enterprise customers-translating complex business requirements into ...

CYNET SYSTEMS

DB2 Mainframe Developer

Bloomington, IL · On-site

$45 - $50/hr

Experience with Mainframe technologies including PL/1, IMSDB, DB2, and JCL. * Strong understanding ... We deliver agile, scalable talent solutions across IT, engineering, life sciences, clinical, and ...

Capgemini

Mainframe Developer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$90K - $96K/yr

Experience with Mainframe technologies (Mainly PL/1, IMSDB, DB2, JCL) etc. * Very good ... engineering, all fueled by its market leading capabilities in AI, generative AI, cloud and data ...

United Airlines

Mainframe Developer

Chicago, IL

$90K - $96K/yr

Experience with Mainframe technologies (Mainly PL/1, IMSDB, DB2, JCL) etc. * Very good ... engineering, all fueled by its market leading capabilities in AI, generative AI, cloud and data ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsMainframe Programmer JobsMainframe Programmer Jobs in Illinois

Mainframe Programmer information

See Illinois salary details

$37

$52

$64

How much do mainframe programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for mainframe programmer in Illinois is $52.44, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45.67 and $61.25 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.
More about Mainframe Programmer jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Mainframe Programmer jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Mainframe Programmer jobs in Illinois are:

What are popular job titles related to Mainframe Programmer jobs in Illinois?

For Mainframe Programmer jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Mainframe Programmer jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Mainframe Programmer jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Mainframe Programmer jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Mainframe Programmer job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Mainframe Programmer jobs in IL?

For Mainframe Programmer jobs in IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Mainframe Programmer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Mainframe Programmer job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 7% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $109,071 per year, or $52.4 per hour.

Sr Mainframe Programmer

Ruri Software Technologies LLC

Chicago, IL • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 27 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Sr Mainframe Programmer
Location: Brookfield, WI Richfield, MN Chicago, IL Irving, TX Atlanta, GA(Hybrid)
Job Requirements:
- Resource should be hands on in Mainframe Technologies COBOL, VSAM, DB2, CICS, JCL
- Having knowledge in GIT and IDZ will be an additional advantage
Years of experience required: 8+
Years of Experience: 12.00 Years of Experience
Regards
Danyal
danyal@rurisoft.com

Apply