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Mainframe Programmer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Saigepartners

Mainframe Developer

Davenport, IA · On-site

$80 - $110/hr

Our Davenport, IA client has an immediate opening for a talented Mainframe Developer! If you are interested, please send your resume to Dani at dedgington@saigepartners.com. As our client continues ...

Saige Partners

Mainframe Developer

Davenport, IA

$46.50 - $59.75/hr

Our Davenport, IA client has an immediate opening for a talented Mainframe Developer. If you are interested, please send your resume to Dani at dedgington@saigepartners.com As our client continues to ...

Futran Solutions

Mainframe Developer

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$47.75 - $61.50/hr

Mainframe Developer Location: Des Moines, IA Full-Time Qualifications Additional Information All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

Accenture

Mainframe Specialist

Des Moines, IA · 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 ...

Marshall Technologies

COBOL Developer

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$49 - $66.25/hr

We are seeking a seasoned COBOL Developer with 6+ years of experience in mainframe application development and support . The ideal candidate should have strong expertise in COBOL, JCL, DB2, and ...

Robert Half

LifePro Developer

West Des Moines, IA · On-site

Maintain and improve solutions connected to LifePro and mainframe-based systems, ensuring ... Use Azure DevOps to manage assigned work, contribute to delivery planning, and support efficient ...

Robert Half

COBOL Developer

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$95K - $115K/yr

Position: COBOL Developer Location: Des Moines, IA - Hybrid Salary: $95,000 - $115,000 base ... COBOL - All Versions, Mainframe Application, IBM Mainframe, AS400, HP3000, HP9000, UNIX, Linux

Arete Technologies, Inc.

Batch Operator

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$17.75 - $21.50/hr

Monitor mainframe jobs - Alert appropriate customers/programmers of potential problems. - Report all job failures and other problems to Program Manager and assist with resolution. - Report and ...

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Mainframe Programmer information

See Iowa salary details

$36

$50

$62

How much do mainframe programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for mainframe programmer in Iowa is $50.83, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44.23 and $59.38 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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Mainframe Programmer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Mainframe Programmer job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 7% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $105,722 per year, or $50.8 per hour.

COBOL / HP9000 Mainframe Programmer

Des Moines, IA • On-site

Robert Half
Recruiting and Staffing Services • 10K+ employees
Learn more about Robert Halfexternal

$95K - $115K/yr

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

New position - COBOL / UNIX / HP9000 Mainframe Programmer Analyst – Insurance experience preferred !  

Location: Des Moines, IA – Hybrid; primarily onsite. Must LIVE IN DES MOINES. 

Compensation: $95,000–$115,000 base salary plus outstanding benefits

* For immediate and confidential consideration, please message **Carrie Danger on LinkedIn or email your resume directly. Contact information is found on my LinkedIn page. Please send me an invite as well !***

Amazing people focused culture where our financial services client is hiring an FTE Mainframe Cobol Programmer Analyst for a permanent, direct-hire opportunity with a stable and well-run organization in the Des Moines area. This role is ideal for someone who enjoys working in a collaborative environment where individual contributions are visible and valued.

You’ll be joining a well-established company with a strong leadership team, solid financial footing, and a close-knit technical group, make a meaningful impact while working alongside experienced teammates in a practical, supportive setting.

Why this role stands out:

•Strong base compensation with excellent benefits

•Hybrid work arrangement with most time spent onsite but the company culture is a 10

•Opportunity to work with a smaller, highly capable team

•Leadership that appreciates initiative and recognizes contributions

•A stable environment where long-term career growth is encouraged

•Positive culture built on professionalism, integrity, and teamwork

What we’re looking for:

•Hands-on experience with COBOL and JCL programming

•Background supporting or working within life insurance and policy administration systems

•Additional experience with HP9000, Unix, and/or Linux is highly preferred

•Someone who takes pride in producing quality work and looks for ways to improve systems and processes

This is a great fit for a professional who values stability, meaningful work, and the ability to see the direct results of their efforts within the business. 

* Salary up to $115,000. For immediate and confidential consideration, please message **Carrie Danger on LinkedIn or email your resume directly. My contact information is available on my LinkedIn page. You may also reach me by office at 515-303-4654 or mobile at 515-771-8142. You can also apply directly through our company website. No third-party inquiries, please. This client is unable to provide sponsorship or consider contract-to-contract arrangements. ***

What we’re looking for:

•Hands-on experience with COBOL and JCL programming

•Background supporting or working within life insurance and policy administration systems

•Additional experience with HP9000, Unix, and/or Linux is highly preferred

•Someone who takes pride in producing quality work and looks for ways to improve systems and processes

T

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About Robert Half

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Founded in 1948, Robert Half pioneered the idea of professional talent solutions to connect opportunities at great companies with highly skilled job seekers. As business needs changed, we evolved to offer specialized talent solutions for finance and accounting, technology, administrative and customer support, creative and marketing, and legal fields. In 2002, we introduced our subsidiary, Protiviti, a global independent risk consulting and internal audit service, to support companies as they faced more strategic business challenges.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

San Ramon, CA, US

Year founded

1948

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