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Mainframe Programmer Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Ten years experience in programming using COBOL programming language. Eight years experience in programming using XGEN programming language. Eight years experience in programming using DMSII ...

Mainframe Developer

Dearborn, MI

$45 - $58/hr

Mainframe Developer No. of positions: 30 Location: Dearborn, MI Rate: Keep it as low as possible Desired start date: 12/05/2015 Must Have Skills: Strong mainframe skills including COBOL, DB2, IMS ...

Mainframe Developer

Detroit, MI · On-site

$48.50 - $62.25/hr

Compu-Vision Consulting Inc. is seeking a Mainframe Developer to work in Detroit, MI. The role involves designing, developing, and supporting mainframe applications while interacting with business ...

Mainframe Software Engineer

Dearborn, MI · On-site

$45 - $58/hr

Mainframe Software Engineer #1062268 * This position is for a Mainframe Software Engineer within the Service Quality team. * In this role, the Software Engineer will serve as the primary Mainframe ...

MAINFRAME COBOL PROGRAMMER

Grand Rapids, MI · On-site

$47 - $60.50/hr

Mainframe Developer AM6 Performing code analysis, designing, code build, unit testing and some solution design working on a large, complex and business critical application. Proven experience (5-10 ...

Mainframe Engineer

Dearborn, MI

$45 - $58/hr

Stefanini is looking for a Mainframe Engineer, Dearborn, MI (Onsite) For quick apply, please reach out Saurabh Kapoor at 248-582-6559/saurabh.kapoor@stefanini.com Looking for someone who is ...

Mainframe Engineer

Dearborn, MI · On-site

$45 - $58/hr

Stefanini is looking for a Mainframe Engineer, Dearborn, MI (Onsite) For quick apply, please reach out Saurabh Kapoor at 248-582-6559/saurabh.kapoor@stefanini.com Looking for someone who is ...

Mainframe Developer

Dearborn, MI · On-site

$45.25 - $58/hr

Stefanini is looking for a Mainframe Engineer, Dearborn, MI For quick apply, please reach out to Parul Singh at / We are looking for a candidate who will be responsible for designing, developing ...

Mainframe Engineer

Dearborn, MI

$45 - $58/hr

Stefanini is looking for a Mainframe Engineer, Dearborn, MI (Onsite) For quick apply, please reach out Saurabh Kapoor at 248-582-6559/saurabh.kapoor@stefanini.com Looking for someone who is ...

Mainframe Engineer

Dearborn, MI · On-site

$65 - $70/hr

Stefanini is looking for a Mainframe Engineer, Dearborn, MI (Onsite) For quick apply, please reach out Saurabh Kapoor at 248-582-6559/saurabh.kapoor@stefanini.com Looking for someone who is ...

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Mainframe Programmer information

See Michigan salary details

$33

$47

$58

How much do mainframe programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for mainframe programmer in Michigan is $47.17, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41.06 and $55.10 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.

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Mainframe Programmer job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 8% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $98,105 per year, or $47.2 per hour.

Mainframe Engineer/Mainframe Developer

Megan soft Inc

Dearborn Heights, MI • On-site

$45.25 - $58/hr

Other

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

Role: Software Engineer (1) - Established Engineer 3 (Mainframe Engineer)
Location: Livonia, MI
 
Position Description:
In this role, the Software Engineer will serve as the primary Mainframe Developer for the Recall Suite of applications, supporting both their ongoing operations and strategic modernization.
Key responsibilities include on-call support, operations support, customer interaction, and the continued development and modernization of these products.
The engineer will collaborate closely with a Product Owner, Product Manager, and fellow engineers to deliver projects and features that meet the current business needs and advance the application migration journey to the Google Cloud Platform (GCP).
 
Key Responsibilities:
• Be an integral part of the FCSDTech/Service Quality team, supporting Recall and Software FSA Products.
• Provide call and production support
• Complete Mandatory features to support the Software FSA and Compliance requirement
• Address the product team's deliverables and actively manage the backlog.
• Review and support defect resolution efforts, assisting in prioritizing these issues within the backlog.
• Ensure that the product delivers strong value propositions for both customers and the business.
• Participate in the collaborative process of the product modernization journey alongside other IT products, vendors, and business customers.
 
Position Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in computer science or equivalent
- 7+ years’ experience in mainframe development background in design, analysis and coding: COBOL (IMS), JCL, CA7, DB2 and/or BigQuery, COBOL Stored Procedures and real-time and batch processing.
- 2+ years’ experience implementing z/OS connect, SFTP, SOAP and REST APIs, and other methods for system-to-system communication and data exchange
- Ability to design, develop and maintain Mainframe COBOL & JCL to meet support and/or project requirements
- Experience using source code management tools such as Endeavor and GitHub
- Quick starter to troubleshoot/resolve incidents and business support items
- Ability to perform application support tasks: systems support, security/audit reviews, and maintenance tasks
- Excellent teamwork, written and verbal communication, and organizational skills are essential, ability to solve complex problems in a global environment
- Ability to multi-task effectively and prioritize work based on business impact and urgency
- Unit and integration testing experience
- Ability to work independently and take initiative when solving unexpected problems Experience in Google BigQuery and Google Cloud Platform would be a plus
 
Skills Required:
Mainframe Systems
 
 
Experience Required:
Engineer 3 Exp: Prac. In 2 coding lang. or adv. Prac. in 1 lang. 6+ years in IT; 4+ years in development
 
Thanks & Regards
Azmeera koti
Megan Soft, Inc.
17177 N. Laurel Park Dr;
Suite #337, Livonia, MI - 48152.
Direct No: +1  (248) 671-4750
E Mail : Koti@megansoft.com
Website : www.megansoft.com
Linked In ID : www.linkedin.com/in/koti-azmeera-104253335