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Mainframe Programmer Jobs in New York (NOW HIRING)

Reviews, analyzes, and modifies programming systems including encoding, testing, debugging and installing for a large-scale mainframe computer system. * May require a bachelor's degree and 6-8 years ...

Reviews, analyzes, and modifies programming systems including encoding, testing, debugging and installing for a large-scale mainframe computer system. * May require a bachelor's degree and 6-8 years ...

Mainframe Programmer Analyst

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$100K - $125K/yr

Company Description The Financial Information Services Agency and the Office of Payroll Administration (FISA-OPA) has a vacancy for a Mainframe Programmer Analyst in the FMS (Financial Management ...

Mainframe Developer

Morristown, NJ · On-site

$50.50 - $64.75/hr

Role: Sr. Mainframe Engineer Location: Morris Plains, NJ , Memphis TN, Somerset NJ, Austin TX, St. Louis MO, Morristown NJ Remote to start - Hybrid from Nov onwards Duration: 6-12 months What You ...

Mainframe Engineer

Somerset, NJ · On-site

$49.25 - $63.25/hr

NAVA Software solutions is looking for a Mainframe Engineer Details: Mainframe Engineer Location: Somerset, NJ - Remote to start Duration: 6 months CTH What You Will Do: * Legacy application ...

Sr. Mainframe Developer

New York, NY · On-site

$53.50 - $69/hr

Job Title: Sr. Mainframe Engineer UCMG: West Virginia (Int Eligibility) O&M Onshore: Working with US based Ops, Product and IT Services teams. Overview: * This request is for hiring 2 Sr. Mainframe ...

Sr. Mainframe Developer

New York, NY · On-site

$53.50 - $69/hr

Job Title: Sr. Mainframe Engineer UCMG: West Virginia (Int Eligibility) O&M Onshore: Working with US based Ops, Product and IT Services teams. Overview: * This request is for hiring 2 Sr. Mainframe ...

Mainframe Developer

Jersey City, NJ · On-site

$53.75 - $69/hr

... programmer with the ability to design, develop and tests within the mainframe environment (COBOL, CICS, JCL and DB2 Must have experience on resolving production job abends and debugging skills ...

Mainframe Developer

New York, NY · On-site

$53.50 - $69/hr

As a Senior Mainframe developer with strong background in Mainframe technologies, provides production support (MNO) for key eligibility programs such as Medicaid and CHIP. The selected resource will ...

Mainframe Developer

New York, NY · On-site

$53.50 - $69/hr

Job Summary (List Format) - Mainframe Developer at Must be local to NYC/NJ/CT - Develop and deliver high-quality software solutions across banking product domains using Mainframe technologies ...

Mainframe Developer

Jersey City, NJ · On-site

$51.25 - $65.75/hr

Mainframe Developer Work Location: Jersey City, NJ Duration: Long Term * 8+ years of experience in designing and developing Mainframe applications * Experience in COBOL (Modify existing programs to ...

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Mainframe Programmer information

See New York salary details

$42

$59

$73

How much do mainframe programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for mainframe programmer in New York is $59.20, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51.54 and $69.18 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 New York?

The most popular types of Mainframe Programmer jobs in New York are:

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

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

What cities in New York are hiring for Mainframe Programmer jobs?

Cities in New York with the most Mainframe Programmer job openings:

Infographic showing various Mainframe Programmer job openings in New York as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 25% Full Time, and 75% Contract. Highlights an 50% In-person, 25% Hybrid, and 25% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $123,142 per year, or $59.2 per hour.

Mainframe Programmer

Florham Park, NJ

Sonsoft Inc
IT Services • 51 - 200 employees

Contractor

Retirement

Re-posted 4 days ago


Job description

Company Description

Sonsoft , Inc. is a USA based corporation duly organized under the laws of the Commonwealth of Georgia. Sonsoft Inc. is growing at a steady pace specializing in the fields of Software Development, Software Consultancy and Information Technology Enabled Services.

Job Description

Short Description:

  • Reviews, analyzes, and modifies programming systems including encoding, testing, debugging and installing for a large-scale mainframe computer system.
  • May require a bachelor's degree and 6-8 years of experience in the field or in a related area.


Complete Description:

  • Reviews, analyzes, and modifies programming systems including encoding, testing, debugging and installing for a large-scale mainframe computer system.
  • Maintains and develops on-line and batch application programs. Develops and implements a disaster recovery plan.
  • Works with project members to develop specifications, diagrams and flowcharts.
  • Requires a bachelor's degree in area of specialty and 6-8 years of experience in the field or in a related area.
  • Familiar with a variety of the field's concepts, practices, and procedures. Relies on extensive experience and judgment to plan and accomplish goals.
  • Performs a variety of tasks. Leads and directs the work of others. A wide degree of creativity and latitude is expected. Typically reports to a manager or head of a unit/department.
Qualifications

Skills:-

  • Cobol, DB2, VSAM, CICS - 8 years
  • CICS Web Services - 4 years
  • 401k or similar Financial processing - 5 years
  • OmniPlus (SunGard / FIS) experience - 5 years
Additional Information

Note:-

  1. This is a Contract job opportunity.
  2. Only US Citizen, Green Card Holder, GC-EAD, H4-EAD, L2-EAD, TN VIsa and H1B can apply.
  3. No OPT-EAD for this position.
  4. Please mention your email id in your email or resume.

Sonsoft logo

About Sonsoft

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Sonsoft , Inc. is a USA based corporation duly organized under the laws of the Commonwealth of Georgia. Sonsoft Inc. is growing at a steady pace specializing in the fields of Software Development, Software Consultancy and Information Technology Enabled Services.

Industry

It services

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

Alpharetta, GA, US

Year founded

2007