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Mainframe Programmer Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

Reviews, analyzes, and modifies programming systems including encoding, testing, debugging and documenting programs. May require an associate's degree in a related area and at least 2 years or ...

Mainframe CICS Systems Engineer

Portland, OR · On-site

$52 - $66.75/hr

The Mainframe CICS Systems Programmer/Engineer is responsible for all phases of CICS engineering, system and software maintenance, and CICS related operational functions. The candidate must be ...

New

The agency requires a mainframe developer who has at least three (3) years of experience with the operations and maintenance of enterprise financial systems. The Contractor shall: * Perform software ...

New

The agency requires a mainframe developer who has at least three (3) years of experience with the operations and maintenance of enterprise financial systems. The Contractor shall: * Perform software ...

New

Lead Mainframe Storage Engineer

Portland, OR · On-site

$110K - $165K/yr

We are searching for a Lead Mainframe Storage Engineer to join the Z Infrastructure team responsible for providing a highly available Z Compute and Storage platform, resilient against infra failures ...

New

... in mainframe will be an added advantage Deep knowledge of Java (or equivalent) programming language and design patterns from a performance point of view. Experience in both Windows and UNIX ...

Sales Director

OR · On-site +1

You'll lead complex, consultative sales cycles for mainframe modernization, selling to senior business and technical buyers (CIO, CTO, VP Engineering) where the decision involves many stakeholders ...

Senior Software Engineer

OR · On-site +1

$180K - $200K/yr

Specialized target experience - SAP GRC, mainframe/RACF, Epic or Cerner in healthcare, or core ... Preferred Qualifications * 6-8+ years of software engineering, with at least 4 years building on ...

Principal Engineering Manager

OR · On-site +1

$200K - $230K/yr

About the Role Design authority and engineering leader for the IGA/IAM practice. Owns the technical ... mainframe/RACF targets. * Working cybersecurity context: least privilege and zero standing ...

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Mainframe Programmer information

See Oregon salary details

$40

$57

$70

How much do mainframe programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for mainframe programmer in Oregon is $57.21, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49.81 and $66.83 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 popular job titles related to Mainframe Programmer jobs in Oregon?

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Mainframe Programmer job openings in Oregon as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 7% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $119,006 per year, or $57.2 per hour.

Mainframe Programmer

Salem, OR

Stem Xpert
Recruiting and Staffing Services • 51 - 200 employees

Full-time

Re-posted 23 days ago


Job description

Company Description

TekWissen is a global management consulting, technological service and outsourcing company delivering technology-driven business solutions to meet the strategically driven objectives for our numerous clients.

Job Description
Reviews, analyzes, and modifies programming systems including encoding, testing, debugging and documenting programs. May require an associate's degree in a related area and at least 2 years or equivalent experience in the field or in a related area. Familiar with standard concepts, practices, and procedures within a particular field. Relies on experience and judgment to plan and accomplish goals. Performs a variety of tasks. A certain degree of creativity and latitude is required.
Additional Requirements:
Applicant should have expertise and through working knowledge in each of the following: COBOL, CICS, VSAM, DB2, TSO and JCL.
Knowledge of Macrosope Methodology to document testing and implementation would be helpful, however it is not a mandatory requirement


Additional Information
Thanks & Regards...
Manas
Talent Acquisition Executive
321 S Main street,
Suite 300,
Ann Arbor,
Michigan-48104, USA.    Tel       :  734-259-2181 Ext:299
Direct :  734-357-8992
Fax      :  734-468-0881
Web   :  www.tekwissen.com
Global : USA | Dubai | Singapore | India |

stem xpert logo

About stem xpert

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

STEM Xpert, based in Ann Arbor, MI, US, is a leading company in the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education industry. Since their establishment, they have made an indelible mark by providing innovative services and products designed to enhance STEM learning. Their service portfolio includes comprehensive educational programs, customized learning modules and interactive STEM kits. Driven by a passion for nurturing young minds, the company's mission is to bring about an educational renaissance in the STEM field, making learning not just theoretical but practical and fun. One notable achievement for STEM Xpert has been its success in reaching a broad spectrum of learners, from school-age to adults, contributing significantly towards empowering the community's technological and scientific literacy.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

Ann Arbor, MI, US

Year founded

2012