Programmer 5 - Natural (489807) Location : Richmond, VA Duration: 12 + Months Only local candidates ... in mainframe environment. Code from spec/analyst description. May meet with business user on ...
Programmer 5 - Natural (489807) Location : Richmond, VA Duration: 12 + Months Only local candidates ... in mainframe environment. Code from spec/analyst description. May meet with business user on ...
Technical SME (Mainframe z/OS)
Mclean, VA · On-site
$70 - $80/hr
Mainframe Infrastructure Engineer Location: Mclean, VA Remote Duration: 12+ Months Contract Job id - 178319 Must Have Qualifications : * Must have 10+ years as a Mainframe Programmer with hands on ...
Technical SME (Mainframe z/OS)
Mclean, VA · On-site
$70 - $80/hr
Mainframe Infrastructure Engineer Location: Mclean, VA Remote Duration: 12+ Months Contract Job id - 178319 Must Have Qualifications : * Must have 10+ years as a Mainframe Programmer with hands on ...
Mainframe Developer
$49.50 - $63.75/hr
Mainframe Developer (Banking Domain) Location: McLean, VA (Onsite, 5 days/week) Note: This position is open to local candidates in McLean, VA only. Face-to-face (F2F) interviews are mandatory, so ...
Mainframe Developer
$49.50 - $63.75/hr
Mainframe Developer (Banking Domain) Location: McLean, VA (Onsite, 5 days/week) Note: This position is open to local candidates in McLean, VA only. Face-to-face (F2F) interviews are mandatory, so ...
Mainframe Developer
Mclean, VA · On-site
$49.50 - $63.75/hr
Mainframe Developer (Banking Domain) Location: McLean, VA (Onsite, 5 days/week) Note: This position is open to local candidates in McLean, VA only. Face-to-face (F2F) interviews are mandatory, so ...
Mainframe Developer
Mclean, VA · On-site
$49.50 - $63.75/hr
Mainframe Developer (Banking Domain) Location: McLean, VA (Onsite, 5 days/week) Note: This position is open to local candidates in McLean, VA only. Face-to-face (F2F) interviews are mandatory, so ...
Mainframe Developer
Mclean, VA · On-site
$49.50 - $63.75/hr
Mainframe Developer (Banking Domain) Location: McLean, VA (Onsite, 5 days/week) Note: This position is open to local candidates in McLean, VA only. Face-to-face (F2F) interviews are mandatory, so ...
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Mainframe Developer
Mclean, VA · On-site
$49.50 - $63.75/hr
Mainframe Developer (Banking Domain) Location: McLean, VA (Onsite, 5 days/week) Note: This position is open to local candidates in McLean, VA only. Face-to-face (F2F) interviews are mandatory, so ...
Mainframe Engineering
Mclean, VA · On-site
$40 - $45/hr
Mainframe Engineering Location : McLean, VA Required Knowledge * z/OS architectures and internals. * zSecure tool and Carla language (customization experience is a plus). * Mainframe security related ...
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Mainframe Engineering
Mclean, VA · On-site
$40 - $45/hr
Mainframe Engineering Location : McLean, VA Required Knowledge * z/OS architectures and internals. * zSecure tool and Carla language (customization experience is a plus). * Mainframe security related ...
Code is on mainframe computer using NATURAL/ADABAS. Interfaces use EntireX; batch TSO/IBM JCL. Additional Information Thanks & Regards Preeti Joshi 510-254-3300 Ext 142 preeti@)360itpro.com
Code is on mainframe computer using NATURAL/ADABAS. Interfaces use EntireX; batch TSO/IBM JCL. Additional Information Thanks & Regards Preeti Joshi 510-254-3300 Ext 142 preeti@)360itpro.com
Mainframe Engineer
Mclean, VA · On-site
$49.50 - $63.75/hr
The Mainframe engineers responsibilities include: Technical Lead for Mainframe Platform (z/OS| Dell Storage| IMS| DB2| RACF| CA JobTrac) to govern operations| changes and sustainability upgrade ...
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Mainframe Engineer
Mclean, VA · On-site
$49.50 - $63.75/hr
The Mainframe engineers responsibilities include: Technical Lead for Mainframe Platform (z/OS| Dell Storage| IMS| DB2| RACF| CA JobTrac) to govern operations| changes and sustainability upgrade ...
Mainframe Consultant
Mclean, VA · On-site
🚨 W2 Opportunity | Senior Mainframe Infrastructure Engineer (z/OS SysProg) | McLean, VA (Hybrid) 📍 Location: McLean, VA (Hybrid) 💼 Employment: W2 Contract Only 🏦 Industry: Leading ...
New
Mainframe Consultant
Mclean, VA · On-site
🚨 W2 Opportunity | Senior Mainframe Infrastructure Engineer (z/OS SysProg) | McLean, VA (Hybrid) 📍 Location: McLean, VA (Hybrid) 💼 Employment: W2 Contract Only 🏦 Industry: Leading ...
New
Mainframe Developer
Mclean, VA · On-site
$49.75 - $63.75/hr
Deland, Gibson Insurance Associates is seeking an experienced Mainframe Developer with strong expertise in the Banking domain. The role involves designing, developing, maintaining, and supporting ...
Mainframe Developer
Mclean, VA · On-site
$49.75 - $63.75/hr
Deland, Gibson Insurance Associates is seeking an experienced Mainframe Developer with strong expertise in the Banking domain. The role involves designing, developing, maintaining, and supporting ...
Mainframe developer
$49.50 - $63.75/hr
Mainframe developer Location: Mclean, VA Duration: contract or full time Skillset : Experience in Mainframe (COBOL/JCL/DB2/IMS/CICS) - must have. Must have - Mainframe and IMS Good in analysis ...
Mainframe developer
$49.50 - $63.75/hr
Mainframe developer Location: Mclean, VA Duration: contract or full time Skillset : Experience in Mainframe (COBOL/JCL/DB2/IMS/CICS) - must have. Must have - Mainframe and IMS Good in analysis ...
Urgent Requirement -Mainframe Developer-Mclean, VA (Day 1 onsite)
Mclean, VA · On-site
$49.50 - $63.75/hr
Mainframe Developer Mclean, VA (Day 1 onsite) Essential Skills: * A minimum of 6+ years of experience engineering exciting solutions * 6+ years of experience in developing applications using ...
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Urgent Requirement -Mainframe Developer-Mclean, VA (Day 1 onsite)
Mclean, VA · On-site
$49.50 - $63.75/hr
Mainframe Developer Mclean, VA (Day 1 onsite) Essential Skills: * A minimum of 6+ years of experience engineering exciting solutions * 6+ years of experience in developing applications using ...
z/OS Mainframe Developer (Remote)
Alexandria, VA · Remote
$52.50 - $67.50/hr
Tier One Technologies has an immediate need for a z/OS Mainframe Developer to support our US Government client. * This is going to be a 100% remote position. * SELECTED CANDIDATES WITHOUT REQUIRED ...
z/OS Mainframe Developer (Remote)
Alexandria, VA · Remote
$52.50 - $67.50/hr
Tier One Technologies has an immediate need for a z/OS Mainframe Developer to support our US Government client. * This is going to be a 100% remote position. * SELECTED CANDIDATES WITHOUT REQUIRED ...
z/OS Mainframe Developer (Remote)
Alexandria, VA · On-site +1
$52.50 - $67.50/hr
Tier One Technologies has an immediate need for a z/OS Mainframe Developer to support our US Government client. * This is going to be a 100% remote position. * SELECTED CANDIDATES WITHOUT REQUIRED ...
z/OS Mainframe Developer (Remote)
Alexandria, VA · On-site +1
$52.50 - $67.50/hr
Tier One Technologies has an immediate need for a z/OS Mainframe Developer to support our US Government client. * This is going to be a 100% remote position. * SELECTED CANDIDATES WITHOUT REQUIRED ...
z/OS Mainframe Developer (Remote)
Alexandria, VA · Remote
$52.50 - $67.50/hr
* Tier One Technologies has an immediate need for a z/OS Mainframe Developer to support our US Government client. * This is going to be a 100% remote position. * SELECTED CANDIDATES WITHOUT REQUIRED ...
z/OS Mainframe Developer (Remote)
Alexandria, VA · Remote
$52.50 - $67.50/hr
* Tier One Technologies has an immediate need for a z/OS Mainframe Developer to support our US Government client. * This is going to be a 100% remote position. * SELECTED CANDIDATES WITHOUT REQUIRED ...
Mainframe Developer
$50.25 - $64.50/hr
... engineers from their employers. We represent only high caliber technical professionals who have committed to making a change required by career. Skills: Hogan, COBOL, DB2, JCL, VSAM, Mainframe ...
Mainframe Developer
$50.25 - $64.50/hr
... engineers from their employers. We represent only high caliber technical professionals who have committed to making a change required by career. Skills: Hogan, COBOL, DB2, JCL, VSAM, Mainframe ...
IAM Onboarding App Analyst (Mainframe)
Vienna, VA · On-site
$64 - $72/hr
Proven experience as a Mainframe Developer or Application Lead in a large enterprise environment. * Strong hands-on knowledge of: * z/OS * RACF * Legacy mainframe application architectures * Deep ...
IAM Onboarding App Analyst (Mainframe)
Vienna, VA · On-site
$64 - $72/hr
Proven experience as a Mainframe Developer or Application Lead in a large enterprise environment. * Strong hands-on knowledge of: * z/OS * RACF * Legacy mainframe application architectures * Deep ...
This is not a traditional hands-on Mainframe Engineering role. We're looking for a senior professional who can provide technical oversight, governance, and vendor management for the mainframe ...
This is not a traditional hands-on Mainframe Engineering role. We're looking for a senior professional who can provide technical oversight, governance, and vendor management for the mainframe ...
Mainframe System Programmer
Mclean, VA · On-site
$120K - $140K/yr
... Programmer reviews all products and processes to verify the requirement of compatibility maintenance, schedule and implement changes as required and performs routine maintenance on mainframe systems.
Mainframe System Programmer
Mclean, VA · On-site
$120K - $140K/yr
... Programmer reviews all products and processes to verify the requirement of compatibility maintenance, schedule and implement changes as required and performs routine maintenance on mainframe systems.
Mainframe System Programmer
$120K - $140K/yr
... Programmer reviews all products and processes to verify the requirement of compatibility maintenance, schedule and implement changes as required and performs routine maintenance on mainframe systems.
Mainframe System Programmer
$120K - $140K/yr
... Programmer reviews all products and processes to verify the requirement of compatibility maintenance, schedule and implement changes as required and performs routine maintenance on mainframe systems.
Mainframe Programmer information
See Virginia salary details
$38.37 - $40.91
4% of jobs
$40.91 - $43.44
5% of jobs
$43.44 - $45.97
11% of jobs
$46.74 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$45.97 - $48.51
16% of jobs
$48.51 - $51.04
13% of jobs
The median wage is $51.47 / hr.
$51.04 - $53.58
6% of jobs
$53.58 - $56.11
10% of jobs
$56.11 - $58.65
5% of jobs
$60.93 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$58.65 - $61.18
5% of jobs
$61.18 - $63.72
19% of jobs
$63.72 - $66.25
5% of jobs
$38
$53
$66
How much do mainframe programmer jobs pay per hour?
As of Jul 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for mainframe programmer in Virginia is $53.65, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46.73 and $62.69 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What is mainframe developer salary?
The salary for a mainframe developer typically ranges from $70,000 to $120,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Senior roles or those with specialized skills in COBOL, JCL, or mainframe environments may earn higher compensation. Many employers also offer benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans.
Is mainframe developer a good career?
Mainframe developers design, maintain, and update large-scale legacy systems using languages like COBOL and tools such as JCL. The role offers stable employment opportunities, especially in finance and government sectors, with competitive salaries and demand for specialized skills. However, it requires ongoing learning of mainframe technologies and certifications to stay current in the field.
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 tech jobs pay $400,000 a year?
Mainframe programmers with extensive experience, specialized skills in COBOL, and certifications can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $400,000 annually, especially in senior or leadership roles within large financial or government organizations. High compensation often depends on expertise, project complexity, and the ability to manage critical legacy systems.
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 are Mainframe Programmers?
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.
Can mainframe be replaced by AI?
Mainframe programmers work with large-scale, legacy systems that often require specialized knowledge of COBOL, JCL, and mainframe environments. While AI can automate certain tasks like code analysis and testing, it is unlikely to fully replace mainframe programmers due to the complexity, stability, and critical nature of mainframe systems that demand expert oversight and maintenance.
What is the difference between Mainframe Programmer vs Mainframe Developer?
| Aspect | Mainframe Programmer | Mainframe Developer |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Role | Writing, testing, and maintaining mainframe code | Designing and developing mainframe applications and systems |
| Skills & Certifications | COBOL, JCL, DB2, certifications in mainframe technologies | Similar skills, often with additional focus on system design and architecture |
| Work Environment | Mainframe environments in banking, finance, government | Same environments, with broader development responsibilities |
| Job Focus | Code implementation and troubleshooting | Application 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.
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.
More about Mainframe Programmer jobs
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What job categories do people searching Mainframe Programmer jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Mainframe Programmer jobs in Virginia are:
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Job description
Company Description
Position : Programmer 5 - Natural (489807)
Location : Richmond, VA
Duration: 12 + Months
Only local candidates as F2F interview is required
Short Description: DMV Programmer 5 - Natural.
Complete Description: *local candidates strongly preferred
*ONLY in-person interviews will be conducted, NO Skype, NO exceptions
*please only submit candidates who have not previously interviewed at DMV for a previous Natural position
Natural coder in mainframe environment. Code from spec/analyst description. May meet with business user on smaller projects to learn requirements, develop and implement solution.
Manage, define, develop and maintain application software supporting DMV's mission. Objectives include creating new functions, maintaining performance and accuracy levels. All application software based on the main processor products support traditional customer based activity and additional interfaces as required; e.g. Internet/Intranet/Extranet, on-line dealer, Select inter-agency systems and National systems. Ensure the integrity and security of main processor software as the repository for DMV's automated business records and critical business functions
Code is on mainframe computer using NATURAL/ADABAS; interfaces use EntireX; batch TSO/IBM JCL.
Additional Information
All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.
About Ask IT Consulting
Sourced by ZipRecruiter
Ask IT Consulting, based in Holtsville, NY, US, is a dynamic player in the IT and business solutions industry. Their services portfolio, as outlined on their official website (askitc.com), spans across a broad spectrum which includes IT consulting, talent management, digital and technology solutions. Founded with the goal to provide clients with the highest quality IT services, the company has steadily evolved and expanded as a leading resource, maintaining a powerful presence in the fields of information technology and business solutions alike. Ask IT Consulting believes firmly in its core values, which pivots upon integrity, excellence, respect, commitment, and diversity. As part of its mission, the company strives to deliver innovative and effective solutions for their clients that are tailored to meet their unique needs and objectives.
Industry
It services
Company size
51 - 200 Employees
Headquarters location
Holtsville, NY, US
Year founded
2008