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Mainframe Programmer Jobs in Lincoln, NE (NOW HIRING)

Mainframe Sr Developer

Lincoln, NE · On-site

$90 - $120/hr

Mainframe Sr Developer Job ID: 2024-13158 Job Location: Milwaukee, WI or Lincoln, NE (100% Onsite) Job Travel Location(s): # Positions: 3 Employment Type: W2 Duration:Long Term # of Layers:0 Work ...

This role is ideal for a seasoned mainframe developer with deep experience in COBOL, DB2, and CICS who thrives on solving challenging problems, ensuring system reliability, and collaborating within a ...

New

Prof Cobol Developer

Lincoln, NE · On-site

$47.75 - $64.50/hr

Experience with mainframe development languages such as Cobol. * Experience with DB2 and other ... Agile and/or DevOps experience. * Knowledgeable in industry standard software design patterns ...

Experience with mainframe development languages such as Cobol. * Experience with DB2 and other ... Agile and/or DevOps experience. * Knowledgeable in industry standard software design patterns ...

Experience with mainframe development languages such as Cobol. * Experience with DB2 and other ... Agile and/or DevOps experience. * Knowledgeable in industry standard software design patterns ...

Lead Sr Cobol Developer

Lincoln, NE · On-site

$51.75 - $68.50/hr

Experience with mainframe development languages such as Cobol. * Experience with DB2 and other ... Agile and/or DevOps experience. * Knowledgeable in industry standard software design patterns ...

Pavement Engineer

Lincoln, NE · On-site

$61.78/hr

Utilize advanced engineering and software tools-including Microsoft Office, PathWeb, MicroStation, Mainframe applications, Clarity, Pavement Management System, OnBase, ProjectWise, and AASHTOWare ...

Pavement Engineer

Lincoln, NE · On-site

$61.78/hr

Utilize advanced engineering and software tools-including Microsoft Office, PathWeb, MicroStation, Mainframe applications, Clarity, Pavement Management System, OnBase, ProjectWise, and AASHTOWare ...

Mainframe Programmer information

See Lincoln, NE salary details

$33

$47

$58

How much do mainframe programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for mainframe programmer in Lincoln, NE is $47.05, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40.96 and $54.95 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 Lincoln, NE?

The most popular types of Mainframe Programmer jobs in Lincoln, NE are:

What job categories do people searching Mainframe Programmer jobs in Lincoln, NE look for?

The top searched job categories for Mainframe Programmer jobs in Lincoln, NE are:

What cities near Lincoln, NE are hiring for Mainframe Programmer jobs?

Cities near Lincoln, NE with the most Mainframe Programmer job openings:

Infographic showing various Mainframe Programmer job openings in Lincoln, NE as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, and 17% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $97,873 per year, or $47.1 per hour.

Mainframe Sr Developer

Highbrow LLC

Lincoln, NE • On-site

$90 - $120/hr

Other

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Mainframe Sr Developer

Job ID: 2024-13158

Job Location: Milwaukee, WI or Lincoln, NE (100% Onsite)

Job Travel Location(s):

# Positions: 3

Employment Type: W2

Duration:Long Term

# of Layers:0

Work Eligibility:All Work Authorizations are permitted – No OPTs, No H-1s

Key Technology:Mainframe, COBOL, GIT, TDD

Job Responsibilities:
  • Play a key role in developing industry leading software
  • Develop and test complex technical and architectural solutions that support Bank Solution product strategies and address the market needs of the client
  • Define & complete enhancements to financial software
Skills and Experience Required: Required:
  • Minimum 6+ years of relevant experience in application development.
  • Experience with iSeries, Unisys, and/or other mainframe technologies.
  • Experience with mainframe development languages such as Cobol.
  • Experienced with source management tools including GIT or similar tools.
  • Agile and/or DevOps experience.
  • Knowledgeable in industry standard software design patterns, development, data modelling, and SOLID principles.
  • Knowledgeable in test driven development (TDD) and automated functional testing including tools like UFT, Postman, and Selenium.
  • The ability to clearly communicate complex technical specifications, and the motivation to achieve best-in-class results.
Desired:
  • Financial industry interest and experience is beneficial.
Education
  • Associate’s degree in Computer Programming or related discipline is required, but a Bachelor’s degree in IT or a related discipline is preferred.
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