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Mainframe Programmer Jobs in Toronto, ON (NOW HIRING)

Scotiabank

Mainframe Developer

Toronto, ON

... mainframe development complex programs using Cobol, JCL, IMS DB, DB2, VSAM, CA7, SAS, Netron. Experience working in an agile environment / methodology / deployment (e.g. GIT, DevOps pipeline, JIRA ...

Td

Senior Software Engineer (Mainframe)

Toronto, ON · On-site

CA$81K - CA$115K/yr

Adhere to enterprise engineering frameworks, software development methodologies, release processes, and control standards applicable to mainframe development and delivery. * Actively identify and ...

New

Td

Software Engineer II (Mainframe)

Toronto, ON

CA$81K - CA$115K/yr

The L9 Mainframe Software Engineer II is responsible for producing high-quality functional and technical designs, participating in complex application development, and delivering reliable technology ...

CIBC US

Mainframe Application Developer

Toronto, ON · Hybrid

As a Mainframe Developer, you'll lead the planning, technical design, and development of complex, enterprise-scale applications. You'll assemble, implement, and maintain flexible solutions that ...

LearnQuest

Mainframe DevOps Expert (Remote)

Toronto, ON · Remote

We are seeking a highly skilled Mainframe DevOps Expert to join our team for an exciting short-term project. Key Responsibilities: As a Curriculum Development Specialist, your primary responsibility ...

LearnQuest

Mainframe Expert (Remote)

Toronto, ON · Remote

We are seeking a skilled Mainframe "File-Manager" Expert to join our dynamic team and contribute to the development of a comprehensive course. The ideal candidate will have in-depth expertise in File ...

Td

Quality Engineer I - Mainframe

Toronto, ON · Remote

CA$69K - CA$98K/yr

Mainframe testing (COBOL, DB2, IMS, CICS screens is a must) and API is good to have. * As a Test engineer for small complexity initiatives, accountable for implementing effective test strategies and ...

Td

Senior IT Build/CICS Programmer

Toronto, ON · Remote

CA$81K - CA$115K/yr

Middleware & Database Technical Services group within Infrastructure & Engineering - Mainframe Delivery is responsible for Support, Design, Build, Test and Deploy of Mainframe Database and ...

Veriday Inc.

Lead DevOps Engineer

Toronto, ON · On-site

As a Lead DevOps Engineer , you will play a critical role in bridging the gap between development ... Lead the design and development of key features for the Helios CI/CD pipeline - VM and Mainframe ...

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Mainframe Programmer information

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 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.

Is a mainframe programmer in demand?

Mainframe programmers are still in demand in industries such as finance, insurance, and government that rely on legacy systems. They typically need skills in COBOL, JCL, and mainframe environments, and demand remains steady due to the ongoing need to maintain and update existing mainframe 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.

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 is a mainframe programmer's salary?

A mainframe programmer's salary 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.
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Mainframe Programmer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Mainframe Programmer job openings in Toronto, ON as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, and 25% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Senior Mainframe Developer - Application Design - Hybrid

Tech Talent International

Toronto, ON • Hybrid

CA$50/hr

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

Tech Talent International (TTI) supplies technical talent to a variety of clients ranging from Fortune 100/500/1000 companies to startups, small and mid-sized organizations in Canada/US. We are currently hiring a Senior Mainframe Developer - Application Design - Hybrid for our consulting client in the Toronto area.

Role: Senior Mainframe Developer - Application Design - Hybrid

Type: Contract

Rate Range: $50/hr C2C (40 hrs /week)

Duration: 8 months + potential extensions

Location: Hybrid (2 onsite/3 days from home) downtown Toronto, ON, Canada

Mainframe Senior Developer
Skills Required: 

Mainframe DB2 

Application Development~System I 

COBOL400~IT IS_AMS_Mainframe_DB2 Administration
Experience Required: 6-8 Years
Qualifications :
Experience in Mainframe lead Developer
Should have coding experience in CICS,COBOL, DB2, JCL.
Experience with application design, development and deployment
Skills and Responsibilities:
Design, develop and maintain Mainframe COBOL & JCL to meet support and/or project requirements.
Interface with business and IT teams to understand business requirements and translate business requirements into formal technical requirements and application code.
Develop and execute unit test and integration plans/scripts to validate that application changes meet technical specifications.
Responsible for full System Development Life Cycle Participate in production support Provide Solution Delivery Methodology artifacts associated with application components.
Participate in technical reviews at appropriate stages of development.