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Mainframe Programmer Jobs in Toronto, ON (NOW HIRING)

Mainframe Developer Location: Toronto, ON Work Arrangement: Hybrid (2-3days WFO) Employment Type: Contract Domain: BFSI Duration:6-12 months Hourly rate :-CAD 45-47/hour Application Deadline: Sep ...

Senior Mainframe Developer Location: Toronto, ON Work Arrangement: Hybrid-2 Days onsite Employment Type: Contract Duration: 12 Months Domain: BFSI Pay Rate: CAD 45-47/hour Incorporated Application ...

Must-Have Qualifications Strong engineering background delivering enterprise applications, including mainframe solutions, batch processing systems, online transaction processing, and service-enabled ...

New

As a Senior Developer, you will be working in a development and support capacity on our core mainframe cards and transactions system. The core application is a large, sophisticated mainframe-based ...

... 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 ...

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

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 ...

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 ...

Provides a broad range of system solutions development to business problems through the development and programming of applications / systems. * Requires IBM Mainframe applications systems knowledge ...

z/OS Connect Systems Programmer

Toronto, ON · On-site

CA$81K - CA$115K/yr

Mainframe & Database Services group within Mainframe Delivery, Infrastructure and Engineering Team is responsible for Support, Design, Build, Test and Deploy of Mainframe database and transaction ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

... programming languages (Python, Javascript, Java), testing frameworks, and utilities Experience with Customer data and Customer systems, preferably in Mainframe environment Experience with testing ...

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Mainframe Programmer information

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 Toronto, ON?

The most popular types of Mainframe Programmer jobs in Toronto, ON are:

What are popular job titles related to Mainframe Programmer jobs in Toronto, ON?

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

What job categories do people searching Mainframe Programmer jobs in Toronto, ON look for?

The top searched job categories for Mainframe Programmer jobs in Toronto, ON are:

Infographic showing various Mainframe Programmer job openings in Toronto, ON as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 43% Full Time, and 57% Contract. Highlights an 90% In-person, and 10% Remote job distribution.

Mainframe Developer

Pacer Group

Toronto, ON • Hybrid

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Mainframe Developer

Location: Toronto, ON

Work Arrangement: Hybrid (2-3days WFO)

Employment Type: Contract

Domain: BFSI

Duration:6-12 months

Hourly rate :-CAD 45-47/hour

Application Deadline: Sep 10 , 2026


SKILLS REQUIRED

Experience Required: 6-8 Years

Mainframe DB2 - Application Development

Seeking a Mainframe Developer to support| maintain| and modernize critical mainframe applications. The role involves developing and enhancing enterprise systems| troubleshooting production issues| and participating in large-scale modernization initiatives involving cloud migration and legacy transformation.


Key Responsibilities:

Develop| maintain| and support mainframe applications and batch processes.

Analyze| troubleshoot| and resolve production issues while ensuring system stability and performance.

Work with business and technical teams to gather requirements and implement enhancements.

Support mainframe modernization initiatives and integration with distributed cloud platforms.

Participate in code reviews| testing| deployments| and release activities.

Create and maintain technical documentation and operational runbooks.


EEOC Compliance:

We are an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment.


DISCLAIMER

AI Usage Policy: Pacer Group uses AI to assist in screening applications. Final hiring decisions are made by human recruiters based on qualifications and experience.