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Mainframe Programmer Jobs in Toronto, ON (NOW HIRING)

... 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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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

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 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?

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 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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, and 25% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Mainframe z/OS Systems Programmer

BMO Capital Markets

Toronto, ON • Hybrid

CA$75K - CA$141K/yr

Other

Medical, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 4 days ago


Job description

Application Deadline:

08/30/2026

Address:

4100 Gordon Baker Road

Job Family Group:

Technology

As a Mainframe z/OS Systems Programmer, you will be responsible for developing and implementing IT mainframe infrastructure and platform strategies. Your role will involve ensuring the reliability and security of our mainframe systems, supporting disaster recovery procedures, and collaborating with stakeholders to recommend infrastructure solutions. Your expertise in z/OS system skills will be crucial in maintaining and upgrading our mainframe environment. This is a hybrid role and will require a minimum of 2 days in our Scarborough office.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Develop and implement IT mainframe infrastructure and platform strategies to support business needs and growth.

  • Design, build, install, test, maintain, monitor, and upgrade mainframe infrastructure.

  • Manage current and future technical platform hardware, operating systems, security, and system services layers.

  • Ensure reliable and secure computing and communications capabilities to run business software with optimal cost and availability.

  • Support disaster recovery procedures and troubleshoot network and connectivity issues promptly to minimize disruption.

  • Collaborate with stakeholders to recommend infrastructure solutions based on engineering requirements.

  • Build effective relationships with internal and external stakeholders to support strategic initiatives.

  • Conduct independent analysis and assessment to resolve strategic issues.

  • Break down strategic problems, analyze data, and provide insights and recommendations.

  • Ensure infrastructure solutions are scalable, flexible, supportable, fully monitored, and standardized.

  • Identify opportunities to strengthen the technology organization by sharing expertise, mentoring employees, and building communities of practice.

  • Stay abreast of industry trends through professional associations, practice communities, and individual learning.

  • Exercise judgment to identify, diagnose, and solve problems within given rules.

  • Work independently on a range of complex tasks, including unique situations.

  • Additional responsibilities as assigned.

Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field.

  • Typically, between 5-7 years of relevant experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

  • Comfortable with mainframe tools/components such as TSO, ISPF, NetView, RACF, SMP, and TCP/IP.

  • Working knowledge of mainframe concepts such as LPARs, SYSPLEX, and MVS.

  • Expert knowledge in Unix System Services, RACF, Certificates

  • Possesses a deep understanding and problem-solving ability leveraging logs and dumps

  • Capable of installing, maintaining, and upgrading mainframe software in z/OS using SMP/E

  • Strong verbal and written communication skills.

  • Excellent collaboration and team skills.

  • In-depth analytical and problem-solving skills.

  • Data-driven decision-making abilities.

Nice to Have:

  • Working knowledge of z/OS, Vanguard and Broadcom products, TCP/IP

Salary:

$75,900.00 - $141,900.00

Pay Type:

Salaried

The above represents BMO Financial Group's pay range and type.

Salaries will vary based on factors such as location, skills, experience, education, and qualifications for the role, and may include a commission structure. Salaries for part-time roles will be pro-rated based on number of hours regularly worked. For commission roles, the salary listed above represents BMO Financial Group's expected target for the first year in this position.

BMO Financial Group's total compensation package will vary based on the pay type of the position and may include performance-based incentives, discretionary bonuses, as well as other perks and rewards. BMO also offers health insurance, tuition reimbursement, accident and life insurance, and retirement savings plans. To view more details of our benefits, please visit:https://jobs.bmo.com/global/en/Total-Rewards

About Us

At BMO we are driven by a shared Purpose: Boldly Grow the Good in business and life. It calls on us to create lasting, positive change for our customers, our communities and our people. By working together, innovating and pushing boundaries, we transform lives and businesses, and power economic growth around the world.

As a member of the BMO team you are valued, respected and heard, and you have more ways to grow and make an impact. We strive to help you make an impact from day one - for yourself and our customers. We'll support you with the tools and resources you need to reach new milestones, as you help our customers reach theirs. From in-depth training and coaching, to manager support and network-building opportunities, we'll help you gain valuable experience, and broaden your skillset.

To find out more visit us at https://jobs.bmo.com/ca/en.

BMO is committed to an inclusive, equitable and accessible workplace. By learning from each other's differences, we gain strength through our people and our perspectives. Accommodations are available on request for candidates taking part in all aspects of the selection process. To request accommodation, please contact your recruiter.

Note to Recruiters: BMO does not accept unsolicited resumes from any source other than directly from a candidate. Any unsolicited resumes sent to BMO, directly or indirectly, will be considered BMO property. BMO will not pay a fee for any placement resulting from the receipt of an unsolicited resume. A recruiting agency must first have a valid, written and fully executed agency agreement contract for service to submit resumes.