1

Mainframe Programmer Jobs in Toronto, ON (NOW HIRING)

Associate to have a mainframe experience of 5 or more years. Should have good knowledge on regular ... Must have knowledge and experience in using the tools like JIRA, Confluence, Git, IBM Z developer ...

Since its inception in 1968, TCS has upheld the highest standards of innovation, engineering ... Mainframe QE/ Testing Tech stack/ Key technologies: IBM Mainframe - JCL, COBOL, SQL, DB2, IMS ...

New

Mainframe Project Manager

Toronto, ON · Remote

CA$70K - CA$165K/yr

At Capgemini Engineering, the world leader in engineering services, we bring together a global team ... The ideal candidate will have deep expertise in IBM Mainframe technologies, including zOS, AS400 ...

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 ...

This role works closely with : mainframe engineering teams, application operations and application development teams. You will collaborate with and advise senior engineering leadership of ongoing ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Mainframe Programmer information

What does a mainframe programmer do?

A mainframe programmer writes, tests, and maintains software for large-scale mainframe computers, often using languages like COBOL, PL/I, or Assembler. They work on critical business applications, ensure system stability, and may troubleshoot hardware or software issues in a mainframe environment.

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 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 mainframe environments, programming languages, and tools like COBOL and JCL. While AI can assist with automation and code analysis, it is unlikely to fully replace mainframe programmers in managing, maintaining, and developing critical enterprise systems in the near term.

How much do mainframe programmers make?

Mainframe programmers typically earn between $70,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Senior roles or those with specialized skills in COBOL, JCL, or mainframe security can command higher salaries. Compensation may also include benefits such as bonuses and retirement plans.

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 is the salary of a mainframe developer?

The salary of 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 security may earn higher salaries. Compensation often includes benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans.

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

Mainframe z/OS System Administrator/Programmer

VIRTUAL CLARITY LIMITED

Toronto, ON

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

Job Description:

DXC Technology (NYSE: DXC) is a leading enterprise technology and innovation partner delivering software, services, and solutions to global enterprises and public sector organizations - helping them harness AI to drive outcomes at a time of exponential change with speed. With deep expertise in Managed Infrastructure Services, Application Modernization, and Industry-Specific Software Solutions, DXC modernizes, secures, and operates some of the world's most complex technology estates. Learn more on dxc.com.

Mainframe z/OS System Administrator/Programmer

We are seeking an experienced Mainframe z/OS System Administrator/Programmer to support enterprise z/OS environments, including system builds, software installation, upgrades, migrations, and disaster recovery activities.

Key Responsibilities

  • Install and maintain z/OS (MVS) software using SMP/E
  • Perform software packaging, zaps, PTFs, HIPERs, and product upgrades
  • Support Maintenance IPLs, system refreshes, migrations, and CPU swaps
  • Execute LPAR builds, decommissions, and zLinux LPAR creation
  • Perform Disaster Recovery drills and system recovery activities
  • Maintain Coupling Facility / Sysplex, IOGENs, and I/O configurations
  • Manage OMVS / USS / zFS, web server and HTTP activities
  • Update and reassemble system exits
  • Process SMF data and maintain system profiles
  • Apply software license keys and maintain asset records
  • Participate in audits, vulnerability remediation, and change management
  • Provide 24x7 oncall support as part of a rotation

Required Skills

  • Strong experience with z/OS System Programming
  • Expertise with SMP/E, software installation, and maintenance
  • Experience with DR, IPLs, migrations, and hardware refreshes
  • Knowledge of Sysplex, Coupling Facility, IOGENs
  • Familiarity with OMVS / USS / zLinux
  • ITIL processes: Incident, Problem, Change, Asset Management
  • REXX, Assembler, and ISPF dialog scripting experience

Nice to Have

  • zLinux SME experience
  • Large enterprise or regulated environment background

DXC is an equal opportunity employer. We welcome the many dimensions of diversity. Accommodation of special needs for qualified candidates may be considered within the framework of the DXC Accommodation Policy.

In addition, DXC Technology is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodation to qualified individuals with physical and mental disabilities. If you need assistance in filling out the employment application or require a reasonable accommodation while seeking employment, please e-mail AODA Canada Requests.

Note: This option is reserved for applicants needing a reasonable accommodation related to a disability.

At DXC Technology, we believe strong connections and community are key to our success. Our work model prioritizes in-person collaboration while offering flexibility to support wellbeing, productivity, individual work styles, and life circumstances. We're committed to fostering an inclusive environment where everyone can thrive.

Recruitment fraud is a scheme in which fictitious job opportunities are offered to job seekers typically through online services, such as false websites, or through unsolicited emails claiming to be from the company. These emails may request recipients to provide personal information or to make payments as part of their illegitimate recruiting process. DXC does not make offers of employment via social media networks and DXC never asks for any money or payments from applicants at any point in the recruitment process, nor ask a job seeker to purchase IT or other equipment on our behalf.More information on employment scams is availablehere.