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Mainframe Programmer Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

AMERICAN SYSTEMS

Mainframe System Programmer

Mclean, VA

$120K - $140K/yr

... Programmer reviews all products and processes to verify the requirement of compatibility maintenance, schedule and implement changes as required and performs routine maintenance on mainframe systems.

AMERICAN SYSTEMS

Mainframe System Programmer

Mclean, VA · On-site +1

$120K - $140K/yr

... Programmer reviews all products and processes to verify the requirement of compatibility maintenance, schedule and implement changes as required and performs routine maintenance on mainframe systems.

System One

Mainframe Engineer

Merrifield, VA · Remote

Mainframe Engineer Location: Vienna, VA Type: Long Term W-2 Contract Compensation: Negotiable Work Model: Hybrid - onsite and remote Hours: 40 hrs a week Security Clearance: None but full background ...

A.C. Coy

Mainframe Operator

Washington, DC · On-site

Duties include setting up printers based on instructions from mainframe computer consoles, loading paper, toner, and developer, and promptly removing and organizing completed print jobs for customer ...

Accenture

Mainframe Specialist

Herndon, VA

$70K - $196K/yr

About the Role Are you a seasoned Mainframe Specialist with deep, hands-on command of COBOL, JCL ... Partner with cross-functional teams-architects, developers, QA, and business analysts-to gather ...

TekCommands Inc

Sr Mainframe Developer / Support

Mclean, VA · On-site

$49.50 - $63.75/hr

Experience in mainframe systems Experience in Application Support Strong communication skills A minimum 8 - 10 years of systems analysis/application development experience Background in development ...

Avance Consulting Services

MainFrame

Mclean, VA · On-site

It provides strategic business consulting, technology, engineering and outsourcing services to help ... Qualifications MainFrames,Cobol,JCL,ISPW Additional Information All your information will be kept ...

Omm IT Solutions

Mainframe Computer Operator

Washington, DC · On-site

$55.25 - $71/hr

Load and unload paper, toner, and developer; ensure proper supply management. \n * Remove, organize ... Familiarity with mainframe console operations. \n * Ability to operate and maintain high\-speed ...

Pace solutions inc

Mainframe - HOGAN

Washington, DC · On-site

$55.50 - $71.25/hr

Mainframe - HOGAN Tech Lead Washington DC Good programming experience in COBOL, JCL, VSAM At least 3 years' experience on Hogan Core Banking Platform Design, code, new programs for online and batch ...

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All JobsMainframe Programmer JobsMainframe Programmer Jobs in Washington, DC

Mainframe Programmer information

See Washington, DC salary details

$43

$61

$75

How much do mainframe programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for mainframe programmer in Washington, DC is $61.27, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53.37 and $71.59 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.
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Mainframe Programmer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Mainframe Programmer job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 8% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 90% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $127,004 per year, or $61.1 per hour.

Mainframe Engineer - 17428

Seneca Resources Company, LLC

Vienna, VA • On-site

$75/hr

Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

Senior Mainframe Automation Engineer
Position Title: Senior Mainframe Automation Engineer
Location: Vienna, VA - Hybrid, 3 days onsite per week
Clearance Requirements: None specified
Position Status: Contract
Pay Rate: $75/Hr On W2
Experience: 10+ years
Openings: 1
Position Description
Seneca Resources is seeking a Senior Mainframe Automation Engineer to design, implement, and support enterprise-scale automation solutions across IBM z/OS environments. This role is ideal for a highly experienced mainframe professional with deep expertise in IBM System Automation for z/OS, REXX, IBM NetView, z/OS operations, and high-availability automation.
The successful candidate will investigate complex operational and technical challenges, develop scalable automation solutions, improve system reliability, and reduce manual intervention across critical business services. This position will also provide technical leadership, mentoring, and guidance while partnering with technical teams, business stakeholders, and leadership.
Key Responsibilities
  • Design, develop, implement, and maintain enterprise automation solutions for IBM z/OS environments.
  • Administer and configure IBM System Automation for z/OS (SA z/OS), including policy development, managed resource automation, automation definitions, resource dependency models, and policy database maintenance.
  • Develop advanced REXX programs, command processors, automation routines, operational tools, and automation scripts.
  • Configure and maintain IBM NetView automation, including automation tables, message automation, command lists, PIPEs, event processing, and policy-driven automation.
  • Develop and support automation across critical z/OS subsystems and middleware, including CICS, Db2, IMS, JES2/JES3, MQ, and TCP/IP.
  • Design automation for CICS availability, startup, shutdown, recovery, restart, and health monitoring.
  • Support Parallel Sysplex environments and cross-system automation strategies.
  • Develop high-availability, recovery, restart, and self-healing automation solutions.
  • Work with IBM Workload Scheduler, including IWS, TWS, and ZWS, to support enterprise workload automation.
  • Support z/OS UNIX System Services (USS/OMVS), including automation of UNIX processes and shell scripts.
  • Integrate mainframe automation with monitoring and event management platforms such as IBM OMEGAMON, ServiceNow, and Moogsoft.
  • Identify opportunities to automate operational processes across IBM z/Series, UNIX, and Windows platforms.
  • Troubleshoot complex operational, technical, and business problems and recommend reliable automation solutions.
  • Analyze requirements and translate business and technical needs into scalable automation strategies.
  • Lead, guide, and mentor technical team members while promoting automation best practices and continuous improvement.
  • Communicate complex technical concepts effectively to engineers, business partners, and senior leadership.
  • Participate in an on-call rotation when required.
  • Improve operational efficiency, system availability, reliability, and service resilience through automation.
Required Skills & Qualifications
  • 10+ years of experience in mainframe systems, automation engineering, systems programming, or a related technical discipline.
  • Expert-level experience with IBM System Automation for z/OS (SA z/OS).
  • Advanced REXX programming experience.
  • Strong hands-on experience with IBM NetView and NetView automation.
  • Experience with automation tables, message automation, command lists, PIPEs, event processing, and policy-based automation.
  • Strong knowledge of IBM z/OS operating environments and mainframe operations.
  • Hands-on experience with CICS, Db2, IMS, JES2/JES3, MQ, and TCP/IP.
  • Experience developing CICS automation, including startup, shutdown, recovery, restart, availability, and health monitoring.
  • Strong understanding of Parallel Sysplex and cross-system automation.
  • Proficiency with JCL, SDSF, TSO/ISPF, and z/OS operational processes.
  • Experience with IBM Workload Scheduler, IWS, TWS, and/or ZWS.
  • Experience with z/OS UNIX System Services (USS/OMVS) and shell scripting.
  • Experience integrating automation with monitoring and event management tools.
  • Strong troubleshooting, analytical, research, prioritization, and problem-solving abilities.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Demonstrated ability to lead, mentor, and collaborate with technical and business teams.
  • Ability to identify automation opportunities and deliver solutions that reduce manual effort and improve operational reliability.
  • Ability to participate in an on-call rotation as needed.
Preferred / Nice-to-Have Skills
  • Bachelor's degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • Experience with IBM OMEGAMON, including situation development, alerting, and monitoring customization.
  • Experience with GDPS and disaster recovery automation.
  • Knowledge of SMP/E maintenance and z/OS system programming concepts.
  • Experience with Ansible and automation using REST APIs.
  • Familiarity with mainframe modernization technologies and initiatives.
  • Knowledge of current mainframe automation standards, emerging technologies, and industry best practices.
About Seneca Resources
At Seneca Resources, we are more than just a staffing and consulting firm, we are a trusted career partner. With offices across the U.S. and clients ranging from Fortune 500 companies to government organizations, we provide opportunities that help professionals grow their careers while making an impact.
When you work with Seneca, you're choosing a company that invests in your success, celebrates your achievements, and connects you to meaningful work with leading organizations nationwide. We take the time to understand your goals and match you with roles that align with your skills and career path.
Our consultants and contractors enjoy competitive pay, comprehensive health, dental, and vision coverage, 401(k) retirement plans, and the support of a dedicated team who will advocate for you every step of the way.
Seneca Resources is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer, committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where all qualified individuals are encouraged to apply.

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