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Mainframe Programmer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Analytica

z/OS Mainframe Programmer

Washington, DC · On-site +1

Analytica is seeking a remote z/OS Mainframe Programmer to support a long standing federal government project. The candidate will be responsible for designing and implementing dynamic solutions.

CYNET SYSTEMS

COBOL / Mainframe Programmer

Columbia, SC · On-site

$61 - $66/hr

Pay Range: $61.30hr - $66.30hr Requirement/Must Have: * 10+ years of Mainframe experience. * 10+ years of MVS COBOL experience. * 10+ years of JCL experience. * 10+ years of IDMS/Network experience ...

Analytica

z/OS Mainframe Programmer

Washington, DC · Remote

Analytica is seeking a remote  z/OS Mainframe Programmer  to support a long standing federal government project. The candidate will be responsible for designing and implementing dynamic solutions.

Ask IT consulting

Mainframe Programmer

Raleigh, NC · On-site

Writing application software, data analysis, data access, data structures, data manipulation, databases, design, programming, testing and implementation, technical and user documentation, software ...

Stem Xpert

Mainframe Programmer

Salem, OR

Reviews, analyzes, and modifies programming systems including encoding, testing, debugging and documenting programs. May require an associate's degree in a related area and at least 2 years or ...

Infojini Inc

Mainframe programmer/Analyst

Austin, TX · On-site

Developer Analyst Duration: 6+ Months Location: Austin, TX Description Worker will perform highly ... enabling mainframe Natural programs Additional Information All your information will be kept ...

Infojini Inc

Z/OS Mainframe Programmer

Anderson, SC · On-site

$50.25 - $64/hr

Possesses a strong understanding of systems programming, graphical user interfaces and control ... REQUIRED EDUCATION : 10 YEARS OF PROGRESSIVE EXPERIENCE IN MAINFRAME TECHNICAL SUPPORT ...

SmartIMS Inc.

Mainframe Programmer

Princeton, NJ

Hands-on experience in coding, testing and debugging programs written in COBOL/CICS/DB2. Experience with IBM OS/JCL (MVS) and IBM/DB2. Experience in conversions for IDMS/DC to CICS, IDMS to DB2.

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How much do mainframe programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for mainframe programmer in the United States is $54.11, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47.12 and $63.22 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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.

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Mainframe Programmer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Mainframe Programmer job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 2% Part Time, 9% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 90% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $112,558 per year, or $54.1 per hour.
z/OS Mainframe Programmer

z/OS Mainframe Programmer

Analytica

Washington, DC • On-site, Remote

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

Analytica is seeking a remote z/OS Mainframe Programmerto support a long standing federal government project. The candidate will be responsible for designing and implementing dynamic solutions.
Analytica has been recognized by Inc. Magazine as a fastest-growing private US small business. We work with U.S. government customers in health, civilian, and national security missions. Analytica offers competitive compensation with opportunities for bonuses, employer paid health care, training and development funds, and 401k match.
Responsibilities include (but not limited to):
  • Develop, maintain, and enhance legacy mainframe applications that support IRS tax processing, compliance, and data management systems.
  • Write, test, and troubleshoot programs using Assembler, JCL, and related IBM z/OS utilities.
  • Monitor and manage batch jobs through SDSF and other system tools, ensuring timely and accurate processing.
  • Debug and resolve production issues, performing root-cause analysis and ensuring system stability.
  • Manage code changes and version control using Endevor in compliance with IRS change management procedures.
  • Transfer and integrate data across systems using FTP/SFTP and other mainframe file management tools.
  • Collaborate with business and technical teams to analyze requirements, design solutions, and implement enhancements.
  • Document system specifications, program logic, and procedures to support maintenance and knowledge transfer.
  • Ensure compliance with IRS security and data integrity standards, participating in audits and reviews as needed.
  • Contribute to modernization efforts, supporting integration of legacy systems with emerging technologies and improving overall system performance.

Basic Qualifications:
  • 5+ years of experience with Assembler Language programming and JCL
  • Experience with IBM z/OS, TSO/ISPF, SDSF, Endevor, and FTP/SFTP/Mainframe File Transfers
  • Strong debugging and troubleshooting skills using tools like IBM Debug Tool, FILE Manager, and SDSF
  • Understanding of QSAM access methods
  • Must be a US Citizen and have active IRS MBI Clearance

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Knowledge of Tax Processing Systems
  • Experience with SSA, SSAE, SSAF, or IDRS systems(specific IRS applications)
AboutANALYTICA:Analytica is a leading consulting and information technology solutions provider to public sector organizations supporting health, civilian, and national security missions. The company is an award winning SBA 8(a) small businessthat hasbeen recognized byInc. Magazineeach of the past three years as one of the 250 fastest-growingcompanies in theU.S. Analytica specializes in providing software and systems engineering, information management, analytics & visualization, agile project management, and management consulting services.The companyis appraised by theSoftware Engineering Institute (SEI) atCMMI® Maturity Level 3and is anISO 9001:2008 certifiedprovider.
Analytica LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all individuals, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. As a federal contractor, we comply with the Vietnam Era Veterans' Readjustment Assistance Act (VEVRAA) and take affirmative action to employ and advance in employment qualified protected veterans. We ensure that all employment decisions are based on merit, qualifications, and business needs. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind. Analytica LLC also provides reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities, in accordance with applicable law.
To enhance efficiency, fairness, and accuracy, Analytica may use AI-assisted tools to support certain aspects of our hiring process.
  • Application Review: AI tools may help identify skills and experiences relevant to the role.
  • Interview Support: AI-powered notetaking tools may be used during interviews to document discussions and summarize key points.

These tools are used to assist our team. All hiring decisions are made by Analytica recruiters and hiring managers.
By submitting an application, you acknowledge that AI-assisted tools may be used to support parts of the application and interview process.
When receiving email communication from Analytica, please ensure that the email domain is analytica.net to verify its authenticity.

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