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Mainframe Programming Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Sr. SW Engineer - Mainframe

Denver, CO · On-site

$126K - $166K/yr

... of mainframe software applications. The role is responsible for contributing to the overall ... The successful candidate will have a strong MVS, COBOL, JCL, PROCs programming background, proven ...

Adept with agile software development lifecycle and DevOps principles (Git) * Experience with COBOL development, debugging, and maintenance across complex mainframe applications * Experience with ...

Adept with agile software development lifecycle and DevOps principles (Git) * Experience with COBOL development, debugging, and maintenance across complex mainframe applications * Experience with ...

Bank is seeking a z/OS Systems Programmer that has extensive experience in mainframe technologies with an emphasis on installation/upgrading, tuning, and troubleshooting of z/OS and third-party ...

Director (Mainframe and GGS)

Denver, CO · Hybrid

$260K/yr

Coaches and develops engineers to adapt to evolving tools, frameworks, and AI-driven workflows ... Manage development resources on the IBM Mainframe Settlement and Reporting AND GGS applications, by ...

Leverage and build knowledge of software developer tools to create, debug, and maintain code for components. * Prepare technical documents, develop code, review code, build environment, review test ...

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Mainframe Programming information

See Colorado salary details

$10

$56

$76

How much do mainframe programming jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for mainframe programming in Colorado is $56.13, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49.52 and $63.70 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is mainframe programming?

Mainframe programming refers to the process of writing, maintaining, and troubleshooting software applications that run on mainframe computers, which are powerful systems used mainly by large organizations for critical operations. Mainframe programmers typically use languages like COBOL, JCL, and Assembler to develop software for batch processing, transaction management, and data processing. These roles require a deep understanding of mainframe operating systems, databases, and networking. Mainframes are known for their reliability, scalability, and ability to handle massive amounts of transactions, making mainframe programmers essential for industries like banking, insurance, and government.

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 other legacy programming languages, often supported by a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with mainframe environments like IBM z/OS, experience with tools such as TSO/ISPF, and certifications like IBM Certified System Programmer are highly valued. Analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help programmers solve complex problems and collaborate with stakeholders. These abilities are crucial for maintaining critical business systems, ensuring reliability, and supporting legacy infrastructure in large organizations.

What are some typical challenges mainframe programmers face when integrating legacy systems with modern technologies?

Mainframe programmers often encounter challenges when integrating legacy systems with newer applications, such as differences in programming languages, data formats, and communication protocols. Ensuring data integrity and maintaining system performance during such integrations can be complex, especially since mainframes often run critical business operations. Collaboration with cross-functional teams, such as front-end developers and system architects, is essential to bridge technical gaps and ensure seamless interoperability. Staying updated with new tools and middleware solutions can also help address these integration challenges effectively.

What is the difference between Mainframe Programming vs Mainframe System Analyst?

AspectMainframe ProgrammingMainframe System Analyst
Primary RoleWriting, testing, and maintaining mainframe codeAnalyzing system requirements and designing solutions
Skills & CertificationsCOBOL, JCL, DB2, certifications in mainframe technologiesBusiness analysis, system design, and project management skills
Work EnvironmentData centers, mainframe servers, coding labsOffice settings, client meetings, project planning
Industry UsageFinancial institutions, government agencies, large enterprisesSame as mainframe programming, often collaborating closely

While mainframe programmers focus on coding and maintaining mainframe applications, mainframe system analysts analyze business needs and design system solutions. Both roles require knowledge of mainframe technologies, but their responsibilities differ in scope and focus.

Is mainframe programming a good career?

Mainframe programming is a stable career with high demand in industries like finance, government, and healthcare that rely on legacy systems. It requires knowledge of languages such as COBOL and skills in maintaining large-scale, secure, and reliable systems, often with certifications and experience in mainframe environments. Job prospects are strong for those with specialized skills, though the field has a smaller, niche workforce compared to other programming areas.

Is mainframe programming still in demand?

Mainframe programming remains in demand in industries such as finance, healthcare, and government, where large-scale legacy systems are still operational. Skilled mainframe developers with knowledge of COBOL, JCL, and mainframe environments are sought after for maintaining and updating these critical systems.

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 use tools like JCL and DB2, often requiring knowledge of mainframe environments and certifications. Their role involves troubleshooting, optimizing performance, and supporting enterprise operations.
Infographic showing various Mainframe Programming job openings in Colorado as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 81% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 88% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $116,746 per year, or $56.1 per hour.

Mainframe Software Engineer

Boulder, CO • On-site

AllSTEM Connections
51 - 200 employees

$108K/yr

Temporary

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 11 days ago


Job description

We are seeking a meticulous and process-oriented Senior Software Engineer to join a highly skilled team dedicated to developing and supporting enterprise-level output management products on the mainframe platform.
This is a unique opportunity for an engineer who balances a "deep dive" technical mindset with the leadership capacity to guide complex software solutions. You will be responsible for the health, enhancement, and integration of mission-critical mainframe services, ensuring high efficiency and customer satisfaction through disciplined engineering practices.
Core Responsibilities
Systems Development & Optimization
• Full-Lifecycle Engineering: Scope, design, and develop complex components for software products within the z/OS ecosystem.
• Modernization: Ensure design and code development incorporates the latest technologies while maximizing mainframe resources.
• Problem Resolution: Act as a tier-three troubleshooter, digging beneath symptoms to uncover root causes and implementing guided fixes for intricate system issues.
Technical Leadership & Strategy
• Project Planning: Lead professional teams and multi-functional projects, ensuring deliverables are completed on or ahead of schedule without sacrificing quality.
• Advisory: Serve as a subject matter expert, advising other professionals on complex software issues and contributing to the development of broader organizational goals.
• Process Excellence: Define and implement software alternatives that improve team efficiency, creating or enhancing tools to streamline workflows.
Quality & Documentation
• Precision Reviews: Lead rigorous code and design reviews, applying a detail-driven approach to ensure polished, complete work.
• Knowledge Management: Maintain exhaustive documentation for systems, technical decisions, and alternative solutions to foster team-wide knowledge sharing.
Technical Requirements
• Education: BS Degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related technical discipline.
• Mainframe Expertise: Proven experience with IBM 360/370 architectures and MVS/SP.
• Language Proficiency: 1+ years of professional experience in Assembler, PL/1 (or PLX), C, and JCL.
• Engineering Background: 2+ years of formal Software Engineering experience with a focus on system/product design and integration.
The Ideal Profile
• Process-Oriented: You value accuracy over speed and are committed to maintaining clear, repeatable workflows.
• Continuous Learner: You are eager to further your expertise in low-level mainframe technologies through hands-on work and mentorship.
• Accountable: You understand that your decisions have a direct impact on project objectives and customer satisfaction, and you take ownership of those outcomes. Equal Opportunity Employer / Disabled / Protected Veterans
The Know Your Rights poster is available here:
https://www.eeoc.gov/sites/default/files/2023-06/22-088_EEOC_KnowYourRights6.12.pdf
The pay transparency policy is available here:
https://www.dol.gov/sites/dolgov/files/ofccp/pdf/pay-transp_%20English_formattedESQA508c.pdf
For temporary assignments lasting 13 weeks or longer, AllSTEM Connections is pleased to offer major medical, dental, vision, 401k and any statutory sick pay where required.
We are committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities. If you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment process, please contact your staffing representative who will reach out to our HR team.
AllSTEM Connections participates in the E-Verify program in certain locations as required by law. Learn more about the E-Verify program.
https://e-verify.uscis.gov/web/media/resourcesContents/E-Verify_Participation_Poster_ES.pdf
We also consider for employment qualified applicants regardless of criminal histories, consistent with legal requirements, including, if applicable, the City of Los Angeles' Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance. Pursuant to applicable state and municipal Fair Chance Laws and Ordinances, we will consider for employment-qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records, including, if applicable, the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance. For Los Angeles, CA applicants: Qualified applications with arrest or conviction records will be considered for employment in accordance with the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers and the California Fair Chance Act.
Additional Skills
(none specified)
AllSTEM Representative Contact Info
Account Executive:
Perry
Branch Phone:
(909) 244-1777
Location:
Houston, TX