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Mainframe Programming Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Seven Seven Software

Mainframe Developer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$50.50 - $65/hr

Expert knowledge on mainframe programming languages and technologies namely COBOL, DB2, JCL, CICS, Mainframe MQ, VSAM and NDM * Strong understanding of the concept of relational databases with ...

Kanak Elite Services Inc

Mainframe Developer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$50.50 - $65/hr

MAINFRAME DEVELOPER Location: Chicago, IL (Full Onsite, Open to Relocating Candidates) Visa: Any visa except H1B We're looking for a Mainframe Developer to join our team! If you're experienced with ...

Kanak Elite Services Inc

Mainframe Developer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$50.50 - $65/hr

Mainframe Developer (12+ YEARS) Location: Chicago, IL • Required Years of Experience: At least 12+ years of relevant experience • 12+ years of experience as a Mainframe Developer Required Skills ...

Two95 International Inc.

Mainframe Developer

Rosemont, IL · On-site

$49.25 - $63.50/hr

Mainframe Developer Location: Rosemont,IL Duration: Fulltime Mainframe-L2 (Mandatory) As a Lead, you are responsible for managing a small team of analysts, developers, testers or engineers and drive ...

TEKsystems

Mainframe Engineer

Chicago, IL

$10 - $70/hr

The engineer will play a critical role in proofing the mainframe platform, ensuring technical compatibility, stability, and performance as the stack evolves. Core Responsibilities z/OS Platform ...

Two95 International Inc.

Mainframe Developer

Rosemont, IL · On-site

$49.25 - $63.50/hr

Mainframe Developer Location: Rosemont,IL Duration: Fulltime Mainframe-L2 (Mandatory) As a Lead, you are responsible for managing a small team of analysts, developers, testers or engineers and drive ...

Two95 International Inc.

Mainframe Developer

Rosemont, IL

$49.25 - $63.50/hr

Mainframe Developer Location: Rosemont,IL Duration: Fulltime Mainframe-L2 (Mandatory) As a Lead, you are responsible for managing a small team of analysts, developers, testers or engineers and drive ...

Microgreen Technologies LLC

Mainframe Developer

Lisle, IL · Hybrid

$48.25 - $62.25/hr

Application Developer - Mainframe Work Location: Isle, IL (Hybrid) An Application Developer with expertise in IBM Mainframe zOS environments possesses a strong foundation in core zOS skills, such as ...

Seven Seven Software

Mainframe Developer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$50.50 - $65/hr

12+ years of experience as a Mainframe Developer Required Skill Set : * COBOL * CICS * NATURAL AND ADABAS * CA7 needs to be advanced level - Someone who can develop Batch Automation Scripts from ...

CYNET SYSTEMS

Mainframe Developer

Riverwoods, IL · On-site

$35 - $40/hr

The Mainframe Developer will be responsible for developing, enhancing, and maintaining mainframe applications along with supporting batch processing, production stability, and system integrations.

Barrow Wise Consulting

Mainframe Developer

Springfield, IL · On-site

$48.50 - $62.50/hr

The Mainframe Developer will support Barrow Wise's State of Illinois project and perform the ... Minimum five (5) years of experience with COBOL programming language * Minimum five (5) years of ...

Aroghia

Senior Mainframe Developer

Chicago, IL

Required Skills & Qualifications: 10+ years of hands-on experience in mainframe application development. Strong proficiency in COBOL, DB2, and VSAM. Solid understanding of JCL, CICS, and IMS ...

Broadcom

Mainframe Software Development Engineer

Lisle, IL · On-site

$48.25 - $62.25/hr

Required : • Bachelor's in Engineering and 5+ years of related experience or Master's degree in Engineering and 3+ years of related experience • At least 5+ years of experience of mainframe ...

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Mainframe Programming information

See Illinois salary details

$9

$51

$70

How much do mainframe programming jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for mainframe programming in Illinois is $51.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45.67 and $58.70 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Can mainframe be replaced by AI?

Mainframe programming involves maintaining large-scale, reliable systems used in industries like finance and government. While AI can automate certain tasks such as code analysis and testing, it is unlikely to fully replace mainframe programmers due to the complexity, security, and specialized knowledge required for mainframe environments. Skilled mainframe developers are still in demand for system maintenance, optimization, and integration tasks.

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 environments may earn higher salaries. Compensation often includes benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans.

Is mainframe still in demand?

Mainframe programming remains in demand in industries such as finance, insurance, and government, where large-scale, reliable transaction processing is essential. Many organizations continue to maintain and upgrade legacy mainframe systems, requiring skilled programmers familiar with languages like COBOL and tools such as JCL and CICS. This demand is expected to persist due to the high cost and complexity of migrating mainframe environments.

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 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 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.

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.

Does mainframe need coding?

Mainframe programming requires coding skills, typically in languages like COBOL, PL/I, or Assembler. Mainframe professionals often write, test, and maintain code to support business applications and data processing tasks.
Mainframe Programming jobs near you
Infographic showing various Mainframe Programming job openings in Illinois as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $107,587 per year, or $51.7 per hour.

Mainframe Developer

Seven Seven Software

Chicago, IL • On-site

$50.50 - $65/hr

Full-time

Posted 19 hours ago

Job description

Qualifications
  • Minimum seven years of mainframe applications development and production support work experience
  • Solid application design, coding, testing, maintenance and debugging skills
  • Proficient with the various mainframe development tools and software including zEKE, CA7, Changeman, Endevor, CA-View, File-Aid, and Abend-Aid
  • Expert knowledge on mainframe programming languages and technologies namely COBOL, DB2, JCL, CICS, Mainframe MQ, VSAM and NDM
  • Strong understanding of the concept of relational databases with concrete DB2 SQL skill

Plusses
  • Experience with Compute Grid
  • Background on Websphere Application Server hosted on zOS

Job Requirements

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