ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Mainframe Programming Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Delan Associates, Inc.

Mainframe Developer

Mclean, VA · On-site

$49.50 - $63.75/hr

Mainframe Developer (Banking Domain) Location: McLean, VA (Onsite, 5 days/week) Note: This position is open to local candidates in McLean, VA only. Face-to-face (F2F) interviews are mandatory, so ...

Delan Associates, Inc

Mainframe Developer

Mclean, VA · On-site

$49.50 - $63.75/hr

Mainframe Developer (Banking Domain) Location: McLean, VA (Onsite, 5 days/week) Note: This position is open to local candidates in McLean, VA only. Face-to-face (F2F) interviews are mandatory, so ...

Delan Associates, Inc

Mainframe Developer

Mclean, VA · On-site

$49.50 - $63.75/hr

Mainframe Developer (Banking Domain) Location: McLean, VA (Onsite, 5 days/week) Note: This position is open to local candidates in McLean, VA only. Face-to-face (F2F) interviews are mandatory, so ...

Noblesoft Technologies

Mainframe Engineering

Mclean, VA · On-site

$40 - $45/hr

Mainframe Engineering Location : McLean, VA Required Knowledge * z/OS architectures and internals. * zSecure tool and Carla language (customization experience is a plus). * Mainframe security related ...

ConfigUSA

Mainframe Engineer

Mclean, VA · On-site

$49.50 - $63.75/hr

The Mainframe engineers responsibilities include: Technical Lead for Mainframe Platform (z/OS| Dell Storage| IMS| DB2| RACF| CA JobTrac) to govern operations| changes and sustainability upgrade ...

Stem Xpert

Mainframe developer

Mclean, VA · On-site

$49.50 - $63.75/hr

Mainframe developer Location: Mclean, VA Duration: contract or full time Skillset : Experience in Mainframe (COBOL/JCL/DB2/IMS/CICS) - must have. Must have - Mainframe and IMS Good in analysis ...

VeridianTech

Mainframe Developer

Merrifield, VA · On-site

$49 - $62.75/hr

Mainframe Developer Location: Merrifield, VA (3 days' on-site required) Duration: 6-12 Month ... Advanced REXX programming experience developing enterprise automation solutions. * Strong ...

Atria Group LLC

Mainframe Developer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$50.25 - $64.50/hr

Our company provides application analysis, design, development and programming, software ... Hogan, COBOL, DB2, JCL, VSAM, Mainframe Utilities NOTE: ONLY US CITIZEN's OR GREEN CARD HOLDERS.

BRMi

Mainframe Engineer

Vienna, VA · On-site

Advanced REXX programming experience within enterprise mainframe environments. * Strong hands-on experience with IBM NetView, including automation tables, message automation, command lists, PIPEs ...

BRMi

Mainframe Engineer

Vienna, VA · On-site

Advanced REXX programming experience within enterprise mainframe environments. * Strong hands-on experience with IBM NetView, including automation tables, message automation, command lists, PIPEs ...

BRMi

Mainframe Engineer

Vienna, VA · On-site

Advanced REXX programming experience within enterprise mainframe environments. * Strong hands-on experience with IBM NetView, including automation tables, message automation, command lists, PIPEs ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsMainframe Programming JobsMainframe Programming Jobs in Virginia

Mainframe Programming information

See Virginia salary details

$10

$52

$71

How much do mainframe programming jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for mainframe programming in Virginia is $52.92, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46.73 and $60.05 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.

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Mainframe Programming jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Mainframe Programming job openings:

Mainframe Programming jobs near you
Infographic showing various Mainframe Programming job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 88% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $110,074 per year, or $52.9 per hour.

Mainframe Developer

Mclean, VA • On-site

Delan Associates, Inc.
51 - 200 employees
Learn more about Delan Associates, Inc.external

$49.50 - $63.75/hr

Contractor

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description

Position: Mainframe Developer (Banking Domain)
Location: McLean, VA (Onsite, 5 days/week)
Note: This position is open to local candidates in McLean, VA only. Face-to-face (F2F) interviews are mandatory, so candidates must be available to attend an in-person interview.
Job Summary
We are seeking an experienced Mainframe Developer with strong expertise in the Banking domain to design, develop, maintain, and support mission-critical mainframe applications. The ideal candidate should have hands-on experience with COBOL, JCL, DB2, CICS, VSAM, and IBM mainframe technologies, along with a solid understanding of banking processes such as deposits, loans, payments, cards, or core banking.
Key Responsibilities
Design, develop, test, and maintain IBM Mainframe applications
Analyze business and functional requirements and convert them into technical solutions
Develop and enhance applications using COBOL, JCL, CICS, DB2, and VSAM
Create and modify JCLs for batch processing and job scheduling
Perform code reviews, unit testing, integration testing, and production support
Troubleshoot production issues and perform root cause analysis
Optimize application performance and improve batch processing efficiency
Work with business analysts, QA teams, and stakeholders throughout the SDLC
Participate in system upgrades, migrations, and application modernization initiatives
Maintain technical documentation and follow development standards
Required Skills
Mainframe Technologies
COBOL
JCL (Job Control Language)
CICS
DB2
VSAM
IMS (preferred)
TSO/ISPF
IBM z/OS
File-AID
Endevor, Changeman, or ISPW
SDSF
SPUFI
Database
DB2
SQL
Version Control
Endevor
Changeman
Git (preferred)
Scheduling Tools
CA-7
Control-M
OPC/TWS (preferred)

Apply