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Mainframe Programming Jobs in Detroit, MI (NOW HIRING)

Mainframe Operator

Pontiac, MI · On-site

$48.75 - $62.50/hr

Mainframe Operator Location: Pontiac, MI 48341 Duration: 6 MOnths Functions as a Level 1 Incident Manager for critical incidents/events relating to various IT technology. Quickly create, escalate ...

Mainframe Operator

Pontiac, MI · On-site

$48.75 - $62.50/hr

Opportunity Details Mainframe Operator Pontiac, MI Mainframe Operator * Functions as a Level 1 Incident Manager for critical incidents/events relating to various IT technology. * Quickly create ...

... mainframe tools. 5+ years in the development and maintenance of business applications utilizing the full SDLC * experienced in developing the conceptual architecture / design solution for projects

Mainframe Systems Engineer III

Detroit, MI

$171K - $202K/yr

The Mainframe Systems Engineer III candidate must have experience in one or more of the following disciplines: z/OS installation and customization, storage management, hardware configuration ...

Ten years experience in programming using COBOL programming language. Eight years experience in programming using XGEN programming language. Eight years experience in programming using DMSII ...

Systems Analyst Programmer

Pontiac, MI · On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

Are you a seasoned and dynamic Systems Analyst or Mainframe Programmer looking to take the next step in your career? If so, consider joining our team! ABC Appliance is the parent company of ABC ...

Familiar with programming practices, such as test-driven development, continuous integration, and ... Mainframe Technologies: In-depth knowledge of COBOL, TSO, JCL, VSAM, CICS, DB2, CA-7, TSO/ISPF.

Mainframe Developer

Livonia, MI · On-site

$45.75 - $59/hr

They are seeking a Mainframe Developer to design, develop, and maintain Mainframe COBOL & JCL to meet support and project requirements, while providing application support and managing product ...

New

IT Programmer

Farmington Hills, MI · On-site

$100K - $120K/yr

We are looking for a Mainframe Systems Programmer to support and optimize the AS400 and Mac-Pac environment that serves teams across the organization in Farmington Hills, Michigan. This role focuses ...

Software Development in Mainframe technologies using "COBOL, DB2, JCL, IMS DB/DC, MQ Series ... Engineering a high quality minimum viable product iteratively. * Prioritizing, grooming ...

Software Engineer #1052135 * We are seeking a highly experienced Senior Software Engineer for the ... Vehicle Invoicing and Drafting is a mission critical Mainframe Legacy application (with COBOL, JCL ...

Software Engineer #1058088 * We are seeking a highly experienced Senior Software Engineer for the ... Vehicle Invoicing and Drafting is a mission critical Mainframe Legacy application (with COBOL, JCL ...

Monitor execution of mainframe jobs during E2E tests. * Resolve environment and application issues found during E2E testing, communicate with developers and systems administrators, and log ...

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Mainframe Programming information

See Detroit, MI salary details

$9

$51

$69

How much do mainframe programming jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for mainframe programming in Detroit, MI is $51.42, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45.38 and $58.37 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.
Infographic showing various Mainframe Programming job openings in Detroit, MI as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 64% Full Time, and 36% Contract. Highlights an 93% In-person, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $106,945 per year, or $51.4 per hour.

Lead Mainframe Platform Engineer - CICS, MQ & zCEE

Huntington

Detroit, MI

$93K - $189K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago


Job description

Description

This position is an onsite position and available to be filled at any Huntington Corporate office location (see location options on posting)

The z/OS Platform CICS, MQ & zCEE Lead candidate must have extensive experience in performance management architecture, implementation, and management for a mission critical large mainframe systems environment. Required areas of experience include z/OS engineering, WLM (Workload Manager), CF, SMF Processing, DASD, Hardware configuration, Channels, IPL processes, CICS, zCEE, MQ, Parallel Sysplex, CICSPLEX, z/OS Networking, z/OS Performance Tuning, and Capacity Planning tools. Expertise in ICF/zIIP capacity and tuning, WLM configuration and troubleshooting, and z/OS engineering. In addition, candidate must have a proven history of platform road map development, project management skills, and executive level communication in these areas. Previous experience performing a z/OS CICS, MQ & zCEE lead role required. The candidate must be able to prioritize and complete work on time in an ever-changing and complex environment. Mentoring required with the wider team, mentoring skills and experience are necessary. The ability to read CICS dumps & traces considered a plus.

Detailed Description:

This candidate will be fulfilling an experienced systems mainframe engineer position.

  • Responsible for the overall health, security, resiliency, and performance of System z CICS for z/OS, MQ for z/OS, and z/OS zCEE across multiple Sysplexes and CECS
  • Responsible for the z/OS networking for CICS, MQ and zCEE connectivity requirements (TCPIP, LU6.2, Sockets, EXCI, ETC.)
  • Manage overall platform documentation, reports including all KPIs, charts, end-to-end workflow diagrams of all system z software zCEE, CICSand MQ.
  • Develop and present z/OS zCEE, CICSand MQ, HA (SYSPLEX/CICSPLEX roadmaps
  • Lead problem troubleshooting efforts and root cause analyses of all P1 & P2 System z zCEE, CICSand MQ related incidents.
  • Develop, document, and deliver pre- and post-implementation analysis ofSystem z tech refreshes and application releases.
  • Eliminate reoccurring issues and drive down mean time to recovery.
  • Provide technical direction and education to programmers, analysts, and technical support associates.
  • Prototypes the new features, functions, and strategies of new application subsystems technology.
  • Candidate must be motivated and assertive while possessing the ability to oversee and prioritize multiple tasks in a team environment.
  • Coordinates with programming application users to determine symptoms and ensure accurate problem resolution.
  • Provides 24x7 on call support within a team rotation.

Basic Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree or 4+ additional years of equivalent experience.
  • 7+ years of professional experience in z/OS / CICS, MQ or zCEE engineering.
  • 3+ years in a lead role, or Project Management (roadmapping), or developing KPIs for delivery.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Expert knowledge of systems z including DB2 for z/OS, CICS for z/OS, zCEE for z/OS, & MQ for z/OS along with mainframe related tools such as BMC Mainview, IBM -CICS Interdependency Analyzer, IBM -CICS Performance analyzer, SMPE, ISPF, SMS, SMF, GDPS.
  • Excellent interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills; ability to effectively interface and partner with all levels of the organization.
  • Maintain "State of the Art' knowledge of best practices in systems capacity, Security, administration, performance, high availability, metrics, and business continuity specifically for all systems z including DB2 for z/OS, CICS for z/OS or MQ for z/OS.
  • Comprehensive knowledge of CICS Security (Keyring Certificates, TLS, Resource access & RACF)
  • Proficient in SRE concepts and automation
  • Proven experience in creating the roadmap, processes, best practices, standards, and strategies for continuous improvement of monitoring, performance, resiliency, availability, and scalability of zCEE, CICSand MQ on system z.
  • Experience as a technical lead, driving technical direction, owning the portfolio of technology, and growing the larger team.
  • REXX experience


Exempt Status: (Yes= not eligible for overtime pay) (No= eligible for overtime pay)

Yes

Workplace Type:

Office

Our Approach to Office Workplace Type

Certain positions outside our branch network may be eligible for a flexible work arrangement. We're combining the best of both worlds: in-office and work from home. Our approach enables our teams to deepen connections, maintain a strong community, and do their best work. Remote roles will also have the opportunity to come together in our offices for moments that matter. Specific work arrangements will be provided by the hiring team.

Compensation Range:

$93,000 - $189,000 Annual Salary

The compensation range represents the anticipated low and high end of the base compensation range for this position. Actual compensation will vary based on various factors including but not limited to location, experience, and education. Colleagues in this position are also eligible to participate in an applicable incentive compensation plan. In addition, Huntington provides a variety of benefits to colleagues, including health insurance coverage, wellness program, life and disability insurance, retirement savings plan, paid leave programs, paid holidays and paid time off (PTO).

Huntington is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Tobacco-Free Hiring Practice: Visit Huntington's Career Web Site for more details.

Note to Agency Recruiters: Huntington will not pay a fee for any placement resulting from the receipt of an unsolicited resume. All unsolicited resumes sent to any Huntington colleagues, directly or indirectly, will be considered Huntington property. Recruiting agencies must have a valid, written and fully executed Master Service Agreement and Statement of Work for consideration.