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Mainframe Programming Jobs in McLean, VA (NOW HIRING)

Mainframe Developer

Mclean, VA ยท 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 ...

Mainframe Developer

Mclean, VA ยท 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 ...

Mainframe Developer

Mclean, VA ยท 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 ...

Mainframe Engineering

Mclean, VA ยท 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 ...

Mainframe Engineer

Mclean, VA ยท 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 ...

The position focuses on troubleshooting and fixing programming defects, supporting nightly batch processing, and maintaining core banking systems built on COBOL mainframe technologies. The ideal ...

Mainframe developer

Mclean, VA ยท 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 ...

Senior Mainframe Developer (COBOL) Location: Primarily Remote Onsite Expectations: Monthly travel to Reston, VA for PI Planning Compensation: $83/HR Employment Type: W2 only About the Role We're ...

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 ...

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 ...

Mainframe Developer

Chantilly, VA

$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.

Mainframe SRE

Upper Marlboro, MD ยท On-site

$48.50 - $62.50/hr

Anivas Tech is seeking a Mainframe SRE to support our government agency IT operations. We are looking for a skilled professional with 3+ years of relevant experience who brings strong technical ...

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

Job Title: Mainframe Engineer Location: Vienna, VA Type: Long Term W-2 Contract Compensation ... Advanced REXX programming skills for automation routines and scripts. * Experience with IBM NetView ...

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Mainframe Programming information

See McLean, VA salary details

$10

$54

$74

How much do mainframe programming jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for mainframe programming in McLean, VA is $54.76, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48.32 and $62.16 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 near McLean, VA are hiring for Mainframe Programming jobs?

Cities near McLean, VA with the most Mainframe Programming job openings:

Mainframe Developer

Mclean, VA โ€ข On-site

Delan Associates, Inc
51 - 200 employees

$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)

Employment Type: CONTRACTOR