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Mainframe Programming Jobs in Pasadena, CA (NOW HIRING)

AG Technologies

SAS Engineer

Pasadena, CA · On-site

The current SAS programs are developed on Mainframe and individual PCs (PC SAS). Client will be migrating all SAS programs to a Linux based SAS Server and leverage SAS EG (enterprise guide) during ...

Net2Source (N2S)

Sr QA Mainframe

Torrance, CA · On-site

Sr QA Mainframe Local to Torrance, CA - in office 8 hrs/ Tues-Thurs Contract Description of ... Partner with Business Analysts, Product Owners, Project Managers, Solution Architects, Developers ...

New

Scalence L.L.C.

Senior SQL and ETL Engineer

Downey, CA · On-site

$106K - $146K/yr

... programming. • At least four (4) years of that experience must have been in a lead capacity. • ... with mainframe including data extraction, mapping, and conversion into modern ETL/ELT pipelines ...

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Mainframe Programming information

See Pasadena, CA salary details

$11

$58

$78

How much do mainframe programming jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for mainframe programming in Pasadena, CA is $58.23, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51.39 and $66.06 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.
Mainframe Programming jobs near you
Infographic showing various Mainframe Programming job openings in Pasadena, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 73% Full Time, and 27% Contract. Highlights an 73% In-person, 18% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $121,108 per year, or $58.2 per hour.

Z/OS Network systems programmer

Stratedge IT Consulting INC

Downey, CA

$53 - $56/hr

Contractor

Posted 24 days ago

Job description

Position Title: Z/OS Network systems programmer
Location: 9150 E. Imperial Hwy., Downey, CA, 90242
Submittal Due: 08/13/2026
Onsite role.
LiveScan Required: No
Background checks: Yes

Position Description A Mainframe Systems Programmer/DBA is responsible for leading and/or supporting the most complex database upgrade projects, modification, installation, testing, implementation, maintenance and enhancements of new or existing system software products. This classification must plan, install, configure, test, implement and manage core database products, software products in support of the County’s database architecture and business needs. Special organizational or functional industry position titles for Systems Programmer/DBA include, but are not limited to, DB2 Systems Programmer/DBA, IMS Systems Programmer/DBA and ADABAS/NATURAL Systems Programmer/DBA.   Skills Required The Mainframe Systems Programmer/DBA for Legacy Systems manages different types of databases, such as hierarchical (IMS), relational (DB2), and file-based (ADABAS), and is responsible for planning and upgrading the database environments on a County-established basis; verifying the health of all the databases; database administration technical consulting for application and operations teams for the purpose of project planning/development; maintenance on production database systems; performance of technical reviews for existing systems that utilize one of the following database management systems (DBMS): ADABAS, DB2 or IMS; performance of evaluations for the purposes of selecting new or fine-tuning existing DBMS software; consultation with project development teams to provide recommendations on database design; development of logical and physical database designs; creation of overviews of logical database designs; creation of physical databases; database capacity planning; development and use of backup and recovery procedures for databases; database performance monitoring; database space monitoring; database reorganizations; database replication; database compression and database partitioning. The following technology skill sets are required to perform in this classification. IBM: Z/OS, IMS, DB2, ADABAS, SMP/E, JCL, IMS DB/DC, CICS, ACF2, ASSEMBLER/COBOL/REXX, IBM FILE MANAGER, DELTA/IMS, NATURAL/ SUPERNAT, ENTIREX, CA SPOOL, IMS & DB2 BMC Tools, N20/TRIM.   Experience Required This classification must have a minimum of seven (7) years of experience as a Systems Programming/ DBA, with at least three (3) years of that experience in a lead role.   Additional Experience Required 5 Years of Experience within the last 8 years with Z/OS Networking skills, HCD, IODF, Z/OSMF, SMP/E, LU 6.2 and Mainframe hardware experience. 5 Years of experience in DS8884, TS7760C Hardware management.   Education Required This classification requires the possession of a bachelor’s degree in an IT-related or engineering field.   Additional Information This position is strictly on-site with regular visits 10% to the datacenters located in El Segundo and Anaheim to help with migrations, caballing and upgrades. the candidate is to have a valid driver license with no restrictions and access to a vehicle for travel. county will not reimburse for travel/gas.