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Mainframe Programming Jobs in Pittsburgh, PA (NOW HIRING)

E*Pro, Inc.

Hogan Mainframe Developer

Pittsburgh, PA

$47.50 - $61.25/hr

Looking for a Hogan Mainframe Developer at Pittsburgh, PA ( Fulltime/Permanent & Onsite), please suggest someone whom you know might will be looking for a change Fullrime/Permanent & Onsite ...

Judge Group, Inc.

Mainframe Developer

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

$110K - $120K/yr

Mainframe Developer Location: Pittsburgh PA , (HIGHLY PREFERRED ) Strongsville, OH Fulltime Must Have Technical/Functional Skills: * Languages: COBOL, JCL, SQL, PL/I. * Databases: DB2, VSAM.

Tata Consultancy Service Limited

Engineer

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

$100K - $110K/yr

Mainframe Developer Must Have Technical/Functional Skills: * Strong experience in COBOL and JCL. * Knowledge of mainframe utilities and tools (e.g., IDCAMS, SORT). * Experience with DB2, IMS, or VSAM ...

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Mainframe Programming information

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$9

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How much do mainframe programming jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for mainframe programming in Pittsburgh, PA is $51.82, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45.72 and $58.80 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
Mainframe Programmer - Security

Mainframe Programmer - Security

JS Consulting

Pittsburgh, PA • On-site

Contractor

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Job Title- Mainframe Programmer

Project Location – Onsite in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Duration- 6+ months contract

Skills must have: 15+ years of Mainframe Security experience

  • Serve as a subject matter expert on Mainframe Security Systems including ACF2, TSS, and RACF as a part of a vulnerability management projects.
  • zSecure Audit experience required (7-10 years)
  • Seeking an expert in Broadcom ACF2 and/or Top Secret (TSS)
  • z/OS ACF2 or TSS 10+ years 

Job Description

  • Resource provides day to day tactical execution of project. Including detailed analytics of various data points. Mainframe Security expert who will guide projects, asset modelling, and make project documentation entries as required.
  • Serve as a subject matter expert on Mainframe Security Systems including ACF2, TSS, and RACF as a part of a vulnerability management projects.
  • zSecure Audit experience required (7-10 years)
  • Leveraged z/OS ACF2/TSS/RACF STIG in hardening efforts.
  • Seeking an expert in Broadcom ACF2 and/or Top Secret (TSS)
  • Must know Mainframe REXX, IBM SYNC SORT, and ICETOOL
  • Direct interface with Client staff on training and day to day questions of our home-grown Vulnerability tool and other utility tools to manage vulnerabilities.
  • Determine security standards regarding z/OS hardening, security controls, and vulnerability remediation.
  • Communicate between mainframe engineering teams and information security teams.
  • z/OS security consulting / penetration testing background preferred
  • Good communication and documentation skills

Required Skills/Experience: 10+

Preferred Skills/ Experience:

1 zSecure Audit experience required (7-10 years)
 

1 z/OS ACF2 or TSS 10+ years 

2 Leveraged z/OS RACF STIG in hardening efforts.
 

2 Vulnerability Management (some exposure) 

3 z/OS security consulting / penetration testing background preferred

3 Good communicator and some exposure to JIRA, Confluence, and SharePoint

Education Requirement:  BS Degree and/or 15+ years of Mainframe Security experience

Education Preferred:  BS Degree and/or 15+ years of Mainframe Security experience

Software Skills Required (if applicable):  ACF2 or TSS Mainframe Security work, zSecure programming using CARLa code  

Required Testing (if applicable):  N/A