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Mainframe Programming Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Mainframe Developer

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$54 - $69.50/hr

Job Summary We are looking for an experienced Mainframe Developer with strong COBOL and mainframe technologies expertise. The candidate will help modernize and migrate legacy mainframe applications ...

New

Mainframe Developer

Rosemont, IL

$49.25 - $63.50/hr

Mainframe Developer Location: Rosemont,IL Duration: Fulltime Mainframe-L2 (Mandatory) As a Lead, you are responsible for managing a small team of analysts, developers, testers or engineers and drive ...

... programming is a plus. - Specific Certifications: Relevant certifications in mainframe and distributed technologies are desirable. - Skills: Effective communication, collaboration, and problem ...

Mainframe Developer

Charlotte, NC · On-site

$47.75 - $61.50/hr

Mainframe Developer with ACH knowledge * Minimum 10+ years of experience in Mainframe knowledge. * Must have commercial payments exp - Knowledge of Pep+ is required. * Strong knowledge of handling ...

Mainframe Developer

Tampa, FL · On-site

$46.25 - $59.50/hr

Mainframe Developer Experience: 10+ Years Tampa, FL 45 Miles * 10+ years' Mainframe Application/COBOL development experience * 7+ years' experience in CICS/DB2/VSAM/MQ application development

Mainframe Developer

Wilmington, DE · On-site

$47.50 - $61.25/hr

Mainframe Developer Location: Wilmington, Delaware (Onsite) Job Type: Contract Responsibilities: Primary Skill: VSAM, COBOL, DevOps * Design, code, test, and maintain mainframe applications using ...

Mainframe Engineer

Dallas, TX · Hybrid

$48.75 - $62.50/hr

Mainframe Engineer Location: Dallas,TX (Day 1 onsite - Hybrid 3 days a week in office) Duration: Long Term Contract 24x7 Mainframe Operations leadership / L1-L2 support Responsible for production ...

New

US Quality Engineer - Mainframe

Charlotte, NC · On-site

$47.75 - $61.50/hr

... programming • CICS (Customer Information Control System) • MQ (Messaging Queue) • z/OS Connect • Mainframe modernization • System integration and migration • Cross-functional team ...

Mainframe Developer

New York, NY · On-site

$53.50 - $69/hr

Job Summary We are looking for an experienced Mainframe Developer with strong COBOL and mainframe technologies expertise. The candidate will help modernize and migrate legacy mainframe applications ...

New

Job Title: Senior Mainframe Developer Location : Tampa, FL (5 Days Onsite) Job Type: W-2/Full Time Exp-10 Years Role Overview We are seeking a highly experienced Mainframe Developer with deep ...

Mainframe Developer

New York, NY · On-site

$53.50 - $69/hr

... programming languages. - Demonstrate excellent communication skills and a willingness to learn and grow within the role. - Hold a minimum Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or ...

Mainframe Developer

Quincy, MA · On-site

$51.50 - $66.25/hr

Mainframe Developers (Solid work experience from Capital Markets and Mainframe Development in Fund Accounting (Accounting Platforms) area) Location : Quincy, MA Onsite/Hybrid : 4 days work from ...

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Mainframe Programming information

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$10

$53

$72

How much do mainframe programming jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for mainframe programming in the United States is $53.38, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47.12 and $60.58 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.
More about Mainframe Programming jobs
What cities are hiring for Mainframe Programming jobs? Cities with the most Mainframe Programming job openings:
What states have the most Mainframe Programming jobs? States with the most job openings for Mainframe Programming jobs include:
Sr. /Lead Mainframe Developer

Sr. /Lead Mainframe Developer

NAVA Software Solutions

Morristown, NJ • On-site

$50.50 - $64.75/hr

Full-time

Posted 28 days ago


Job description

NAVA Software solutions is looking for a Mainframe Developer.
Details:
Mainframe Developer
Location: Memphis TN(Preferred)., Somerset NJ, Austin TX(Preferred), St. Louis MO, Morristown NJ - Remote to start
Duration: 12 months
Qualifications:
  • 5 - 8 years of relevant experience in IBM Mainframes development
  • Technical expertise in Mainframes including COBOL, CICS, DB2 database, Teradata and JCL
  • Experience in RDMS data bases and strong SQL query skills
  • Experience working with file systems
  • Experience in working with offshore/Onshore model
  • Client-facing experience in supporting applications by monitoring and resolving in high priority production issues/bugs
  • Experience working in Agile/Kanban methodology

Desired:
  • PBM domain experience

NAVA Software Solutions logo

About NAVA Software Solutions

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

NAVA is a strategic partner for companies seeking to develop or customize software and products. Our team of experts leverages cutting-edge technology and deep industry knowledge to provide customized solutions that drive business success. Whether you're looking to improve your operations, increase efficiency, or bring a new product to market, NAVA has the expertise and resources to help you achieve your goals. Trust us to be your partner in software and product development.

Industry

It services

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

Rocky Hill, CT, US

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