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Mainframe Software Developer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Broadcom's Mainframe Software Division is looking for a talented and motivated Software Engineer ... Experience working in an Agile development methodology and an understanding of DevOps principles.

Senior Mainframe Software Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$143K - $189K/yr

Broadcom's Mainframe Software Division is seeking a talented and motivated Senior Mainframe ... Broadcom is a designer, developer, and global supplier of a broad range of analog and digital ...

Mainframe Developer

San Francisco, CA · Hybrid

$57.75 - $74.25/hr

Recruiting for this role ends on June 22nd, 2026 Qualifications Required * 4+ years of experience in software, systems, or embedded engineering * 4+ years of experience in Mainframe application ...

Mainframe Developer

Costa Mesa, CA · Hybrid

$52.50 - $67.50/hr

Recruiting for this role ends on June 22nd, 2026 Qualifications Required * 4+ years of experience in software, systems, or embedded engineering * 4+ years of experience in Mainframe application ...

Mainframe Developer

Fresno, CA · Hybrid

$48.75 - $62.50/hr

Recruiting for this role ends on June 22nd, 2026 Qualifications Required * 4+ years of experience in software, systems, or embedded engineering * 4+ years of experience in Mainframe application ...

Mainframe Developer

San Jose, CA · Hybrid

$57.50 - $73.75/hr

Recruiting for this role ends on June 22nd, 2026 Qualifications Required * 4+ years of experience in software, systems, or embedded engineering * 4+ years of experience in Mainframe application ...

Mainframe Developer

Sacramento, CA · Hybrid

$52.25 - $67.25/hr

Recruiting for this role ends on June 22nd, 2026 Qualifications Required * 4+ years of experience in software, systems, or embedded engineering * 4+ years of experience in Mainframe application ...

mainframe with java

Carlsbad, CA

$50.75 - $65.25/hr

Mainframe with java with 10+ YOE We are looking for experienced Software Engineers to participate in an Agile development environment producing functional software solutions for delivery to our ...

Broadcom's Mainframe Software Division (MSD) is looking for a talented and motivated Software Engineer with a passion for building high quality applications using agile practices to join our ...

Broadcom's Mainframe Software Division (MSD) is looking for a talented and motivated Software Engineer with a passion for building high quality applications using agile practices to join our ...

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Mainframe Software Developer information

See California salary details

$9

$52

$71

How much do mainframe software developer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for mainframe software developer in California is $52.68, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46.49 and $59.81 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How does a Mainframe Software Developer typically collaborate with cross-functional teams in a modern IT environment?

Mainframe Software Developers frequently work with cross-functional teams that include business analysts, system architects, QA testers, and DevOps engineers. Collaboration often involves participating in daily stand-ups, code reviews, and joint problem-solving sessions to ensure seamless integration of mainframe applications with newer technologies. Developers also play a key role in translating business requirements into robust mainframe solutions, and may be involved in mentoring junior developers or coordinating with offshore teams. This collaborative environment helps ensure that legacy systems remain aligned with evolving business needs and IT strategies.

What is a Mainframe Software Developer?

A Mainframe Software Developer is an IT professional who designs, develops, tests, and maintains software applications that run on mainframe computers. These developers typically work with programming languages such as COBOL, JCL, and Assembler, and are responsible for ensuring the performance and reliability of critical business systems used by large organizations. Mainframe Software Developers often collaborate with business analysts, project managers, and other IT staff to support and enhance legacy systems, as well as to integrate new technologies with existing mainframe infrastructure.

Is mainframe still in demand?

Mainframe software developers are still in demand, especially in industries like finance, government, and healthcare that rely on legacy systems. Many organizations seek professionals skilled in COBOL, JCL, and mainframe environments to maintain and modernize their infrastructure, ensuring ongoing job opportunities in this field.

What is the difference between Mainframe Software Developer vs Mainframe Systems Analyst?

AspectMainframe Software DeveloperMainframe Systems Analyst
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Computer Science or related field, certifications like IBM Certified SpecialistBachelor's in IT, Computer Science, or related, often with certifications in mainframe systems
Work EnvironmentDevelops and codes mainframe applications, often in COBOL, PL/I, or AssemblerAnalyzes system requirements, designs solutions, and coordinates between users and developers
Employer & Industry UsageFinancial institutions, government agencies, large corporations using mainframe systemsSame industries, focusing on system analysis, requirements gathering, and process improvements

While Mainframe Software Developers focus on coding and building mainframe applications, Mainframe Systems Analysts analyze existing systems and gather requirements to improve or implement new solutions. Both roles are essential in mainframe environments and often collaborate closely.

Can mainframe be replaced by AI?

Mainframe software developers work with large-scale, legacy systems that require specialized knowledge of mainframe environments, programming languages, and security protocols. While AI can automate certain tasks like data analysis and system monitoring, it is unlikely to fully replace mainframes or the need for skilled developers to maintain and optimize these critical systems in the near term.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Mainframe Software Developer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Mainframe Software Developer, you need expertise in COBOL, JCL, mainframe operating systems (such as z/OS), and a background in computer science or related fields. Familiarity with mainframe tools like IBM CICS, DB2, and version control systems, along with certifications such as IBM Certified System Programmer, is highly valued. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication set standout professionals apart in this field. These skills ensure the maintenance of critical legacy systems, support for business operations, and seamless integration with modern technologies.

What is the salary of a mainframe developer?

The salary of a mainframe software developer typically ranges from $70,000 to $120,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Senior developers with specialized skills in COBOL, JCL, or mainframe environments can earn higher salaries, often exceeding $130,000. Compensation may also include benefits such as bonuses and retirement plans.

How much do mainframe programmers make?

Mainframe software developers typically earn between $70,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Senior roles or those with specialized skills in COBOL, JCL, or mainframe security can command higher salaries, especially in industries like finance and government that rely heavily on mainframe systems.
What are popular job titles related to Mainframe Software Developer jobs in California? For Mainframe Software Developer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Mainframe Software Developer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Mainframe Software Developer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Mainframe Software Developer jobs? Cities in California with the most Mainframe Software Developer job openings:
Infographic showing various Mainframe Software Developer job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $109,572 per year, or $52.7 per hour.
Senior Mainframe Software Engineer

Senior Mainframe Software Engineer

Broadcom

San Jose, CA • On-site, Remote

$143K - $230K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago


Broadcom rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 23 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

10th of 139 rated electronics manufacturers


Job description

Please Note:

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Job Description:

Job Description:

Broadcom's Mainframe Software Division is looking for a talented and motivated Software Engineer with a passion for building high-quality applications using agile practices to join our team. We are building an ecosystem of tools and principles to help our Mainframe product teams deliver high-quality, accessible, and consistent software. This role is for a hands-on engineer who will work at the intersection of design and development to modernize our enterprise software products.

People who do well on this team are self-motivated engineers with a passion for our business and for technology innovation.

This position is concentrated on the mainframe platform, with development in Assembler language.

#Broadcomsoftware

In this role, you will:

  • Design and develop:Create high-quality software design and architecture for applications on the mainframe platform.
  • Build and implement:Produce, test, and debug functional software solutions, leveraging your Mainframe expertise to modernize our enterprise software.
  • Collaborate:Partner with product management and fellow software engineers in an Agile environment to define software requirements and deliver solutions.
  • Automate:Increase efficiency by automating tasks through appropriate tools and scripting.
  • Drive innovation:Contribute to a fast-paced environment with a passion for continuous improvement and technology innovation.

Key Responsibilities:

Collaboration and Leadership:

  • Collaborate with other product SW Engineers to share knowledge, best practices, and lessons learned.
  • Leads major initiatives/projects.
  • Sets direction for high-impact and/or long-range.
  • Coach and mentor software engineers, guiding them in their professional growth.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, ability to efficiently collaborate with multiple teams across geographically diverse areas.
  • Experience working in an Agile development methodology and an understanding of DevOps principles.

Engineering Excellence Initiatives:

  • Take the lead in engineering excellence initiatives, promoting best practices, code quality, and technical debt reduction.
  • Contribute to retrospectives and actively address impediments to team productivity.
  • Ensuring software is up-to date with latest technologies. Continue to build Mainframe expertise and keep abreast of new technology, processes, systems, and tools.
  • Represents the company at industry forum and conferences.

Required Skills & Competencies:

  • Proven Mainframe knowledge and skills.
  • IBM Assembler Language (HLASM) proficiency.
  • z/OS Operating system familiarity.
  • Experience working with CA 1 Flexible Storage, Vtape, DASD Storage Management, DFSMS, Allocate, DFShsm, DFSrmm and/or other mainframe storage products and systems is a plus.
  • Source control systems experience (Endevor / ISPW / etc.)
  • Experience with online z/OS debugger is desirable (XDC / SLD).
  • Strong analytical, problem solving and debugging skills.
  • Proficiency in Metal C (or PL/X), and JCL.
  • Scripting language experience is desirable.
  • Experience in developing authorized code is desirable.

Preferred Education:

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering or equivalent in a related field.

Work Experience:

Twelve or more years of experience in software development or a related field.

Business Travel and Physical Demands:

  • Minimal business travel is expected for this position.
  • Office environment. No special physical demands are required.

Why join our team?

At Broadcom, we value engineers who are self-motivated, passionate, and driven to innovate. Our team offers:

  • High impact:The opportunity to have a significant impact on our Mainframe product teams by building the foundational tools that modernize our software.
  • Great team culture:The Mainframe Software Division is known for its collaborative and supportive workplace culture.
  • Competitive compensation:We offer competitive salaries, valuable equity options, and comprehensive benefits.

Additional Job Description:

Compensation and Benefits

The annual base salary range for this position is$143,800 - 230,000

This position is also eligible for a discretionary annual bonus in accordance with relevant plan documents, and equity in accordance with equity plan documents and equity award agreements.

Broadcom offers a competitive and comprehensive benefits package: Medical, dental and vision plans, 401(K) participation including company matching, Employee Stock Purchase Program (ESPP), Employee Assistance Program (EAP), company paid holidays, paid sick leave and vacation time. The company follows all applicable laws for Paid Family Leave and other leaves of absence.

Broadcom is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We will consider qualified applicants without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, citizenship, disability status, medical condition, pregnancy, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law. We will also consider qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records consistent with local law.

If you are located outside USA, please be sure to fill out a home address as this will be used for future correspondence.


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