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Mainframe Software Developer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Mainframe Developer

Davenport, IA · Hybrid

$43.50 - $55.75/hr

Works with other Software Developers, Senior Software Developers and Leadership team to create ... Creates or enhances applications using a mainframe technology stack * Collaborates with other ...

Mainframe Developer

Davenport, IA · On-site

$46.50 - $59.75/hr

Works with other Software Developers, Senior Software Developers and Leadership team to create ... Creates or enhances applications using a mainframe technology stack * Collaborates with other ...

Mainframe Developer

Davenport, IA · On-site +1

$43.50 - $55.75/hr

Works with other Software Developers, Senior Software Developers and Leadership team to create ... Creates or enhances applications using a mainframe technology stack * Collaborates with other ...

Mainframe Developer

Davenport, IA · On-site

$46.50 - $59.75/hr

Our Davenport, IA client has an immediate opening for a talented Mainframe Developer! If you are interested, please send your resume to Dani at dedgington@saigepartners.com. As our client continues ...

Mainframe Developer

Davenport, IA · On-site

$46.50 - $59.75/hr

Our Davenport, IA client has an immediate opening for a talented Mainframe Developer. If you are interested, please send your resume to Dani at dedgington@saigepartners.com As our client continues to ...

Mainframe Developer

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$47.75 - $61.50/hr

Mainframe Developer Location: Des Moines, IA Full-Time Qualifications Additional Information All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

Sr. Mainframe Application Developer

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$47.75 - $61.50/hr

What You'll Do Teradata is looking for a skilled Mainframe Developer to join our Customer Developer Tools (CDT) organization. This role is critical in supporting and evolving our mainframe-based ...

Mainframe Specialist

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$47.75 - $61.50/hr

Mainframe Specialist Duration: 12+ Months Contract Location: Hybrid - Des Moines, IA - 3 Days a week. Note: Need experience with JCL and DB2. • 3+ years' work experience or equivalent experience ...

Mainframe - COBOL

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$48.25 - $62/hr

Expert with Mainframe, SOA services and Mainframe integration. Hands-on experience in TSOISPF, Endevor, File Manager, File Manager IMS utility, File Manager DB2 utility, SDSF, IF, TABLE BASE, Fault ...

Mainframe Developer

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$47.75 - $61.50/hr

Job Title Location: Onsite/Hybrid- West Des Moines, IA - Initial 90 days onsite for training, then Hybrid 3 days onsite/2 days' work from home. Terms: Contract (maybe C2H) Interview Style: 1-2 Rounds ...

Senior Mainframe Developer

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$102K - $148K/yr

Senior Mainframe DeveloperRemote - United StatesJR013826 At Ensono, our Purpose is to be a ... Strong understanding of software development life cycle (SDLC) methodologies. Experience with ...

COBOL Developer

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$49 - $66.25/hr

Experience in reporting/analytics using mainframe tools and processes. * Solid understanding of scalable application design principles and software engineering best practices. * Familiarity with ...

Summary The Lead Software Engineer mainframe and API-driven web technologies to build and support application solutions. Provides lead support for design and development to one or more application ...

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Mainframe Software Developer information

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.
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What job categories do people searching Mainframe Software Developer jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Mainframe Software Developer jobs in Iowa are:
Infographic showing various Mainframe Software Developer job openings in Iowa as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 98% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution.
IA-DHS-SDP5-Mainframe Developer

IA-DHS-SDP5-Mainframe Developer

Software Technology Inc

Des Moines, IA • On-site

$47.75 - $61.50/hr

Other

Posted 7 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Analyze, develop, test, and migrate code for legacy mainframe systems.

  • Trace, extract, and document data system logic, flows, and business rules by reading and analyzing mainframe programs and utilities.

  • Perform on-call duties for nightly and weekend batch cycles.


Job description

Software Developer/Programmer 5 (SDP5) – Mainframe Developer/Programmer/Analyst

DHS is looking for a Software Developer/Programmer (SDP5) – Mainframe Developer/Analyst to analyze/develop/test/migrate code for our legacy mainframe systems (COBOL, JCL, ADSO/IDMS). As knowledge transfer happens and experience with our mainframe systems the position will help transition and build bridges to new non-mainframe systems at the same time helping keep the current legacy systems compliant.

Required Skills:

  • The role is more of a technical analyst/developer.
  • Trace and document data system logic and flows by reading & analyzing JCL, COBOL programs, CICS definitions, ADSO/IDMS programs and 3rd party utility control cards, IDCAMS, SYNCSORT and other common mainframe data manipulation processes.
  • Extracting and documenting Business Rules embedded in Mainframe programs, third party utilities, and other data manipulation products. This includes both business and functional aspects of the business rules.
  • Understanding, analyzing and documenting current Mainframe logic and flows and work with users and business teams to correlate how the systems support the current business, Federal and State requirements.
  • Must complete assigned task; communicate accurate and useful status updates; follow quality standards; Ability to work in a team environment; strong communication skills; both written and spoken.
  • Perform on-call duties for nightly and weekend batch cycles.
  • Attention to details is a must since the documentation generated would be the basis of system rewrites.
  • Very clear, strong and precise Verbal and written communication skills are needed in order to work and coordinate with multiple teams.
  • Prior DHS experience would be a plus.
  • Work independently with little supervision or guidance.
  • Demonstrates a willingness to independently dive in and learn new systems, processes, and business functionality.