1

Mainframe Software Developer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Collaborate closely with Java developers, Mainframe engineers, product managers, and project ... software, data, AI, network, and hybrid cloud infrastructure. These solutions are powered by ...

Collaborate closely with Java developers, Mainframe engineers, product managers, and project ... software, data, AI, network, and hybrid cloud infrastructure. These solutions are powered by ...

Senior Automation Engineer

Des Moines, IA ยท Hybrid

$101K - $133K/yr

Collaborate closely with Java developers, Mainframe engineers, product managers, and project ... software, data, AI, network, and hybrid cloud infrastructure. These solutions are powered by ...

Senior Automation Engineer

Davenport, IA ยท Hybrid

$98K - $129K/yr

Collaborate closely with Java developers, Mainframe engineers, product managers, and project ... software, data, AI, network, and hybrid cloud infrastructure. These solutions are powered by ...

Sr Integration Engineer #REF1801G

Des Moines, IA ยท Hybrid

$101K - $136K/yr

Conduct regular reviews of the DevOps backlog to understand the status of each Delivery Team's work ... Informatica Power Center or IICS Software; Experience building ETL solutions by conducting analysis ...

Sr Integration Engineer #REF1801G

Des Moines, IA ยท Hybrid

$101K - $136K/yr

Conduct regular reviews of the DevOps backlog to understand the status of each Delivery Team's work ... Informatica Power Center or IICS Software; Experience building ETL solutions by conducting analysis ...

Batch Operator

Des Moines, IA

$17.75 - $21.50/hr

We are pre-eminent service providers in the field of staff augmentation, IT Consultancy, Software ... Monitor mainframe jobs - Alert appropriate customers/programmers of potential problems. - Report ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

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.
What are popular job titles related to Mainframe Software Developer jobs in Iowa? For Mainframe Software Developer jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
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.

Infrastructure Engineer II (Hybrid)

Principal Financial Group

Des Moines, IA โ€ข Hybrid

$77K - $127K/yr

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Troubleshoot and problem-solve for applications.

  • Implement automation and build CI/CD pipelines using tooling such as Jenkins and XLR.

  • Support and enhance mainframe applications and integrations.


Job description

What You'll Do

As an Infrastructureย Engineer in IS Mainframe Services space, youโ€™ll work closely with other engineers as we configure, design, implement, and maintain Infrastructure processes for the Enterprise.ย You will learn and help evolve our DevOps practices through automation, continuous improvement, and learning. You will gain hands-on experience on modernization tools such as IDz, Git,ย Digital.ai Releaseย andย IBM DevOps Deploy (UrbanCode Deploy)ย and be part of configuring and implementing the tooling. You will also be part of our efforts around defining and implementing a continuous delivery pipeline. Weโ€™re continually learning in our work as a team to build and maintain scalable infrastructure for our internal and external customers.ย ย  ย ย 

Here are few examples of the kinds of things youโ€™ll do:

  • Trouble-shoot and problem-solve for applications.
  • Gain understanding of both mainframe and distributed batch.
  • Build knowledge of at least one scripting language (Groovy, Python)
  • Implement automation and build CI/CD pipelines using tooling such as Jenkins and XLR.
  • Gain knowledge designing, building, and monitoring mainframe dashboards using ELK stack.
  • Collaborate with experienced engineers, architects, and product teams.
  • Participate in code reviews, debugging, and problem-solving sessions.
  • Work in a team environment that uses pairing and mobbing to accomplish work.

Who You Are

Weโ€™re looking for someone with:

  • Associate or bachelorโ€™s degree (preference in computer science, technology, engineering or math-related field) and 2+ yearsโ€™ work experience or equivalent experience.
  • 2+ years of scripting experience with either python or groovy is required.
  • Development Experience in modern technologies (IT internship experience, community exposure, or professional experience)
  • Strongest candidates will have experience or interest in working with different technologies.

ย Key Skillsets:

  • Knowledge & hands-on on z/OS related tools.
  • Ability to install & customize IBM & third-party software using SMP/E.
  • Build, test, and maintain SDLC and DEVOPS applications, and provide feedback for future roadmaps.
  • Support and enhance mainframe applications and integrations.
  • Use and contribute to mainframe pipeline tools (automation, deployment workflows)
  • Understand the basic concepts of AWS.
  • Must have good understanding of JCL jobs, utilities and ZFS file systems and their concepts.
  • Proficient Coding (in some of these): JCL, REXX, Groovy, Python
  • Exposure to Linux/Unix environments

ย Tools used by the team:

  • OS: Mainframe Z/OS, Windows
  • Languages: Cobol, JCL/MVS, REXX, Groovy, Python, Java
  • Databases: DB2 for z/OS
  • Modernization Tooling such as IDz, GIT,ย IBM DevOps Deploy (UrbanCode Deploy),ย Digital.ai Release, Jenkins,ย VSCode and IBM Dependency Based Build (DBB).
  • Content management and issue tracking: Confluence, Jira

Salary Range Information
Salary ranges below reflect targeted base salaries. Non-sales positions have the opportunity to participate in a bonus program. Sales positions are eligible for sales incentives, and in some instances a bonus plan, whereby total compensation may far exceed base salary depending on individual performance. Actual compensation for all roles will be based upon geographic location, work experience, education, licensure requirements and/or skill level and will be finalized at the time of offer.
Salary Range (Non-Exempt expressed as hourly; Exempt expressed as yearly)
$77000 - $127000 / year
Salary Details

The following locations are examples of market-specific salary ranges across different geographies.

Des Moines, IA

Raleigh, NC

Charlotte, NC

  • $77,000 - $127,000/Year

Time Off Program
Flexible Time Off (FTO) is provided to salaried (exempt) employees and provides the opportunity to take time away from the office with pay for vacation, personal or short-term illness. Employees don't accrue a bank of time off under FTO and there is no set number of days provided.
Pension Eligible
Yes

ย Job level

Weโ€™ll consider talent at the next level with the right experiences and skills.

Work Environments

This role offers in-office, hybrid (blending at least three office days in a typical workweek). Youโ€™ll work with your leader to figure out which option may align best based on several factors.

Work Authorization/Sponsorship

At this time, we're not considering candidates that need any type of immigration sponsorship (additional work authorization or permanent work authorization) now or in the future to work in the United States. This includes, but IS NOT LIMITED TO: F1-OPT, F1-CPT, H-1B, TN, L-1, J-1, etc. For additional information around work authorization needs please use the following links.

Nonimmigrant Workers and Green Card for Employment-Based Immigrants

Investment Code of Ethics

For Principal Global Investors positions, youโ€™ll need to follow an Investment Code of Ethics related to personal and business conduct as well as personal trading activities for you and members of your household. These same requirements may also apply to other positions across the organization.

Experience Principal

While our expertise spans the globe, we're bound by one common purpose: to foster a world where financial security is accessible to all. And our success depends on the unique experiences, backgrounds, and talents of our employees โ€“ individually and all of us together. Explore our core values, benefits and why weโ€™re an exceptional place to grow your career.

Principal is an Equal Opportunity Employer

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.


Posting Window
We will accept applications for 3 full days following the Original Posting Date, after which the posting may remain open or be removed based upon applications received. If we choose to post the job again, we will accept additional applications for at least 1 full day following the Most Recently Posted Date. Please submit applications in a timely manner as there is no guarantee the posting will be available beyond the applicable deadline.
Original Posting Date
6/23/2026
Most Recently Posted Date
6/23/2026
ย 

Principal uses artificial intelligence tools to assist in reviewing and evaluating job applications, fraud prevention, and candidate matching and comparisons. These AI tools support our human recruiters in the initial review process but do not make final hiring decisions without human involvement. By submitting your application, you acknowledge this use of AI in our recruitment process. Please review ourย Workforce (U.S.) Privacy Noticeย for more details on our practices and your data privacy rights.


LinkedIn Hashtag


#LI-EW1Qualifications:

Weโ€™re looking for someone with:

  • Associate or bachelorโ€™s degree (preference in computer science, technology, engineering or math-related field) and 2+ yearsโ€™ work experience or equivalent experience.
  • 2+ years of scripting experience with either python or groovy is required.
  • Development Experience in modern technologies (IT internship experience, community exposure, or professional experience)
  • Strongest candidates will have experience or interest in working with different technologies.

ย Key Skillsets:

  • Knowledge & hands-on on z/OS related tools.
  • Ability to install & customize IBM & third-party software using SMP/E.
  • Build, test, and maintain SDLC and DEVOPS applications, and provide feedback for future roadmaps.
  • Support and enhance mainframe applications and integrations.
  • Use and contribute to mainframe pipeline tools (automation, deployment workflows)
  • Understand the basic concepts of AWS.
  • Must have good understanding of JCL jobs, utilities and ZFS file systems and their concepts.
  • Proficient Coding (in some of these): JCL, REXX, Groovy, Python
  • Exposure to Linux/Unix environments

ย Tools used by the team:

  • OS: Mainframe Z/OS, Windows
  • Languages: Cobol, JCL/MVS, REXX, Groovy, Python, Java
  • Databases: DB2 for z/OS
  • Modernization Tooling such as IDz, GIT,ย IBM DevOps Deploy (UrbanCode Deploy),ย Digital.ai Release, Jenkins,ย VSCode and IBM Dependency Based Build (DBB).
  • Content management and issue tracking: Confluence, Jira
Education:UNAVAILABLEEmployment Type: FULL_TIME