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Mainframe Software Developer Jobs in Baltimore, MD

Senior Mainframe Developer

Annapolis, MD · 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 ...

Senior .NET Developer (Onsite)

Columbia, MD · On-site

$53.75 - $70.75/hr

Experience supporting Mainframe modernization, automated code conversion, and enterprise ... NET engineering standards and architecture principles * Develop RESTful APIs, gRPC services ...

Sr. ALC Developer (hybrid)

Lanham, MD · On-site +1

$54.50 - $71.75/hr

The role requires deep expertise in IBM mainframe assembly programming, AEV JCL, and the full IBM mainframe toolchain, and the ability to work within IRS's rigorous production control processes (PECP ...

Sr. ALC Developer (hybrid)

Lanham, MD · On-site

$54.50 - $71.75/hr

The role requires deep expertise in IBM mainframe assembly programming, AEV JCL, and the full IBM mainframe toolchain, and the ability to work within IRS's rigorous production control processes (PECP ...

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Mainframe Software Developer information

See Baltimore, MD salary details

$10

$53

$71

How much do mainframe software developer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for mainframe software developer in Baltimore, MD is $53.04, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46.83 and $60.19 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a mainframe developer do?

A mainframe developer designs, codes, tests, and maintains software applications that run on large mainframe computers. They often work with languages like COBOL, PL/I, or Assembler and use tools such as IBM Z/OS. Their role involves ensuring the reliability, security, and efficiency of critical enterprise systems.

Is mainframe developer a good career?

Mainframe software developers work with legacy systems that are still critical in many industries such as finance and government. The role offers stable employment, competitive salaries, and opportunities to develop expertise in languages like COBOL and tools like JCL. However, the field is specialized, and ongoing learning of mainframe technologies and certifications can enhance career prospects.

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.

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 testing, it is unlikely to fully replace mainframe systems or the developers who maintain them, as mainframes continue to support critical enterprise operations. Instead, AI tools are often integrated to enhance efficiency and modernize existing mainframe workflows.

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.
What are popular job titles related to Mainframe Software Developer jobs in Baltimore, MD? For Mainframe Software Developer jobs in Baltimore, MD, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Mainframe Software Developer jobs in Baltimore, MD look for? The top searched job categories for Mainframe Software Developer jobs in Baltimore, MD are:
What cities near Baltimore, MD are hiring for Mainframe Software Developer jobs? Cities near Baltimore, MD with the most Mainframe Software Developer job openings:
Infographic showing various Mainframe Software Developer job openings in Baltimore, MD as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, and 25% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $110,320 per year, or $53 per hour.
Mainframe Modernization Solutions Architect

Mainframe Modernization Solutions Architect

Rocket Software

Annapolis, MD • On-site

$154K - $194K/yr

Other

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

It's fun to work in a company where people truly BELIEVE in what they're doing!

Job Description Summary:

We are looking for a highly skilled Mainframe Modernization Solutions Architect to analyze, design, architect, and implement solutions that support our Customers’ Digital Transformation journeys. In this hands-on role, you will be responsible for solving complex technical issues, establishing patterns and practices, and setting standards for the modernization of mainframe legacy environments. The ideal candidate will possess deep technical skill in at least one of the following focus areas:

• Infrastructure modernization: Deploy fit for purpose workload in a Hybrid Cloud infrastructure

• Application modernization: Evolve from monolithic application to Cloud-Native API

• Microservices Process modernization: Embrace an enterprise-wide DevOps discipline to deliver application faster

Key Responsibilities:

  • Helping Customers and Systems Integrators to design scalable, high availability application solutions built on the Rocket Enterprise Portfolio/Enterprise Server solution.

  • Working as a technical leader alongside customer business, development and infrastructure teams.

  • Create Conduct proof of concept technology analysis and pilots.

  • Conduct customer presentations and internal presentations/trainings to peer groups.

  • Enable and align consulting partners with Rocket Enterprise Portfolio (Enterprise Server/Enterprise Developer/Enterprise Analyzer) mainframe modernization approach and methodology.

  • Provide the architectural guidance and recommendations necessary to promote successful Customer engagements worldwide.

  • Technical content composition and delivery: blogs, whitepapers, technical presentations at major conferences.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Advanced Technical Degree in Computer Science or related field

  • At least 4 to 10 years of experience leading customers with mainframe and legacy modernization initiatives.

  • Experience leading customers with mainframe and legacy modernization initiatives.

  • Knowledge of major Cloud Provider infrastructure and technologies, such as AWS, Azure, GCP, Cloud Foundry, Docker / Kubernetes.

  • Experience with analyzing on-premises mainframe environment applications and process to formulate plans for modernizing workloads that achieve Customer’s desired business outcomes.

  • Relevant Business and IT Architecture Certifications such as, AWS Solution Architect Professional, Microsoft AZURE Solution Architect, Scaled Agile Framework (SAFe), etc.

  • Fluent in written and verbal English.

  • Prior Experience in leading Customer migrations from Mainframe to Rocket Enterprise Server platform Technical Experience in at least one of these areas:

  • Infrastructure Modernization

  • Experience with tools and methodologies used to migrate mainframe workloads via hardware/middleware emulation, automated code conversion, and re-platforming.

  • Experience with COBOL modernization and porting application code across platforms.

  • Hands-on technical experience with mainframe, non-x86 legacy systems and with technologies such as COBOL, JCL, CICS, DB2 for z/OS, IMS DB/DC, Assembler, PL/I, REXX, flat/sequential files, GDGs, and VSAM.

  • Must have an analytical mind set to analyze test result and facilitate defect resolution.

  • Experience design/architecting distributed and Cloud environments (target environments) – including OpenShift, Kubernetes, and Containers.

  • Application Modernization

  • Strong analysis skills with solid concepts in Architecture and Design. Should have joined projects to refactor complex business applications.

  • Knowledge of Cloud Computing, Containers, Microservices, and Serverless technology.

  • Experience with Business Rules-extraction from COBOL/PL1.

  • Experience architecting high availability, resilient, fault tolerant systems that utilize load balancing, horizontal/vertical scaling.

  • Knowledge of Webservices, Microservices, APIs and exposing Application components to alternate platforms.

  • Process Modernization

  • Complete understanding of software development lifecycle including DevOps toolchains.

  • Experience configuring automation pipelines in GitHub, Azure DevOps, AWS CodePipeline, Jenkins or similar tools.

  • Familiarity with agile engineering practices like Test Automation, Test-Driven Development (TDD), Continuous Integration (CI), Continuous Delivery (CD), DevOps, and Test Data Management, etc.

  • Experience with implementing and operating DevOps and Agile tools/platforms across some part of the development lifecycle.

  • Ability and interest in travel to our customers around the world, as needed.

  • Commitment to Rocket Core values of empathy, humanity, trust and love.

​#LI-Remote

The base salary range for this role is $154,575.00 - $194,650.00 /year. Exact compensation may vary based on skills, experience, and location.

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What Rocket Software can offer you in USA:

Unlimited Vacation Time as well as paid holidays and sick time

Health and Wellness coverage options for Rocketeers and dependents

Life and disability coverage

Fidelity 401(k) and Roth Retirement Savings with matching contributions

Monthly student debt benefit program

Tuition Reimbursement and Certificate Reimbursement Program opportunities

Leadership and skills training opportunities

EOE M/F/Vet/Disability. Rocket Software Inc. is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status. Rocket Software Inc. is also committed to compliance with all fair employment practices regarding citizenship and immigration status.

Rocket is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodation to individuals with physical and mental disabilities. If you need special assistance or an accommodation while seeking employment, please call: 781-577-4321 or send an email to people@rocketsoftware.com. We will make a determination on your request for reasonable accommodation on a case-by-case basis.

As part of our commitment to a safe and trustworthy workplace, we include background and reference checks in our hiring process.

It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

If you like wild growth and working with happy, enthusiastic over-achievers, you'll enjoy your career with us!

Companies around the world trust Rocket to solve their most complex business challenges by powering their critical infrastructure, business processes, and data. We help extend the value of these assets, enabling our customers to embrace the potential of cloud and mobile computing, advanced analytics, and the innovations of tomorrow. From the clothes we wear to the cars we drive, Rocket solutions power the back-end systems that thousands of brands rely on every day.

At Rocket, software is about more than just code—it’s about people. We are passionate problem-solvers, working to make a difference for others. Our foundation is built on empathy, humanity, trust, and love, and we strive to embody these core values in everything we do. Whether we’re serving our customers, partners, or fellow Rocketeers, we are committed to treating everyone with the respect and care they deserve.

Founded in 1990, Rocket Software is headquartered in Waltham, Massachusetts, and has 20 offices worldwide, bringing people and technology together to build a better future.


Rocket Software logo

About Rocket Software

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Thousands of companies around the world depend on Rocket to solve their most challenging business problems by helping them run their critical infrastructure, business processes, and data, as well as extending the value of these assets to take advantage of cloud and mobile computing, advanced analytics, and other future innovations. From the clothes we wear to the cars we drive, Rocket solutions power the back-end systems that thousands of brands interact with every day. At Rocket, software has always been about people--not just ones and zeroes. We're people solving problems for other people, and we strive to treat our customers, partners, and fellow Rocketeers with humanity.

Industry

It services

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Waltham, MA, US

Year founded

1990

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