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Mainframe Software Developer Jobs in Baltimore, MD

Senior Software Test Engineer

Lanham, MD · Hybrid

$110K - $143K/yr

Responsibilities Peraton is seeking a Senior Software Test Engineer to join our team of qualified ... Conduct functional and/or integration testing of multiple programs in an IBM mainframe, client ...

New

Senior Software Test Engineer

Lanham, MD · Hybrid

$110K - $143K/yr

Responsibilities Peraton is seeking a Senior Software Test Engineer to join our team of qualified ... Conduct functional and/or integration testing of multiple programs in an IBM mainframe, client ...

New

Senior Software Test Engineer

Lanham, MD · On-site

$80K - $128K/yr

Responsibilities Peraton is seeking a Senior Software Test Engineer to join our team of qualified ... Conduct functional and/or integration testing of multiple programs in an IBM mainframe, client ...

New

Responsibilities Peraton is seeking a Mid-Level Software Test Engineer to join our team of ... Conduct functional and/or integration testing of multiple programs in an IBM mainframe, client ...

New

Responsibilities Peraton is seeking a Mid-Level Software Test Engineer to join our team of ... Conduct functional and/or integration testing of multiple programs in an IBM mainframe, client ...

New

Mid-Level Software Test Engineer

Lanham, MD · On-site

$66K - $106K/yr

Responsibilities Peraton is seeking a Mid-Level Software Test Engineer to join our team of ... Conduct functional and/or integration testing of multiple programs in an IBM mainframe, client ...

New

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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 22, 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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $110,320 per year, or $53 per hour.
Mainframe Project Manager with Security Clearance

Mainframe Project Manager with Security Clearance

Koniag Government Services

Baltimore, MD • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 19 days ago


Job description

Tuknik Government Services, LLC, a Koniag Government Services company, is seeking a Mainframe Project Manager to support TGS and our government customer in Baltimore, MD. We offer competitive compensation and an extraordinary benefits package including health, dental and vision insurance, 401K with company matching, flexible spending accounts, paid holidays, three weeks paid time off, and more. The objective of this task is to provide Data Transmission, End User, and Programming support to the Federal Office of Child Support applications housed at SSA. SSA is responsible for the application and network environment in which OCSS workloads are processed. OCSS is responsible for application programming, data transmission, and security access for OCSS applications. Essential Functions, Responsibilities & Duties may include, but are not limited to: * Agile Methodologies is highly preferred * Leadership or project management required * Budgets, estimates, workflows, technical team leadership and proof of successful deliverables of high quality timed products for key initiatives * Ability to work in fast paced environments with timed email/Microsoft responses and keep up with shifting priorities * Self-starter with initiatives to see connections in troubleshooting and project resolutions * Experience in specification documentation with knowledge of software/hardware for IT * Ability to work within organizational structures and motivate team to fulfill business standards and their functional requirements * Ability to work with technical strategies on various IT platforms alone and with other teams * Effective in working with developers and business partners * Software languages such as JCL/SQL (at least one programming language experience is required * Ability to recognize and work thru daily scrum activities * Possess a collaborative and cooperative skill set * Ability to assist in IT emergencies such as breaches, file transfers, possess the organizational skills to assist in emergencies in IT * Possess a documentation skillset including experience in creating and maintaining * documentation of IT products * Experience in software migrations and assist in development of cloud migration plans (from mainframe) * Ability to make business decisions concerning project management outcomes * Microsoft Excel is mandatory, other Microsoft office tools preferred * Ability to work through processes with stakeholders * Ability to lead an IT team in application/software troubleshooting and preventive measures * Ability to work with external partners with patience * DB2/JCL/COBOL/VSAM/SFTP/GDG's and other mainframe skills preferred * TSO required * Sql Server, My SQL API Agile training and any other software experience preferred * Scrum leadership or scrum involvement with sprint planning required * JIRA experience preferred * Ability to retain complex notes/files in documents, OneNote , email organization or other artifact organization tool * Ability to maintain good liaison with business partners including higher-ups Work Experience, Knowledge, Skills & Abilities: Functional Responsibilities: * Experience with PCs running the most current Windows platform, experience with MS Office suite of programs, and computer operations experience in a mainframe operating systems software environment utilizing IBM Time Sharing Option (TSO) and IBM Interactive System Productivity Suite (ISPF). * Experience is needed with some or all the following software packages: Unix, Linux, Windows, and Mainframe Operating Systems, JES3,DFSMS, TSO, Top Secret, CICS, DB2, Ops/MVS, HSC, Netview, Connect:Direct, Managed File Transfer, WebServices, TCP/IP, SNA, and data transfer products. * Must be detailed oriented, possess outstanding organizational skills, and ability to manage task simultaneously * Demonstrate exemplary communication skills, both verbal and written Education/Experience: * Bachelors from an accredited college or university in Engineering, Computer Information Systems, Business or related discipline * At least 5 years of experience in providing related IT project management support Security Requirement: * Must be ability to obtain a client sponsored HSPD-12 Suitability Our Equal Employment Opportunity Policy The company is an equal opportunity employer. The company shall not discriminate against any employee or applicant because of race, color, religion, creed, ethnicity, sex, sexual orientation, gender or gender identity (except where gender is a bona fide occupational qualification), national origin or ancestry, age, disability, citizenship, military/veteran status, marital status, genetic information or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. We are committed to equal employment opportunity in all decisions related to employment, promotion, wages, benefits, and all other privileges, terms, and conditions of employment. The company is dedicated to seeking all qualified applicants. If you require an accommodation to navigate or apply for a position on our website, please get in touch with Heaven Wood via e-mail at or by calling 703-488-9377 to request accommodations. Koniag Government Services (KGS) is an Alaska Native Owned corporation supporting the values and traditions of our native communities through an agile employee and corporate culture that delivers Enterprise Solutions, Professional Services and Operational Management to Federal Government Agencies. As a wholly owned subsidiary of Koniag, we apply our proven commercial solutions to a deep knowledge of Defense and Civilian missions to provide forward leaning technical, professional, and operational solutions. KGS enables successful mission outcomes for our customers through solution-oriented business partnerships and a commitment to exceptional service delivery. We ensure long-term success with a continuous improvement approach while balancing the collective interests of our customers, employees, and native communities. For more information, please visit www.koniag-gs.com. Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled. Shareholder Preference in accordance with Public Law 88-352