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Mainframe Software Developer Jobs in Indianapolis, IN

CSCI Consulting

Cobol/IDMS Developer

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

$48 - $65/hr

Bachelor's degree in computer science, software engineering or relevant field required * 5 years' experience in Mainframe IDMS and COBOL * Creativity and adaptability in problem-solving * Ability to ...

A.C. Coy

Cobol/IDMS Developer (Remote)

Indianapolis, IN · Remote

$48 - $65/hr

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related field. * 4+ years of IBM z/OS-based mainframe experience using COBOL, CICS, JCL, TSO, ISPF, Endevor, and REXX. * Strong ...

A.C. Coy

Cobol/IDMS Developer (Remote)

Indianapolis, IN · On-site +1

$48 - $65/hr

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related field. * 4+ years of IBM z/OS-based mainframe experience using COBOL, CICS, JCL, TSO, ISPF, Endevor, and REXX. * Strong ...

A.C. Coy

Cobol/IDMS Developer (Remote)

Indianapolis, IN · Remote

$48 - $65/hr

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related field. * 4+ years of IBM z/OS-based mainframe experience using COBOL, CICS, JCL, TSO, ISPF, Endevor, and REXX. * Strong ...

A.C. Coy

Cobol/IDMS Developer (Remote)

Indianapolis, IN · Remote

$48 - $65/hr

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related field required. * 8+ years of IBM z/OS-based mainframe experience using COBOL, JCL, TSO, ISPF, Endevor, and REXX. * Expertise ...

A.C. Coy

Cobol/IDMS Developer (Remote)

Indianapolis, IN · On-site +1

$48 - $65/hr

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related field required. * 8+ years of IBM z/OS-based mainframe experience using COBOL, JCL, TSO, ISPF, Endevor, and REXX. * Expertise ...

A.C. Coy

Cobol/IDMS Developer (Remote)

Indianapolis, IN · Remote

$48 - $65/hr

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related field required. * 8+ years of IBM z/OS-based mainframe experience using COBOL, JCL, TSO, ISPF, Endevor, and REXX. * Expertise ...

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All JobsMainframe Software Developer JobsMainframe Software Developer Jobs in Indianapolis, IN

Mainframe Software Developer information

See Indianapolis, IN salary details

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$51

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How much do mainframe software developer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for mainframe software developer in Indianapolis, IN is $51.02, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45.05 and $57.88 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 job categories do people searching Mainframe Software Developer jobs in Indianapolis, IN look for? The top searched job categories for Mainframe Software Developer jobs in Indianapolis, IN are:
Mainframe Software Developer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Mainframe Software Developer job openings in Indianapolis, IN as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $106,126 per year, or $51 per hour.
Lead Mainframe Developer

Lead Mainframe Developer

PROLIM Global Corporation

Indianapolis, IN • On-site

$46.75 - $60.25/hr

Contractor

Posted yesterday

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Job description

Lead Mainframe Developer
Location: Indianapolis, IN / Plano, TX / Boston, MA / Portsmouth, NH/ Seattle, WA - onsite
Duration: 6 months Contract
JD:
Mainframe Application Developer with Strong experience in IBM mainframes, Cobol, IMS DB, DB2, JCL, MQ series & Xpeditor, minimum with 5 to 8 years of experience, No production support profiles.
- Design, Code, test and maintain applications
- Assist Quality Assurance teams in testing applications
- Peer review code and technical documents for other team members
- Participate in On-call rotation to resolve applications failures
- Assist in research and issue resolution for processing of business data
- Monitor and trouble-shoot system performance, resolve issues (on-call issues, performance issues, etc.) and coordinate with respective support teams to resolve software and hardware issues.
- IBM mainframes, Cobol, IMS DB, DB2, JCL, MQ series & Xpeditor
- Self-starter with exceptional initiative.
- Willing to go after work to stretch skill breadth/depth and support team.
- Goes after (pulls) opportunities rather than sitting back waiting for push.
- Strong testing experience (unit, integration, contract)
- Strong communication skills.
- Willing to ask questions; offer recommendations; participate/lead in virtual environment
- Demonstrated quick learner
- Should have good working knowledge of Spring Boot and Git

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