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Mainframe Software Developer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Yochana

Mainframe Developer

Jersey City, NJ · On-site

$51.25 - $65.75/hr

Manage the full software development lifecycle of mainframe projects from requirements gathering to ... Proficiency in mainframe cobol programming language. * Strong knowledge of mainframe db2, vsam, and ...

NAVA Software Solutions

Mainframe Engineer

Somerset, NJ · On-site

$49.25 - $63.25/hr

NAVA Software solutions is looking for a Mainframe Engineer Details: Mainframe Engineer Location: Somerset, NJ - Remote to start Duration: 6 months CTH What You Will Do: * Legacy application ...

Keylent Inc

Z/OS Mainframe Systems Programmer

Gwynn Oak, MD · On-site

$57.25 - $73/hr

Z/OS Mainframe Systems Programmer Location: Woodlawn, MD Duration: Long Term Education / Experience ... Designs extensions and enhancements to mainframe operating systems software to support current ...

Hired By Matrix

Mainframe Engineer

Livingston, NJ · On-site

$53.50 - $68.75/hr

Company Description This position is a critical member of the Mainframe Engineering team. The ... Initiate z/OS environmental set-up to support all Mainframe software products. * Provide technical ...

Engineering Square

Mainframe Utilities Developer

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$48.75 - $62.50/hr

Mainframe Utilities Developer: The Role: We are seeking an experienced Mainframe Utilities ... Key Responsibilities: · Vendor software Tool Administrator for: BMC DevX Code Pipeline/ISPW, BMC ...

New

Syntricate Technologies

Mainframe Developer

$50.25 - $64.50/hr

Hi, We are looking for a Mainframe Developer. Please let me know, if interested. Position Title ... software Strong understanding of Agile methodologies with ability to work in at least one of the ...

Bitco Corporation

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 ...

BITCO Insurance Companies

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 ...

Inteletech Global, Inc.

Data Developer (Mainframe)

Malvern, PA · On-site

$48 - $61.75/hr

Data Developer (Mainframe) Location: Malvern, PA (Hybrid and Local candidates required) Visa: GC ... software solutions Ensuring software applications meet all performance and security requirements ...

Systemtec

Mainframe Developer

Columbia, SC · On-site

$40 - $51.50/hr

Mainframe Developer SYSTEMTEC is seeking a Mainframe Developer for a hybrid opportunity for ... Familiarity with enterprise software development methodologies and best practices. * Ability to ...

Hired By Matrix

Mainframe Engineer

Livingston, NJ

$53.50 - $68.75/hr

This position is a critical member of the Mainframe Engineering team. The primary function is ... Initiate z/OS environmental set-up to support all Mainframe software products. * Provide technical ...

Forhyre

Unisys Mainframe Developer

Phoenix, AZ

$48.75 - $62.50/hr

We are looking for a Senior Mainframes Developer to work on mainframe software application development. In a dynamic, fast paced environment the IBM zTPF operating system is the central hub for all ...

Apply Early

Forhyre

Unisys Mainframe Developer

Dallas, TX · On-site

$48.50 - $62.25/hr

We are looking for a Senior Mainframes Developer to work on mainframe software application development. In a dynamic, fast paced environment the IBM zTPF operating system is the central hub for all ...

Apply Early

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Mainframe Software Developer information

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How much do mainframe software developer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for mainframe software developer in the United States is $53.38, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47.12 and $60.58 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.
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Mainframe Software Developer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Mainframe Software Developer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 99% Full Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $111,026 per year, or $53.4 per hour.

Mainframe Software Developer - Intermediate

MSR Technology Group

Fort Worth, TX • On-site

$47 - $60.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 27 days ago

Job description

Job Responsibilities:
• Modify existing application code or interfaces or build new application components from detailed requirements.
• Analysis of requirements, support of the design, development of the code, testing, debugging, deployment, and maintenance of those programs and interfaces. Documentation of the work is essential
• Participation in most aspects of programming and application development, including file design, update, storage, and retrieval
• Ability to maintain the developed solution on an on-going basis is essential
• Formulate concepts, define system scope and technical objectives based on user needs (requires very good written and verbal communication skills, ability to easily grasp business concepts, and possesses skills to build a vision)
• Enhance processes to resolve operational problems and add new functions taking into consideration schedule, resource constraints, process complexity, dependencies, assumptions and application structure
• Candidate is required to follow the existing development methodology and coding standards, and ensure compliance with the internal and external regulatory requirements
• May guide various groups on application systems activities
• Work under general directions; typically reports to a team lead or supervisor/manager