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Mainframe System Programmer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Meridian Technologies

Mainframe System Programmer

Columbia, SC · On-site

$45 - $57.25/hr

Mainframe Systems Programmer Location: Onsite - Columbia, SC Contract duration: 12 Month contract with potential for extension or conversion Job Summary We are seeking an experienced IBM MQ Systems ...

Diverse Lynx

IMS Mainframe System Programmer

$56.25 - $71.75/hr

IMS Mainframe System Programmer Top skills: 1. IMS Mainframe System Programmer (Expertise in IMS V15.5 or later upgrade) 2. ISV administration for IMS Database products 3. IMS database Administration ...

InterSources

Mainframe System Programmer

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$60.75 - $77.25/hr

Mainframe System Programmer Location: NYC NY On-site/Remote/Hybrid: REMOTE Duration: 24 Months (Part-Time) Required Skills We are seeking a highly skilled, self-motivated professional with extensive ...

Yantran LLC

IMS Mainframe System Programmer

Dallas, TX · On-site

$54.75 - $69.50/hr

IMS Mainframe System Programmer Location: Dallas, TX Responsibilities: * Experience working within an IMS Database environment. * Familiarity with mainframe functional areas such as z/OS Operating ...

Yantran LLC

zOS & ISVs Mainframe System Programmer

Addison, TX · On-site

$53.25 - $67.75/hr

Title: zOS ISVs Mainframe System Programmer Location: Dallas, TX- 1 Day Responsibilities: Perform standard system programming activities like configuration, installation maintenance using SMP/E, and ...

United IT

Mainframe Automation System Programmer

Plano, TX · On-site

$52.75 - $67.25/hr

Mainframe Automation System Programmer Location: Plano, TX - Onsite Skill: IT IS_AMS_Mainframe_System Software_Administration The Automation System Programmer is responsible for designing ...

Maintec Technologies

Mainframe System Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site

$62.75 - $79.75/hr

Mainframe System Engineer * Location-Seattle, Washington (Initial Remote) * Position type: C2H * Rate: Open The Senior Mainframe System Engineer supports the mainframe infrastructure focusing on z/OS ...

CREATIVE GLOBAL CONSULTING

Mainframe z/OS System Programmer

$56.25 - $71.75/hr

Mainframe z/OS System Programmer Client: IBM POP: 12+ months Location: Remote US Citizen REQUIRED SKILLS * 10+ years of experience installing, customizing, and maintaining z/OS operating system * 5+ ...

Keylent Inc

Mainframe z/OS Systems Programmer

$56.25 - $71.75/hr

Mainframe z/OS Systems Programmer Install, configure, and maintain mainframe operating systems ... Monitor system performance and capacity, proactively identifying and resolving issues to maintain ...

ClifyX

Mainframe Automation System Programmer

Plano, TX · On-site

$52.75 - $67.25/hr

Required Qualifications: * 5+ years in Mainframe System Programming with strong focus on automation. * Proficiency in Rexx, CLIST, JCL, and experience with IBM Workload Scheduler automation.

Idealforce

Mainframe Systems Programmer(34394)

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$54.50 - $69.50/hr

Mainframe Systems Programmer IDEALFORCE has a contract position available immediately for a ... A detailed knowledge of the z/OS operating system with hands on experience with the latest z/OS ...

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Mainframe System Programmer information

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How much do mainframe system programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for mainframe system programmer in the United States is $58.18, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52.88 and $67.31 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Mainframe System Programmer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Mainframe System Programmer, you need deep knowledge of mainframe operating systems (such as z/OS), programming languages like COBOL or Assembler, and a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with mainframe tools (e.g., IBM ISPF, JCL, SMP/E) and certifications such as IBM Certified System Programmer are typically required. Analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for diagnosing issues and collaborating with IT teams. These skills are vital to ensure the stability, security, and efficiency of critical enterprise computing environments.

What are some common challenges Mainframe System Programmers face when supporting legacy systems?

Mainframe System Programmers often encounter challenges such as integrating modern applications with legacy mainframe environments, ensuring system security while maintaining uptime, and troubleshooting complex issues that span both old and new technologies. They may also face difficulties due to limited documentation or retiring expertise as experienced colleagues leave the workforce. Staying current with evolving mainframe tools and best practices helps address these challenges and keeps systems running smoothly.

Are mainframe jobs in demand?

Mainframe system programmer roles are in steady demand due to the continued reliance of large organizations on mainframe systems for critical operations. These jobs require expertise in COBOL, JCL, and mainframe environments, and professionals with skills in modernization and automation are increasingly sought after. The demand remains stable as many enterprises maintain legacy systems alongside newer technologies.

Is mainframe difficult to learn?

Mainframe system programming can be complex due to its specialized environment, programming languages like COBOL and Assembler, and unique operational procedures. However, with proper training and experience, it is learnable, especially for those with a background in computer science or IT. Consistent practice and understanding of mainframe tools and concepts are essential for proficiency.

What is the difference between Mainframe System Programmer vs Mainframe Application Developer?

AspectMainframe System ProgrammerMainframe Application Developer
Required CredentialsCertifications in mainframe systems, such as IBM Certified System ProgrammerProgramming certifications, often in COBOL, Java, or other languages
Work EnvironmentOperate primarily on mainframe hardware, focus on system setup and maintenanceDevelop and modify applications running on mainframes
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by organizations with large-scale legacy systems, banking, insuranceDevelops business applications for mainframe environments in similar industries

While both roles work within mainframe environments, Mainframe System Programmers focus on system setup, maintenance, and optimization, whereas Mainframe Application Developers concentrate on creating and updating applications that run on mainframes. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

What are mainframe system programmers?

Mainframe system programmers are IT professionals who specialize in installing, configuring, maintaining, and optimizing mainframe computer systems. They are responsible for the underlying software infrastructure, such as operating systems (like IBM z/OS), network configurations, and middleware. Their work ensures that mainframe environments run efficiently, securely, and with minimal downtime, supporting critical applications for large organizations. System programmers also troubleshoot complex issues and implement updates or enhancements as needed.

How much does IBM mainframe pay?

Mainframe system programmers typically earn between $70,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Senior roles or those with specialized skills in IBM z/OS or related tools can earn higher salaries, especially in large enterprise environments.

What does a mainframe system programmer do?

A mainframe system programmer is responsible for installing, maintaining, and troubleshooting mainframe operating systems and related software. They configure hardware, optimize system performance, and ensure system security, often using tools like z/OS and JCL. Strong knowledge of system architecture, scripting, and problem-solving skills are essential for this role.
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Mainframe System Programmer jobs near you

Mainframe System Programmer

Kanak Elite Services Inc

New York, NY • On-site

$60.25 - $76.50/hr

Contractor

Posted 6 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Own the mainframe automation strategy and roadmap to improve reliability, detection, and recovery.

  • Architect and govern multi-site failover automation, maintain and test disaster recovery playbooks and runbooks.

  • Collaborate on performance tuning, capacity planning, and cost efficiency for mainframe systems.

Job description

Job Title: Mainframe System Programmer

Location: New York City, NY (Hybrid – 3x/week in the office)

Independent Candidate

*Local to NY only

*Looking for Mainframe System Programmer not a mainframe developer

* Automation and leadership experience is no longer mandatory. So, Mainframe system programmer only

Job Description:

Impact

  1. Own the mainframe automation strategy and roadmap to improve reliability, detection, and recovery.
  2. Client is looking for someone who is having 10+ years of experience in Mainframe System programmer.
  3. Scale automated solutions across infrastructure domains (batch, storage, networking, middleware) using APIs, orchestration, and infrastructure-as-code.
  4. Architect and govern multi-site failover automation; maintain and test DR playbooks and runbooks.
  5. Define and operationalize SLOs/SLIs, error budgets, and alerting standards; reduce MTTA/MTTR through event correlation and automated remediation.
  6. Instill disciplined engineering: peer reviews, version control, change management gates, and automation standards aligned to risk/compliance.
  7. Build and lead a high-performing team; develop talent in REXX, z/OS automation, DevOps, and integration.
  8. Partner across platforms, applications, cyber, risk, and compliance to prioritize automation investments that reduce toil and operational risk.
  9. Own KPIs and continuous improvement cycles; communicate performance, risks, and outcomes to senior stakeholders.

Responsibilities

  1. Technical leadership and hands-on guidance in:
    1. Mainframe automation frameworks and system state management
    2. Expert-level REXX scripting; deep z/OS operating environment expertise
    3. Designing/supporting automated failover in multi-site environments
    4. RESTful APIs and systems integration for orchestration
    5. DevOps tooling (e.g., Jenkins including Zowe plug-in, Ansible) and CI/CD for mainframe workloads
    6. ServiceNow ITSM workflows and automation
    7. AIOps/event-management platforms (e.g., Moogsoft or equivalent)
    8. SQL, JCL, ISPF/TSO and related toolchains
  1. Governance, risk, and controls:
    1. Strong change control discipline (Git, peer reviews, deployment safeguards)
    2. High-quality documentation: runbooks, process/architecture standards
    3. Alignment with audit and compliance requirements
  1. Stakeholder and vendor management:
    1. Partner with infrastructure leaders and vendors; drive outcomes via SLAs and measurable KPIs
    2. Translate functional requirements into automation workflows; steward solution documentation and training
  1. Operations ownership:
    1. Troubleshoot and drive root-cause fixes; prepare detailed problem reports
    2. Resilience/DR: hands-on experience with GDPS and Safeguarded Copy
    3. Collaborate on performance tuning, capacity planning, and cost efficiency

Leadership Expectations

  1. Lead engineers/SREs with clear objectives, coaching, and succession planning; foster documentation and knowledge sharing.
  2. Shape automation standards across TSG; align priorities to business outcomes and risk posture.
  3. Present strategy, results, and risks to senior technology leadership; influence cross-platform adoption.
  4. Practice financial stewardship for tooling, licensing, and infrastructure; identify savings via automation and improved change success rates.
  5. Model BNY's Principles: Be Client Obsessed, Spark Progress, Own It, Stay Curious, Thrive Together.

Qualifications

  1. Extensive experience leading mainframe automation in large, multi-site enterprises
  2. Expert REXX and deep z/OS knowledge with a track record of robust automation delivery
  3. Demonstrated success implementing resilience/DR automation (GDPS, Safeguarded Copy)
  4. Proficiency with DevOps tooling (Jenkins incl. Zowe plug-in, Ansible) and REST API integrations
  5. ServiceNow ITSM automation; familiarity with AIOps/event correlation platforms
  6. Strong SQL, JCL, ISPF/TSO; ability to mentor across these domains
  7. Proven change management discipline (Git, peer reviews) and excellence in documentation/runbooks
  8. Exceptional communication skills for complex topics, training, and stakeholder engagement
  9. Experience owning KPIs, quarterly improvement cycles, and executive-level reporting.
     

    Thanks & Regards,

    Recruitment Manager

    Ravi Pratap

    Email : Recruiters@kanakits.com

    Kanak IT Services LLC.|| Hamilton Square, NJ 08690

    Website : www.kanakits.com