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Mainframe System Programmer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Senior Mainframe COBOL Developer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$52.75 - $68/hr

We are Seeking a Senior Mainframe COBOL Developer with a strong background in enterprise financial systems. The ideal candidate will support mission-critical mainframe applications, troubleshoot ...

Mainframe Developer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$100K - $110K/yr

Perform system analysis, troubleshooting, and debugging of mainframe environments * Collaborate with cross-functional teams to support business and technical requirements * Monitor mainframe ...

Mainframe Specialist

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$70K - $196K/yr

Evaluate legacy systems and propose actionable modernization strategies-covering rehosting ... Partner with cross-functional teams-architects, developers, QA, and business analysts-to gather ...

Mainframe Specialist

San Diego, CA · On-site

$70K - $196K/yr

Evaluate legacy systems and propose actionable modernization strategies-covering rehosting ... Partner with cross-functional teams-architects, developers, QA, and business analysts-to gather ...

Be Seen First

The Mainframe Systems Programmer/DBA for Legacy Systems manages different types of databases, such as hierarchical (IMS), relational (DB2), and file-based (ADABAS), and is responsible for planning ...

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Mainframe Specialist

Mountain View, CA · On-site

$70K - $196K/yr

Evaluate legacy systems and propose actionable modernization strategies-covering rehosting ... Partner with cross-functional teams-architects, developers, QA, and business analysts-to gather ...

Mainframe Specialist

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$70K - $196K/yr

Evaluate legacy systems and propose actionable modernization strategies-covering rehosting ... Partner with cross-functional teams-architects, developers, QA, and business analysts-to gather ...

Mainframe Specialist

Walnut Creek, CA · On-site

$70K - $196K/yr

Evaluate legacy systems and propose actionable modernization strategies-covering rehosting ... Partner with cross-functional teams-architects, developers, QA, and business analysts-to gather ...

Mainframe Specialist

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$70K - $196K/yr

Evaluate legacy systems and propose actionable modernization strategies-covering rehosting ... Partner with cross-functional teams-architects, developers, QA, and business analysts-to gather ...

Mainframe Specialist

Irvine, CA · On-site

$70K - $196K/yr

Evaluate legacy systems and propose actionable modernization strategies-covering rehosting ... Partner with cross-functional teams-architects, developers, QA, and business analysts-to gather ...

... systems, and tools. o Lead by example, fostering a culture of quality and continuous learning ... Engineering Excellence Initiatives: o Take the lead in engineering excellence initiatives ...

Senior Mainframe DevOps Architect

San Jose, CA · On-site

$151K - $206K/yr

About the Role We are seeking a Senior Mainframe DevOps Architect to lead solution design and own ... Serve as the final technical tier for complex, cross-system environment challenges encountered ...

Bank is seeking a z/OS Systems Programmer that has extensive experience in mainframe technologies with an emphasis on installation/upgrading, tuning, and troubleshooting of z/OS and third-party ...

Showing results 41-60

Mainframe System Programmer information

See California salary details

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How much do mainframe system programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for mainframe system programmer in California is $57.41, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52.21 and $66.44 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a mainframe system programmer?

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.

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 is a mainframe system programmer?

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.

What job categories do people searching Mainframe System Programmer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Mainframe System Programmer jobs in California are:

Infographic showing various Mainframe System Programmer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $119,422 per year, or $57.4 per hour.

Senior Mainframe COBOL Developer

iSpace, Inc

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$52.75 - $68/hr

Other

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

We are Seeking a Senior Mainframe COBOL Developer with a strong background in enterprise financial systems. The ideal candidate will support mission-critical mainframe applications, troubleshoot production issues, and develop enhancements for high-volume transaction processing systems. Candidates should be comfortable supporting scheduled batch operations as needed.

Required Qualifications
  • 10+ years of COBOL development experience on IBM Mainframe.
  • Strong hands-on experience with COBOL, CICS, DB2, JCL, and MQ.
  • Experience supporting production environments, batch processing, and application maintenance.
  • Background in Automotive Finance, Consumer Lending, Commercial Lending, Banking, or Financial Services.
  • Experience performing application enhancements, impact analysis, debugging, testing, and production support.
  • Familiarity with SDLC, change management, and Agile development practices.
  • Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills.
  • Excellent communication and the ability to collaborate with cross-functional teams.

Local candidates within commuting distance of Los Angeles, CA are preferred. No sponsorship available