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Mainframe System Programmer Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Senior Mainframe DevOps Architect

Lisle, IL

$127K - $173K/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 ...

... or other mainframe products and systems is a plus. * Experience with online z/OS debugger is ... Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering or equivalent in a related field.

Mainframe systems are at the heart of the digital economy, with 80% of the world's structured ... programming concepts, and source control. Key Responsibilities Content Creation and Management ...

The Role We are seeking a skilled Mainframe Logical Security Engineer to design, implement, and ... System resources Security Controls & Compliance * Configure and maintain security policies aligned ...

... and Mainframe applications. Interprets process, data modules, and business requirements into ... and system documentation; conduct program and system implementation; maintain application ...

Continually expands knowledge of Broadcom Support best practices, procedures and systems. * Lead ... Share knowledge with other engineers and customers by following KCS methodology and process. Enable ...

Cobol Developer

Springfield, IL

$49.75 - $67.50/hr

Environment and tools are IBM Mainframe platform, z/OS operating system, TSO/ISPF and DB2. * Strong ... An experienced developer with mainframe/COBOL experience to work in business application ...

The Role We are seeking an experienced Mainframe z/VM & Linux Engineer to support IBM Z ... Apply system maintenance: * RSUs, PTFs, APARs, and service updates * Perform system IPLs and ...

We are looking for a seasoned Software Engineer who has navigated complex production mainframe ... SMF (System Management Facility) records * Experience with mainframe debugging tools (XDC, IPCS ...

Showing results 41-60

Mainframe System Programmer information

See Illinois salary details

$9

$56

$75

How much do mainframe system programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for mainframe system programmer in Illinois is $56.37, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51.25 and $65.24 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 Illinois look for? The top searched job categories for Mainframe System Programmer jobs in Illinois are:
What cities in Illinois are hiring for Mainframe System Programmer jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most Mainframe System Programmer job openings:
Infographic showing various Mainframe System Programmer job openings in Illinois as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $117,258 per year, or $56.4 per hour.

Senior Mainframe EDI Programmer

Sonoma Consulting Inc.

Glenview, IL • On-site

Other

Re-posted 16 days ago


Job description

Company Description

Sonoma Consulting is one of the fastest growing Global IT Consulting and Executive Search providers with offices in Naperville IL; Chicago IL; Tyson's Corner VA and Hyderabad India. 

Our clients range from start-ups to Fortune 500 companies throughout the world. We look to our large recruiting team to continue to build upon the high standards we have set and ways to continually improve our recruiting process around the speed and quality of the resources we deliver. The Sonoma team prides itself on best model for delivery of IT Resources in a 24/7 model, our high level of professionalism and integrity which enables us to create long-term, meaningful relationships with our clients. 

Job Description

Key Job Responsibilities:
Participate in translating business and customer requirements into well researched and designed custom applications or existing software modifications with legacy and new systems
    Work on troubleshooting problems as well as recommend / implement effective solutions
    Document testing and maintenance of system changes
    On-call support responsibilities

Qualifications

Requirements:
    Working knowledge of EDI documents and hands-on mapping experience a plus
    Experience with Sterling Integrator (GIS/B2BI) mapping tool is a plus
    Proficient in Mainframe COBOL
    Proficient in DB2 / SQL
    MVS and JCL
    TSO / ISPF
    Good verbal and written communication
    Experience writing technical specifications and developing test plans
    Must have experience and working knowledge of software development life-cycle
    Good troubleshooting skills
    Ability to work in team environment as well as individually
    Familiarity with INSYNC, Xpeditor, CICS, SDSF, IMS and SCLM preferred
    Knowledge of XML structures, EDIFACT standards and JAVA a plus
    Knowledge of FTP and AS2 communications is a plus

Additional Information

Sonoma Consulting is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.


Sonoma Consult logo

About Sonoma Consult

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Sonoma Consult is a California based C corporation helping companies bring products to the patient by working closely with the engineering teams and the clinicians. Our goal, no matter what stage of product development, is to create and execute a plan of action to move the product through the appropriate clinical and regulatory steps. Sonoma Consult works cohesively with the engineers and physicians to translate technologies to the clinic. Our goal is to help you get the very best product to the clinic and to the market. This includes planning, execution and ensuring critical data is delivered in the right format to ensure the feedback loop to the design team ultimately delivers the most advanced technology to the patient.

Industry

Business management consulting

Company size

1 - 10 Employees

Headquarters location

Sonoma, CA, US