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Mainframe System Programmer Jobs in Maryland (NOW HIRING)

Kaav Inc.

Mainframe z/OS System Programmer

Bethesda, MD · On-site

$59 - $75/hr

IBM z15 and z16 Mainframe and z/OS 2.5 or Higher Operating System Support Supporting IBM z15 and ... Primary tasks include MVS systems programming activities such as system security compliance to ...

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 ... Provides the analysis, design, development, implementation, and support of mainframe system ...

Anivas Tech LLC

Mainframe SRE

Upper Marlboro, MD · On-site

$48.50 - $62.50/hr

Implement Site Reliability Engineering (SRE) principles including SLOs, error budgets, and reliability targets for mainframe systems * Respond to and lead incident resolution efforts for mainframe ...

Zenius

Principal CICS Systems Programmer

Woodlawn, MD · On-site

Leverage deep expertise in CICS system programming, application development, IBM MQ, CICS Transaction Gateway, SAS, REXX, IBM utilities, SMP/E, z/OSMF, COTS tools, and z/OS to optimize mainframe ...

Huntington

Mainframe Systems Engineer III

Hagerstown, MD · On-site

$171K - $203K/yr

The Mainframe Systems Engineer III candidate must have experience in one or more of the following ... Write and maintain system documentation. Responsible for matching current technology with the needs ...

Huntington

Mainframe Systems Engineer III

Hagerstown, MD

$161K - $191K/yr

The Mainframe Systems Engineer III candidate must have experience in one or more of the following ... Write and maintain system documentation. Responsible for matching current technology with the needs ...

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Mainframe System Programmer information

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How much do mainframe system programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for mainframe system programmer in Maryland is $56.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51.35 and $65.34 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.

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.
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Mainframe System Programmer jobs near you
Subject Matter Expert (Mainframe System Programmer)

Subject Matter Expert (Mainframe System Programmer)

ANGARAI

College Park, MD • On-site

$54.50 - $69.25/hr

Other

Posted 22 hours ago

Job description

Job Title

Subject Matter Expert Mainframe System Programmer

Job Description

The Subject Matter Expert Mainframe System Programmer provides senior-level technical leadership and specialized expertise supporting enterprise mainframe environments for complex, mission-critical systems. This role is responsible for defining system requirements, analyzing operational and technical challenges, and developing implementation strategies for mainframe infrastructure, storage, replication, disaster recovery, and system optimization initiatives. The Subject Matter Expert will lead and support modernization, operational stability, and continuity planning for large-scale mainframe platforms, ensuring system reliability, scalability, and alignment with organizational and regulatory requirements.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Define technical problems and develop detailed plans and requirements for moderately complex to highly complex mainframe systems
  • Provide subject matter expertise for enterprise IBM mainframe platforms, storage, and replication technologies
  • Coordinate and manage technical analyses, evaluations, and recommendations for system enhancements and infrastructure initiatives
  • Lead operational support and maintenance activities for z/OS, DB2, and CICS environments
  • Design, implement, and optimize DASD replication, backup, and recovery solutions
  • Support disaster recovery, business continuity, and capacity optimization planning and execution
  • Develop technical specifications and guide the execution of mainframe-related initiatives
  • Analyze system performance, availability, and scalability, recommending improvements as needed
  • Collaborate with cross-functional technical teams to ensure system interoperability and operational resilience
  • Document system architectures, procedures, operational processes, and technical findings
  • Provide guidance on enterprise storage systems, tape systems, and data protection strategies

Requirements:

  • Minimum Qualifications:
    • Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in: Computer Science, Information Systems, Engineering, Business, or another related scientific or technical discipline
    • Minimum 7 years of general experience in the Information Technology field
    • At least 5 years of specialized experience directly related to mainframe systems and the required area of expertise
    • Demonstrated experience defining requirements, performing technical analyses, and developing plans for complex systems
  • Preferred Qualifications:
    • 15 years of experience supporting enterprise mainframe systems, including:
      • IBM z16 2932-A02 and above
      • DS8950 5341-996 and above
      • TS7770 3948-VED and above
    • 15 years of experience operating and maintaining:
      • z/OS version 2.5 and above
      • IBM DB2 version 12 and above
      • CICS Transaction Server version 6.0 and above
    • 10 years of experience with DASD replication technologies, including:
      • IBM Copy Services Manager version 6.3.15.0 and above
      • Implementation and management of Safeguard Copy
    • 10 years of experience in:
      • Disaster recovery planning and execution
      • Business continuity management
      • Capacity planning and system optimization
    • 12+ years of relevant industry experience supporting enterprise IT systems (Senior SME level)
    • 10+ years of advanced specialized technical experience directly related to mainframe systems programming and infrastructure
    • Master's degree or Ph.D. in a related technical discipline (preferred)

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