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Mainframe System Programmer Jobs in Maryland (NOW HIRING)

Mainframe SRE

Kettering, 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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

Sr. Mainframe Developer

Woodlawn, MD · On-site

$51 - $65.50/hr

Evaluate the impact of new operating systems, or versions of COBOL and Endevor on programs ... Programmer - COBOL and IBM Enterprise COBOL for z/OS Programming * Solid knowledge of relational ...

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 ...

They are seeking a Lead z/OS Systems Programmer to support, maintain, and enhance the client's IBM mainframe environment, ensuring the stability, security, and performance of mission-critical systems.

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Mainframe System Programmer information

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How much do mainframe system programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 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 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 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.

Is a mainframe system programmer a good career?

A mainframe system programmer is a specialized IT professional responsible for maintaining and optimizing mainframe computer systems, often requiring knowledge of languages like COBOL and tools such as z/OS. The role offers stable employment opportunities, competitive salaries, and demand in industries like finance and government, but it may require ongoing training to keep up with evolving technology. Overall, it can be a good career for those interested in enterprise computing and system management.

What are popular job titles related to Mainframe System Programmer jobs in Maryland?

For Mainframe System Programmer jobs in Maryland, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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

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

Infographic showing various Mainframe System Programmer job openings in Maryland as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $117,442 per year, or $56.5 per hour.

Mainframe z/OS System Programmer

Bethesda, MD • On-site

Syntricate Technologies
IT Services • 51 - 200 employees

$58.75 - $74.75/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 27 days ago


Job description

Job Summary:
Syntricate Technologies is seeking a Mainframe z/OS System Programmer with extensive experience in managing z/OS operating systems. The role involves installing, customizing, and maintaining the IBM mainframe system environment while ensuring compliance with security and operational controls.
Responsibilities:
• Perform systems planning, installation/decommission, configuration/customization, and patching
• Reporting for MVS, familiar with security reports.
• MVS system level parameters and user ID definition process
• Experience defining and validating data encryption methods and security requirements
• Experience monitoring and managing security reporting ensuring systems are compliant
• Assist systems programmers in the design and management of ACF2 / RACF for all regions and LPARs
• Executes regulatory and operational control activities related to user provisioning, de-provisioning and access re-certification
• Proficient in Audits
Qualifications:
Required:
• 10+ years of experience installing, customizing, and maintaining z/OS operating system
• 5+ years of experience Supporting a stabilized IBM mainframe system environment
• Experienced with SMP/E and Mainframe Software Maintenance with performance, problem determination and resolution skills
• Perform systems planning, installation/decommission, configuration/customization, and patching
• Reporting for MVS, familiar with security reports.
• MVS system level parameters and user ID definition process
• Experience defining and validating data encryption methods and security requirements
• Experience monitoring and managing security reporting ensuring systems are compliant
• Assist systems programmers in the design and management of ACF2 / RACF for all regions and LPARs
• Executes regulatory and operational control activities related to user provisioning, de-provisioning and access re-certification
• Proficient in Audits
Company:
Syntricate Technologies offers quality assurance, validation, regulatory, business analysis, and project management services. Founded in 2004, the company is headquartered in Boston, USA, with a team of 51-200 employees. The company is currently Growth Stage.