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Mainframe System Programmer Jobs in Maryland (NOW HIRING)

... engineering, and systems integration. www.tekwissen.com Should be able to Designs, develops and supports application solutions with focus on mainframe DB2 applications including ability to query DB2 ...

Provides Tier 2 desktop support to users for PC, server, mainframe applications, and hardware ... May interact with network services, software systems engineering, and/or applications development ...

Senior Software Test Engineer

Lanham, MD · Hybrid

$110K - $143K/yr

This position supports the IRS Enterprise System Testing (EST) program , which provides ... Conduct functional and/or integration testing of multiple programs in an IBM mainframe, client ...

Senior Software Test Engineer

Lanham, MD · On-site

$80 - $128/hr

This position supports the IRS Enterprise System Testing (EST) program, which provides ... Conduct functional and/or integration testing of multiple programs in an IBM mainframe, client ...

Senior Software Test Engineer

Lanham, MD · Hybrid

$110K - $143K/yr

This position supports the IRS Enterprise System Testing (EST) program , which provides ... Conduct functional and/or integration testing of multiple programs in an IBM mainframe, client ...

Senior Software Test Engineer

Lanham, MD · On-site

$80K - $128K/yr

This position supports the IRS Enterprise System Testing (EST) program , which provides ... Conduct functional and/or integration testing of multiple programs in an IBM mainframe, client ...

This position supports the IRS Enterprise System Testing (EST) program, which provides ... Conduct functional and/or integration testing of multiple programs in an IBM mainframe, client ...

This position supports the IRS Enterprise System Testing (EST) program , which provides ... Conduct functional and/or integration testing of multiple programs in an IBM mainframe, client ...

Mid-Level Software Test Engineer

Lanham, MD · On-site

$66K - $106K/yr

This position supports the IRS Enterprise System Testing (EST) program , which provides ... Conduct functional and/or integration testing of multiple programs in an IBM mainframe, client ...

Showing results 41-60

Mainframe System Programmer information

See Maryland salary details

$9

$56

$76

How much do mainframe system programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 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 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.

E2 - Systems Analyst - Cyber Engineer Level 2

APPLIED INTEGRATED TECHNOLOGIES INC

Columbia, MD

$56.25 - $69.25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 18 days ago


Job description

Under general supervision, demonstrated ability to independently perform complex security analysis of classified and unclassified applications, systems and enclaves for compliance with security requirements. Performs ICS (Industrial Control System)/SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) IT (Information Technology) & OT (Operational Technology) cybersecurity vulnerability evaluations. Uses a variety of security techniques, technologies, and tools to evaluate security posture in highly complex computer systems and networks. Ability to perform vulnerability and risk analysis as well as participating in a variety of computer security penetration studies.

Analyzes and defines security requirements for ICS & SCADA computer and networking systems, to include mainframes, workstations, and personal computers. Recommends solutions to meet security requirements. Gathers and organizes technical information about an organization's mission goals and needs as well as makes recommendations to improve existing security posture.  Demonstrated understanding of ICS/SCADA IT & OT Protocols and Network Interfaces. Competent to work on most phases of information systems auditing. Demonstrated understanding of ICS/SCADA Cyber protections and assessments.

Requirements for 3-7 years of experience in OT and IT

Required: 1) OT design, construction, implementation, installation, programming, Factory Acceptance Test (FAT), Site Acceptance Test (SAT), and/or Operations and Maintenance of ICSs; 2) This experience will be in electrical, mechanical, security, and fire alarm systems; 3) Cyber security defense in IT and OT systems; 4) Knowledge in IT and OT protocols; 5) IT design, construction, implementation, installation, programming, FAT (Factory Acceptance Test), SAT (Site Acceptance Test), and/or Operations and Maintenance of IT systems; 6) Knowledge in IT and OT configuration management, system management, end point defense, log management, updates and patching, encryption techniques and procedures, Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), security policies, password management, contingency and continuity of planning policies, risk assessment, auditing, incident response and mitigation techniques; and 7) Cyber analysis of IT and OT systems.

Desired: 1) Hands-on experience of programming ICS vendor Human Machine Interface (HMI) equipment as well as Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) and/or Remote Terminal Units (RTUs); 2) Knowledge in OT and IT system interaction; and 3) Hands-on experience of loading Windows and Linux/Unix OS (Operating Systems), installation of laptop and desktop software and hardware on these systems, installation of network software and hardware on these systems, configuration and maintenance of hardware systems, configuration and maintenance of software systems, configuration and maintenance of network systems, and configuration and maintenance of databases.

Education

BS in Engineering, Computer Science, Information Systems, Cyber Security, or related field. Training in ICS and SCADA is required. Security and Facilities Operation Center experience is highly desired. CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional), CSSA (Certified SCADA Security Architect), GICSP (Global Industrial Control Security Professional), ICS-Cert, ISA Certification, and MS (Microsoft) Windows Operating Systems certifications, MS Server certifications, MS Database certifications, Linux Operating Systems certifications, Linux Server certifications, and Linux Database certifications or relevant experience are highly desired. Knowledge of NIST SP 800-53, Revision 4 and NIST SP 800-82, Revision 2 are required.

This position requires 30% travel.