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Mainframe System Programmer Jobs in Maryland (NOW HIRING)

Tier 2 Deskside Technician

Fort George G Meade, MD · On-site

$22.50 - $28.50/hr

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

Provide SRE production support for Mainframe applications, APIs, Web Services, and Microservices ... Collaborate with Infrastructure, Cloud, Development, Middleware, and Vendor teams to ensure system ...

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Mainframe System Programmer information

See Maryland salary details

$9

$56

$76

How much do mainframe system programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 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.

Data Integration Specialist (Programmer-Analyst II)

Anne Arundel County

Annapolis, MD • On-site

$76K - $147K/yr

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Anne Arundel County rating

6.2

Company rating: 6.2 out of 10

Based on 11 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

770th of 846 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Position Description This announcement will be used to fill a full-time permanent Programmer-Analyst II position in the Office of Information Technology located in Annapolis, MD. NATURE AND VARIETY OF WORK Work involves analyzing the data of an organization and developing data exchanges and transforms. Work involves designing and implementing APIs, knowledge of database schemas and data access, use of ETL tools (Talend, SSIS, Informatica, etc) and Object-Oriented Programming .

Work involves the responsibility for planning, scheduling, and technically supervising the preparation of programs to process fiscal, statistical, and other data relevant to the County and its operations. Work includes systems analysis detail work; coordinating and participating in the preparation of flow charts, block diagrams, and programs involved in the application of advanced computer programming and analysis work; establishing work schedules and approving completed programs; participating in test and debugging procedures; and analyzing test results to determine causes of equipment or program malfunction. Supervision as a team leader is exercised over subordinate programming personnel and is usually limited to project work.

Work is performed with considerable latitude for initiative and independent judgment within technical guidelines and procedures and is reviewed by a technical superior through conferences and review of reports. Examples of Duties and Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (Note: The duties and responsibilities enumerated in this class specification are for the purpose of determining a common set of minimum qualifications and salary level for all positions in this class. They are not intended to include all of the essential functions of all positions in the class.) Plans, supervises, and participates in the development of software applications for the County and its operations

Leads other technical employees engaged in computer programming and related activities. Participates with systems analysts and others to maintain, debug, and troubleshoot systems and software. Prepares the details of systems design under the direction of a systems analyst.

Reduces software problems to written logical procedural steps and recommends appropriate software, hardware, and method solutions. Reviews completed programs for accuracy and effectiveness; determines the need for revision/modification; supervises the development of test plans. Implements and maintains purchased or leased software program products.

Conducts on-the-job training of subordinate programmers-analysts. Performs related work as required. KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES Thorough knowledge of the capabilities, programming techniques, and intricacies of modern programming languages.

Thorough knowledge of program requirements for conversion of mechanical and clerical processing to a computerized system. Ability to see pertinent detail in symbols when reading, interpreting, or preparing charts, diagrams, and code sheets. Ability to understand and analyze complex oral and written statements concerning a variety of fiscal and statistical problems.

Ability to interpret diagrammatic representations of workflow, visualize the flow of data through computer systems, and prepare logical flow charts. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with administrative officials, employees, and the public. Ability to communicate effectively, orally and in writing.

Ability to lead others in the performance of their duties. ETL & Integration Experience: Significant experience in designing, building, and deploying complex ETL (Extract, Transform, Load) workflows using enterprise tools (Talend preferred). Data Pipeline Orchestration: Proven ability to manage file-based exchanges (sFTP), API-based integrations (REST/SOAP), and batch processing across hybrid environments (On-premise SQL Server to Cloud).

Database Expertise: Strong proficiency in relational database management (MS SQL Server, Oracle) and designing schemas that support both transactional and reporting needs. Modernization: Experience in translating legacy business logic (COBOL, Access VBA, or Mainframe processes) into modern, automated integration jobs. Programming Proficiency: Experience with Object-Oriented Programming (Java/Python) to support custom data transformation scripts and API connectivity.

Minimum Qualifications Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with a bachelor's degree, including or supplemented by courses in electronic computer programming, system analysis, and operating systems; and four (4) years experiences in the field of electronic computer programming NOTE: Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with a bachelor's degree may be substituted on a year-for-year basis for a total of eight (8) or more years of experience in electronic computer programming and/or a system support, application development or related field. Experience must still include or be supplemented by courses in electronic computer programming, system analysis, and operating systems NOTE: This position requires a full background check. Note: Pay will be based on education and direct experience, generally within fifteen percent (15%) of the base pay.

Please note that the Pay Scale shown represents the full proficiency of the position, not the starting range. Note: Normal work schedule is currently hybrid with 2 days per week in the Annapolis Office Note: Accredited University or College is the recognition from an accrediting agency that an institution maintains a certain level of educational standards. The U.S

Department of Education maintains a database of accrediting agencies it recognizes for schools within the United States. For a University or College outside the United States, the applicant must provide documentation of accreditation and educational equivalency, which can be accomplished through a credential evaluation service. Applicants with a foreign degree must provide this documentation upon the close of the announcement.

Supplemental Qualifications Preference will be given to applicants who possess the following: AWS Integration: Direct experience with AWS cloud services (e.g., S3, RDS, Lambda) for cloud-native data warehousing and integration strategies. Enterprise Tooling: Familiarity with the software development lifecycle (SDLC) within a government or public-sector context. Monitoring & Security: Understanding of secure data transmission protocols, encryption at rest/transit, and monitoring tools for integration health checks

Familiarity with County, State or Local Government IT


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