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Mainframe System Programmer Jobs in Ontario (NOW HIRING)

Mainframe z/OS Systems Programmer

Toronto, ON · Hybrid

CA$75.90K - CA$141.90K/yr

Technology As a Mainframe z/OS Systems Programmer, you will be responsible for developing and ... Your expertise in z/OS system skills will be crucial in maintaining and upgrading our mainframe ...

May also be accountable for complex programming / coding ... Requires IBM Mainframe applications systems knowledge and business knowledge. Ability to support a ...

The ideal candidate will have deep technical experience across z/OS systems, batch processing, application support, scheduling tools, and DevOps-enabled mainframe modernization practices. This role ...

Mainframe Developer

Toronto, ON · Hybrid

CA$41 - CA$53/hr

Mainframe Developer Location: Toronto, ON Work Type: Hybrid Job Type: 6-month contract Pay Rate ... Utilize job scheduling tools and source control systems to manage the development lifecycle.

Role: Mainframe Developer - 4 DAYS ONSITE IS MANDATE Location: Toronto, ON Duration: 6 months ... system. • Maintaining reports and reporting tools for traffic management, service centers and ...

Mainframe Developer

Toronto, ON · On-site

CA$45 - CA$55/hr

Debit Card Processing Specialist (Mainframe / Assembler) Apex Systems is a global IT services ... This role is ideal for an intermediate-level engineer/analyst with strong payments/network ...

... systems for performance and efficiency Providing support for testing efforts, including defect ... and how mainframe applications support those needs Good Knowledge in Card Domain (Issuing end ...

... Mainframe Developer will help lead the technical design, development and integration of cross ... Lead multiple complicated projects involving backend systems, new technology, and the enhancement ...

... Mainframe Developer will help lead the technical design, development and integration of cross ... Lead multiple complicated projects involving backend systems, new technology, and the enhancement ...

You will provide system analysis, design / programming, technical documentation, and support for ... Comprehensive experience in mainframe development complex programs using Cobol, JCL, IMS DB, DB2 ...

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Mainframe System Programmer information

See Ontario salary details

$40

$55

$64

How much do mainframe system programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of May 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for mainframe system programmer in Ontario is $55.25, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51.68 and $59.86 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 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.

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 job categories do people searching Mainframe System Programmer jobs in Ontario look for? The top searched job categories for Mainframe System Programmer jobs in Ontario are:
Infographic showing various Mainframe System Programmer job openings in Ontario as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, and 17% Contract. Highlights an 66% In-person, 17% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $114,919 per year, or $55.2 per hour.

Mainframe z/OS Systems Programmer

BMO Capital Markets

Toronto, ON • Hybrid

CA$75.90K - CA$141.90K/yr

Other

Medical, Life, Retirement

Posted 11 days ago


Job description

Application Deadline:

05/30/2026

Address:

4100 Gordon Baker Road

Job Family Group:

Technology

As a Mainframe z/OS Systems Programmer, you will be responsible for developing and implementing IT mainframe infrastructure and platform strategies. Your role will involve ensuring the reliability and security of our mainframe systems, supporting disaster recovery procedures, and collaborating with stakeholders to recommend infrastructure solutions. Your expertise in z/OS system skills will be crucial in maintaining and upgrading our mainframe environment. This is a hybrid role and will require a minimum of 2 days in our Scarborough office.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Develop and implement IT mainframe infrastructure and platform strategies to support business needs and growth.

  • Design, build, install, test, maintain, monitor, and upgrade mainframe infrastructure.

  • Manage current and future technical platform hardware, operating systems, security, and system services layers.

  • Ensure reliable and secure computing and communications capabilities to run business software with optimal cost and availability.

  • Support disaster recovery procedures and troubleshoot network and connectivity issues promptly to minimize disruption.

  • Collaborate with stakeholders to recommend infrastructure solutions based on engineering requirements.

  • Build effective relationships with internal and external stakeholders to support strategic initiatives.

  • Conduct independent analysis and assessment to resolve strategic issues.

  • Break down strategic problems, analyze data, and provide insights and recommendations.

  • Ensure infrastructure solutions are scalable, flexible, supportable, fully monitored, and standardized.

  • Identify opportunities to strengthen the technology organization by sharing expertise, mentoring employees, and building communities of practice.

  • Stay abreast of industry trends through professional associations, practice communities, and individual learning.

  • Exercise judgment to identify, diagnose, and solve problems within given rules.

  • Work independently on a range of complex tasks, including unique situations.

  • Additional responsibilities as assigned.

Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field.

  • Typically, between 5-7 years of relevant experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

  • Comfortable with mainframe tools/components such as TSO, ISPF, NetView, RACF, SMP, and TCP/IP.

  • Working knowledge of mainframe concepts such as LPARs, SYSPLEX, and MVS.

  • Expert knowledge in Unix System Services, RACF, Certificates

  • Possesses a deep understanding and problem-solving ability leveraging logs and dumps

  • Capable of installing, maintaining, and upgrading mainframe software in z/OS using SMP/E

  • Strong verbal and written communication skills.

  • Excellent collaboration and team skills.

  • In-depth analytical and problem-solving skills.

  • Data-driven decision-making abilities.

Nice to Have:

  • Working knowledge of z/OS, Vanguard and Broadcom products, TCP/IP

Salary:

$75,900.00 - $141,900.00

Pay Type:

Salaried

The above represents BMO Financial Group's pay range and type.

Salaries will vary based on factors such as location, skills, experience, education, and qualifications for the role, and may include a commission structure. Salaries for part-time roles will be pro-rated based on number of hours regularly worked. For commission roles, the salary listed above represents BMO Financial Group's expected target for the first year in this position.

BMO Financial Group's total compensation package will vary based on the pay type of the position and may include performance-based incentives, discretionary bonuses, as well as other perks and rewards. BMO also offers health insurance, tuition reimbursement, accident and life insurance, and retirement savings plans. To view more details of our benefits, please visit:https://jobs.bmo.com/global/en/Total-Rewards

About Us

At BMO we are driven by a shared Purpose: Boldly Grow the Good in business and life. It calls on us to create lasting, positive change for our customers, our communities and our people. By working together, innovating and pushing boundaries, we transform lives and businesses, and power economic growth around the world.

As a member of the BMO team you are valued, respected and heard, and you have more ways to grow and make an impact. We strive to help you make an impact from day one - for yourself and our customers. We'll support you with the tools and resources you need to reach new milestones, as you help our customers reach theirs. From in-depth training and coaching, to manager support and network-building opportunities, we'll help you gain valuable experience, and broaden your skillset.

To find out more visit us at https://jobs.bmo.com/ca/en.

BMO is committed to an inclusive, equitable and accessible workplace. By learning from each other's differences, we gain strength through our people and our perspectives. Accommodations are available on request for candidates taking part in all aspects of the selection process. To request accommodation, please contact your recruiter.

Note to Recruiters: BMO does not accept unsolicited resumes from any source other than directly from a candidate. Any unsolicited resumes sent to BMO, directly or indirectly, will be considered BMO property. BMO will not pay a fee for any placement resulting from the receipt of an unsolicited resume. A recruiting agency must first have a valid, written and fully executed agency agreement contract for service to submit resumes.