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Mainframe System Programmer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Ensono

Mainframe Security Engineer

Downers Grove, IL · On-site

Employee The primary role of the Mainframe System Security Engineer is to create, modify and maintain security access on internal and external userids and security rules access for mainframe systems.

Collabera

System Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$68 - $75/hr

Mainframe Programming Analyst Contract: 3 months Location: Chicago, IL - 60606 Pay Range: $68/hr - $75/hr Job overview and responsibilities: DB2 Systems professional responsible for DB2 for z/OS and ...

Broadcom

Mainframe Software Development Engineer

Lisle, IL · On-site

$48.25 - $62.25/hr

Preferred : • Expertise on Mainframe extensible frameworks such as ZOWE and dealing with pass ... control systems experience (Endevor) Company : Broadcom is a designer, developer, and global ...

Broadcom

Mainframe Software Development Engineer

Lisle, IL

$48.25 - $62.25/hr

Has mastered the basics of operating as a developer in the IBM mainframe environment * Mainframe ... Source control systems experience (Endevor) Compensation and Benefits The annual base salary range ...

vaaridatech

Mainframe Developer -W2

Chicago, IL

$50.50 - $65/hr

Role - Mainframe Developer Location - Riverwoods, IL (onsite) Job Type- W2 Contract Below * Develop ... Participate in system integration, testing, and deployment activities. * Create and maintain ...

Accenture

Mainframe Specialist

Chicago, IL

$70K - $196K/yr

Evaluate legacy systems and propose actionable modernization strategies-covering rehosting ... Partner with cross-functional teams-architects, developers, QA, and business analysts-to gather ...

Accenture

Mainframe Specialist

Chicago, IL · On-site

$70K - $196K/yr

Evaluate legacy systems and propose actionable modernization strategies-covering rehosting ... Partner with cross-functional teams-architects, developers, QA, and business analysts-to gather ...

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All JobsMainframe System Programmer JobsMainframe System Programmer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Mainframe System Programmer information

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How much do mainframe system programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for mainframe system programmer in Chicago, IL is $59.98, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54.52 and $69.38 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.
What are popular job titles related to Mainframe System Programmer jobs in Chicago, IL? For Mainframe System Programmer jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Mainframe System Programmer jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Mainframe System Programmer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Mainframe System Programmer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Mainframe System Programmer job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 16% Locum Tenens, 71% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 6% Contract, and 2% Summer. Highlights an 83% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $124,753 per year, or $60 per hour.
Mainframe Security Engineer

Mainframe Security Engineer

Ensono

Downers Grove, IL • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

Worker Type:

EmployeeThe primary role of the Mainframe System Security Engineer is to create, modify and maintain security access on internal and external userids and security rules access for mainframe systems. All three security products, ACF2, Top Secret and RACF are utilized for supporting mainframe system access. In addition, they will review security policies, procedures, standards, baselines and may recommend and coordinate security remediation plans involving the implementation of security solutions, both technology and procedures; while maintaining an understanding of security standards, policies and procedures.

Requirements:

Basic Knowledge of Security and good security best practices

  • Hands-on administration of RACF, ACF2 and Top Secret login ID's, dataset and resource rules.
  • Monitor system security policy and violations/incidents
  • Perform and review daily, weekly, and monthly audit reports
  • Liaison with business areas and other technical support areas
  • Provide customer support by preparing ad hoc reports and giving presentations
  • Monitors the environment for adherence to security standards
  • Must be available 24 x7
  • Experience using IBM zSecure security products
  • Experience with REXX or any programming language is a plus
  • iSeries security knowledge a plus

Technical Skills:

  • Excellent TSO, JCL, IBM UTILITIES, JES2, and ISPF a must
  • Experience with CICS preferred
  • Experience using Vanguard security products is desired

General Knowledge:

  • Some MVS experience is a plus
  • PC Skills (Microsoft Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint)


Personal Skills:

  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple concurrent project deliverables and the ability to work as a global team.
  • Ability to work on own initiatives.
  • Strong analytical skills and problem solving skills
  • Must be an excellent team player with the ability to work independently in a fast paced environment
  • Self starter, detailed oriented and ability to multi task
  • Excellent Communication skills required
  • Good written skills are required


Education:

  • CISSP, CISA, CISM or ITIL Certification a plus
  • Bachelors or Masters Degree Preferred
  • Other mainframe security products a plus

Primary Location City/State:

Downers Grove, IL - Finley, Illinois

Additional Locations (if applicable):

Homebased - Downers Grove, IL - Finley

Ensono is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. Ensono provides equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, sex, marital status, pregnancy, age, disability, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran status, military status, or any other status protected by applicable law.

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About Ensono

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Ensono, our **Purpose is to be a relentless ally, disrupting the status quo and unleashing our clients to** **_Do Great Things!_** We enable our clients to achieve key business outcomes that reshape how our world runs. As an expert technology adviser and managed service provider with cross-platform certifications, Ensono empowers our clients to keep up with continuous change and embrace innovation.

Industry

It services

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Downers Grove, IL, US

Year founded

1969

Social media

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