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Mainframe System Programmer Jobs in Portland, OR

US Bank

Automation Engineer 3 (Mainframe/Hogan)

Gresham, OR · On-site

$92K - $109K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Automation Engineer tests, creates, implements and supports robotics process and desktop ... Creates comprehensive test plans and test cases; defines automation data needs across systems and ...

MSCCN

Field Service Technician II (ATM) - Portland OR

Portland, OR · On-site

$30K - $45K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Field Engineer? Service Technician? Or do you want to become a member of this field? Are you tech ... and system overhauls • Manage everything from network faults and traffic, to configuration ...

All JobsMainframe System Programmer JobsMainframe System Programmer Jobs in Portland, OR

Mainframe System Programmer information

See Portland, OR salary details

$10

$61

$83

How much do mainframe system programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for mainframe system programmer in Portland, OR is $61.70, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $56.11 and $71.39 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 Portland, OR?

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

What job categories do people searching Mainframe System Programmer jobs in Portland, OR look for?

The top searched job categories for Mainframe System Programmer jobs in Portland, OR are:

Mainframe System Programmer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Mainframe System Programmer job openings in Portland, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $128,328 per year, or $61.7 per hour.

Mainframe System Programer

ShiftCode Analytics, Inc.

Portland, OR • On-site

$58.25 - $74.25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 19 days ago

Job description

Job Summary:
ShiftCode Analytics, Inc. is seeking a Mainframe System Programmer to support a critical mainframe system for customer service and work management. The role involves day-to-day operations, troubleshooting, and performance monitoring of the mainframe, along with participation in a transformation project.
Responsibilities:
• Perform day-to-day mainframe operations, troubleshooting, and performance monitoring.
• Capture screens and documentation for audits; validate technical direction from vendors
• Interact with auditors and support audit requirements.
• Apply software upgrades and manage mainframe licenses.
• Question and validate vendor recommendations analytically, without confrontation.
Qualifications:
Required:
• Strong experience with ZOS.
• Familiarity with Cool: Gen, Endeavor (CA Endevor SCM) and RACF.
• Advanced troubleshooting skills.
• Prior mainframe experience required.
• Dell DLM (Disk Library for Mainframe) experience needed.
Preferred:
• utility industry experience
Company:
ShiftCode Analytics Inc is a Tampa, FL based firm formed with one sole purpose of delivering best and quick services to its clients nationwide. Founded in 2019, the company is headquartered in Tampa, USA, with a team of 51-200 employees. The company is currently Growth Stage.
ShiftCode Analytics logo

About ShiftCode Analytics

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

We specialize in solid end-to-end delivery of tailor-made technology solutions designed by the Top 1% Software Engineering teams. Our innate digital leadership identity powers transformation across every industry. We are always ready to drive meaningful change with a strategic vision for the future. We rigorously test for logical/mathematical reasoning skills, technical ability and soft skills in our interview process. Only those engineers who score highly across each of these areas are presented to our clients.

Industry

It services

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

Tampa, FL, US

Year founded

2019

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