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Mainframe System Programmer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Kyndryl

Mainframe ZOS System Programmer

Phoenix, AZ

$79K - $152K/yr

The Role The Mainframe z/OS System Programmer is responsible for the installation, customization, maintenance, and optimization of IBM z/OS operating systems and associated system software. This role ...

Taproot Solutions

Mainframe IMS System Programmer

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$54.50 - $69.50/hr

Mainframe IMS System Programmer Location : Phoenix, AZ Duration : 12+Months Required Qualifications: * 7+ years of experience with IBM z/OS operating system * Hands-on experience with IMS DB and IMS ...

InstantServe LLC

Mainframe Systems Programmer

Hartford, CT · On-site

$55.50 - $70.50/hr

Mainframe Systems Programmer - Hybrid (Connecticut) Location: Hybrid - Connecticut (Local ... Support testing activities, including unit, integration, system, and user acceptance testing.

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How much do mainframe system programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for mainframe system programmer in the United States is $58.18, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52.88 and $67.31 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.
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Mainframe System Programmer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Mainframe System Programmer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 12% Locum Tenens, 77% Full Time, 1% Part Time, 9% Contract, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 83% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $121,006 per year, or $58.2 per hour.
Mainframe Systems Programmer/SR (29935)

Mainframe Systems Programmer/SR (29935)

IDEALFORCE LLC

Phoenix, AZ

$54.50 - $69.50/hr

Contractor

Re-posted 12 days ago

Job description

Company Description

IDEALFORCE has a Contract-to-Hire positions available immediately for a Mainframe System Programmer/SR to join our customer in Phoenix, AZ. Please find below additional details about this job. Kindly respond with your most up to date resume if you would like to pursue this opportunity. 

Job Description


The Sr. Systems Programmer's main job responsibilities will include Installation, Upgrading,  Customization, Problem Determination, Performance Analysis Tuning, Capacity Planning, and WLM for the IBM Mainframe zSeries z/OS Systems, Hardware Systems & Peripherals, zSeries based ISV (Independent Software Vendor) Software, and zSeries Network Communications.  
Professional skills should include utilizing Project and Change Management, along with excellent communications skills, and experience working directly with the user community, and vendor technical support personnel.  The Systems Programmer is required to be on call 24x7 for providing problem resolution and high systems availability. 
The Sr. Systems Programmer will interface with management and the technical staff to plan and prioritize projects tasks in accordance with departmental goals.   
The Mainframe Sr. Systems Programming skills will require hardware expert knowledge of the currently supported IBM zSeries type Processors and their associated HMC (Processor Interface), SYSPLEX, Coupling Facilities, OSA (Networking Interface), ICC (Integrated Console Controller), FICON (Fiber connectivity to peripheral devices), DASD Storage/Flash Copy and ATL/VTL Tape Storage, and Network Routers (Managing device setup and addressability).  
A detailed knowledge of the z/OS Operating System with hands on experience with the latest z/OS Versions and Release levels is expected.  Operating Systems experience should include expert knowledge of and experience with: z/OS z/AWARE, BCP, JES2, IOCP, HCD, RMF, SMF, DFSMS, DFHSM, DFDSS, FDR, SDSF, DFSORT, SMPE, TSO, CA-MIMS, ISPF/PDF, RACF, SVC Dumps, OMEGAMON, TMON, VTAM/SNA, TCP/IP, OSPF (TCP/IP Routing Protocol), VIPA, and FTP (File Transfer z/OS).  Expert knowledge and experience with the following File Formats is required: PS, PO, PDS, PDS/E, z/FS and VSAM/E). Mainframe Business Continuity/Disaster Recovery with periodic DR testing experience is required.      
The following software experience will be a plus: Assembler, REXX, COBOL, PL1, XML, SAS, MXG, HTML, CRplus, BMC's CONTROL-M, CICS/TS, IMS and DB2.  Additionally, UNIX, and/or Linux experience would also be a plus.     
The Sr. Systems Programmer position requires a minimum of 10 to 15 years in Data Processing, with 8 of those years in z/OS Systems Programming. Employment history should show Job responsibility within large zSeries environments.

Additional Information

- "All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines". 
- All candidates who are authorized to work in US are encouraged to apply.

- Most of our positions require Candidate to clear the Background check prior to commencing the assignment.

SOURCER ASSIGNED: Pete Tylor; Email: pete dot tylor at idealforce.com

Disclaimer: 

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. All personnel may be required to perform duties outside of their normal responsibilities from time to time, as needed.

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About Idealforce

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Idealforce is a reputable company headquartered in Austin, TX, United States, that operates within the dynamic technology industry. As indicated by the information derived from its official website, idealforce.com, the company's specialization lies in providing innovative technology solutions and digital services for various business operations. Founded on the principles of excellence, efficiency, and progressive technology, Idealforce has significantly contributed toward shifting the business landscape to a more digital realm.

Industry

It services

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

Austin, TX, US

Year founded

2008

Social media

Facebook

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