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Mainframe Systems Programmer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Mainframe Systems Programmer

Hartford, CT · On-site

$55.50 - $70.50/hr

Mainframe Systems Programmer - Hybrid (Connecticut) Location: Hybrid - Connecticut (Local Candidates Only) Duration: Long-Term Contract Job Overview The Connecticut Department of Social Services (DSS ...

Mainframe Systems Programmer

Portland, OR · On-site

$58.25 - $74.25/hr

Mainframe Systems Programmer Location: Onsite in Portland, OR (Local or Neighboring State Candidates) Position Overview: Responsible for supporting a mainframe critical to customer service and work ...

Mainframe Systems Programmer

Hartford, CT · On-site

$55.50 - $70.50/hr

Mainframe Systems Programmer - Hybrid (Connecticut) Location: Hybrid - Connecticut (Local Candidates Only) Duration: Long-Term Contract Job Overview The Connecticut Department of Social Services (DSS ...

Mainframe Systems Programmer

Portland, OR · On-site

$58.25 - $74.25/hr

Mainframe Systems Programmer Location: Onsite in Portland, OR (Local or Neighboring State Candidates) Position Overview: Responsible for supporting a mainframe critical to customer service and work ...

Mainframe Systems Programmer

Ronkonkoma, NY · On-site

$57.75 - $73.25/hr

Mainframe Systems Programmer Technical lead for installation and maintenance of Mainframe Systems Infrastructure software (including z/OS and/or ISV products) in support of Software Lifecycle ...

Mainframe Systems Programmer (DB2) Location: Manhattan, NY (100% Remote) Type: Remote - Contract Rate: $80/hour on W2 Must: A minimum of 10 years of experience working with z/OS Position Description:

Mainframe Systems Programmer

Downey, CA · On-site

$56.75 - $72.25/hr

Mainframe Systems Programmer/DBA is responsible for leading and/or supporting the most complex database upgrade projects, modification, installation, testing, implementation, maintenance and ...

Sr Mainframe Systems Programmer

Downey, CA · On-site

$56.75 - $72.25/hr

Sr Mainframe Systems Programmer Location: Downey, CA, 90242 Duration: 12 Months Position Description A Mainframe Systems Programmer/DBA is responsible for leading and/or supporting the most complex ...

Senior Mainframe Systems Programmer

$56.25 - $71.75/hr

Senior Mainframe Systems Programmer Location: Washington DC 100% REMOTE until any further notice Job Type: 6 Months Contract - Possible extension 8-10 Years' Experience of Mainframe Systems ...

Mainframe Systems Programmer

$56.25 - $71.75/hr

Mainframe Systems Programmer (Tivoli) Duration: 6+ months Location: Remote Visa type: only USC, GC Interview mode: telephonic, skype Note: Overall they are looking out for 9+ years of experience. BMC ...

Mainframe Systems Programmer

Birmingham, AL · On-site

$51.50 - $65.50/hr

Precision Resources, a division of the Trimarc Group Inc., is currently seeking a Mainframe Systems Programmer for a REMOTE position for one of our Alabama clients. This qualified individual will be ...

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Mainframe Systems Programmer information

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How much do mainframe systems programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for mainframe systems 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 Does a Mainframe Systems Programmer Do?

As a mainframe systems programmer, your responsibilities are to maintain an organization’s server computer, also called a mainframe computer. Your duties include handling server configuration, as well as installing, upgrading, and customizing the operating system and other software necessary for running the server and its databases. You also work with other IT professionals with the planning of security measures to protect the mainframe and routinely perform tests for bugs and other security issues.

What are some common challenges Mainframe Systems Programmers face when maintaining legacy systems?

Mainframe Systems Programmers often encounter challenges related to supporting and upgrading legacy systems that may have limited documentation or use outdated programming languages. Navigating compatibility issues with newer hardware or software can require creative problem-solving and deep technical expertise. Additionally, ensuring system security and reliability while performing upgrades or patches involves careful planning and collaboration with other IT and business teams. Staying current with evolving mainframe technologies and practices is essential for long-term success in the role.

What is the difference between Mainframe Systems Programmer vs Mainframe Application Developer?

AspectMainframe Systems ProgrammerMainframe Application Developer
CredentialsTypically requires certifications like IBM Certified Systems ProgrammerOften requires programming certifications or specific language expertise
Work EnvironmentWorks primarily on system-level tasks, OS, and hardware interactionsFocuses on developing and maintaining applications on mainframe platforms
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in large enterprises with mainframe infrastructureAlso in large organizations, but more application-focused
Job FocusSystem configuration, performance tuning, and maintenanceApplication coding, testing, and deployment

The Mainframe Systems Programmer primarily manages system-level tasks, ensuring the mainframe environment runs efficiently, while the Mainframe Application Developer focuses on creating and maintaining applications. Both roles are essential in mainframe environments but differ in their technical focus and responsibilities.

What are Mainframe Systems Programmers?

Mainframe Systems Programmers are IT professionals responsible for installing, configuring, maintaining, and troubleshooting mainframe computer systems and software. They ensure that the mainframe environment runs efficiently, securely, and reliably, supporting critical business operations. Their duties often include system upgrades, performance tuning, applying patches, and collaborating with other IT teams to resolve complex technical issues. Mainframe Systems Programmers play a key role in organizations that rely on large-scale transaction processing, such as banks, insurance companies, and government agencies.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Mainframe Systems Programmer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Mainframe Systems Programmer, you need expertise in system programming, operating systems like z/OS, and strong problem-solving abilities, usually supported by a degree in computer science or related field. Familiarity with mainframe tools such as IBM z/OS utilities, JCL, REXX, and experience with system monitoring and performance tuning software are commonly required. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective communication skills help ensure smooth collaboration and troubleshooting. These skills are essential to maintain, optimize, and secure critical enterprise computing environments that rely on mainframe infrastructure.
What cities are hiring for Mainframe Systems Programmer jobs? Cities with the most Mainframe Systems Programmer job openings:
Who are the top companies hiring for Mainframe Systems Programmer jobs? The top employers for Mainframe Systems Programmer jobs are:
What states have the most Mainframe Systems Programmer jobs? States with the most job openings for Mainframe Systems Programmer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Mainframe Systems Programmer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Mainframe Systems Programmer jobs are:
Infographic showing various Mainframe Systems Programmer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, and 9% Part Time. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $121,006 per year, or $58.2 per hour.
Mainframe Systems Programmer

Mainframe Systems Programmer

InstantServe LLC

Hartford, CT • On-site

$55.50 - $70.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Mainframe Systems Programmer - Hybrid (Connecticut)
Location: Hybrid - Connecticut (Local Candidates Only)
Duration: Long-Term Contract
Job Overview
The Connecticut Department of Social Services (DSS) is seeking an experienced Mainframe Systems Programmer to support a large-scale enterprise data migration and legacy modernization initiative. This role requires a senior-level professional with extensive hands-on experience in mainframe technologies, data conversion, system analysis, and batch processing environments. The selected candidate will play a key role in analyzing legacy applications, extracting and converting data, and supporting migration efforts from IMS-based systems to modern target platforms.
Key Responsibilities
  • Analyze and document existing legacy mainframe applications and business processes.
  • Design, develop, and execute data extraction, conversion, and migration solutions.
  • Modify, maintain, and enhance COBOL programs and JCL scripts to support migration activities.
  • Work extensively with IMS databases, including data analysis, validation, and reconciliation.
  • Develop and execute batch processing solutions and troubleshoot production issues.
  • Utilize FTP/SFTP processes for secure file transfers and data movement.
  • Perform data validation, quality assurance, and reconciliation between source and target systems.
  • Support testing activities, including unit, integration, system, and user acceptance testing.
  • Create technical documentation, migration procedures, and operational support materials.
  • Collaborate with business stakeholders, technical teams, and project management throughout the migration lifecycle.
  • Identify and resolve complex system and data-related issues independently.
Required Qualifications
  • 10+ years of experience as a Mainframe Systems Programmer or Mainframe Developer.
  • Strong hands-on experience with:
    • COBOL
    • JCL (Job Control Language)
    • IMS Database
    • Mainframe Development and Support
  • Experience performing data extraction, conversion, migration, and reconciliation activities.
  • Strong knowledge of batch processing environments and scheduling.
  • Experience with FTP/SFTP file transfer processes.
  • Proven ability to analyze and troubleshoot complex legacy systems.
  • Strong documentation, communication, and problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to work independently in a fast-paced project environment.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with BMC Utilities for IMS.
  • Experience using File-AID, EZtrieve, CLIST, and REXX.
  • Prior involvement in legacy modernization or large-scale data migration projects.
  • Experience in government, healthcare, insurance, or financial services environments.
  • Familiarity with enterprise data integration and modernization initiatives.
Additional Information
  • Hybrid work arrangement within Connecticut.
  • Candidates must currently reside in Connecticut.
  • Strong preference for candidates with prior state government or public sector experience.
  • Immediate interviews for qualified local candidates.

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About InstantServe

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

InstantServe provides a one-stop solution to all Healthcare, IT/Non-IT Staffing needs. Established in 2016, InstantServe is a strong workforce of over 100+ go-getters with a demonstrated background in IT/Non-IT service. We are a nationally certified SBE from the Department of Administration (State of PA). As a proud Minority Woman Owned Small Business Enterprise (M/WBE), InstantServe boasts of a strong team of professionals who have extensive experience catering to several Federal, Public, Commercial, and Healthcare Clients which includes 26 States and 46 government agencies. InstantServe is a client-centric organization that offers cost-effective and reliable solutions. Client satisfaction is sacrosanct! Our team strives to provide the best staffing and IT solutions to take your business to the next level.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

Wayne, PA, US

Year founded

2016

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