ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Mainframe Systems Programmer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

NTT DATA Services

Mainframe Systems Programmer

Buffalo, NY · On-site +1

$95K - $177K/yr

This Mainframe Systems Programmer role involves upgrading and supporting the z/OS operating system and ISV products, mainly from IBM and Computer Associates (CA). The successful candidate: * will ...

Tech Mirrors

Mainframe Systems Programmer

Hartford, CT · On-site

$100 - $130/hr

Participate in migration testing, system integration testing, user acceptance testing, and ... Qualifications * 10+ years of Mainframe Development experience. * Expert-level COBOL programming ...

IDEALFORCE LLC

Mainframe Systems Programmer(34394)

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$54.50 - $69.50/hr

Company Description IDEALFORCE has a Contract position available immediately for a Mainframe System Programmer to join our customer in Phoenix, AZ. Please find below additional details about this job.

Highmark Health

Mainframe Systems Programmer - CICS/MQ

$56.25 - $71.75/hr

Experience in mainframe systems programmer with a focus on one or more of the following: * z/OS concepts and utilities * RACF * TSO * Plex Configurations * JES2 * SMP/e * JCL * Assembler * REXX ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsTechnology JobsSoftware JobsSystems Software Engineer JobsMainframe Systems Programmer Jobs

Mainframe Systems Programmer information

See salary details

$10

$58

$78

How much do mainframe systems programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 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 is a mainframe systems programmer?

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 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 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 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.

More about Mainframe Systems Programmer jobs

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:

What are popular job titles related to Mainframe Systems Programmer jobs?

For Mainframe Systems Programmer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Mainframe Systems Programmer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Mainframe Systems Programmer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $121,006 per year, or $58.2 per hour.

Mainframe Systems Programmer

Ronkonkoma, NY • On-site

RIT Solutions, Inc.
Recruiting and Staffing Services • 201 - 500 employees
Learn more about RIT Solutions, Inc.external

$57.75 - $73.25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago

Job description

Job Summary:
RIT Solutions, Inc. is seeking a Mainframe Systems Programmer to serve as the technical lead for the installation and maintenance of Mainframe Systems Infrastructure software. The role involves supporting Software Lifecycle Management and resolving incidents and problems.
Responsibilities:
• Technical lead for installation and maintenance of Mainframe Systems Infrastructure software (including z/OS and/or ISV products) in support of Software Lifecycle Management
• Incident / Problem resolution
Qualifications:
Required:
• Technical lead for installation and maintenance of Mainframe Systems Infrastructure software (including z/OS and/or ISV products) in support of Software Lifecycle Management
• Incident / Problem resolution
Company:
Jobdiva Job Portal: https://www1.jobdiva.com/candidates/myjobs/searchjobsdone.jsp?a=xbjdnwgjodtga1y1im2g881fkkeiwd0775lbvq8yqgps8vb2q36w2vj1ga6xxork&compid=-1 Recruitment (contingency search and campus selection). Founded in 2019, the company is headquartered in Arlington, USA, with a team of 201-500 employees. The company is currently Growth Stage.

Apply