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Mainframe Systems Programmer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

The Norland Group

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ADABAS/CICS/IMS Systems Programmer/DBA

Downey, CA · On-site

$65 - $85/hr

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

Xpertiz Inc

Mainframe developer

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$53.25 - $68.50/hr

Mainframe Developer Location : Sacramento, CA, USA (Locals Preferred) Job Type : Hybrid Visa Type ... Design, develop, test, and maintain applications on IBM Mainframe systems * Develop and support ...

West Advanced Technologies (WATI)

Mainframe Operator

Downey, CA · On-site

$50.75 - $65/hr

The Information Technology Mainframe Operator starts and stops system tasks, monitors the system consoles for unusual conditions, and works with the system programming and production control staff to ...

US Tech Solutions

DBA # 26-11938

Downey, CA

$51.75 - $64.50/hr

Duration: 12+ Months A Mainframe Systems Programmer/DBA is responsible for leading and/or supporting the most complex database upgrade projects, modification, installation, testing, implementation ...

US Tech Solutions

DBA # 26-11938

Downey, CA

$51.75 - $64.50/hr

Duration: 12+ Months A Mainframe Systems Programmer/DBA is responsible for leading and/or supporting the most complex database upgrade projects, modification, installation, testing, implementation ...

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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 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for mainframe systems programmer in California is $57.41, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52.21 and $66.44 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.
More about Mainframe Systems Programmer jobs
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Mainframe Systems Programmer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Mainframe Systems Programmer job openings in California as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $119,422 per year, or $57.4 per hour.
IBM Mainframe Z/OS Systems Programmer

IBM Mainframe Z/OS Systems Programmer

West Advanced Technologies (WATI)

Downey, CA • On-site

$56.75 - $72.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

IBM Mainframe Z/OS Systems Programmer
Downey, CA
12 months
Required Skills:
The Consultant must meet all of the following minimum qualifications:
Five (5) years of experience in the last seven (7) years as a systems programmer using IBM's ServerPac/SHOPz/SMPe for installing, configuring, and updating the z/OS operating system and other system level software products on IBM Mainframe hardware in a Parallel Sysplex environment.
Five (5) years of experience in the last seven (7) years as a systems programmer developing IBM zSeries Coupling Facility structure definition and operation support to move structures for machine outages.
Five (5) years of experience in the last seven (7) years as a systems programmer working with IBM's z/OS Unix Systems Services (USS).
Five (5) years of experience in the last seven (7) years as a systems programmer defining hardware Input/Output configurations and IODEF using IBM's Hardware Configuration Definition (HCD) facility.
Five (5) years of experience in the last seven (7) years as a systems programmer configuring IBM Enterprise Server LPARs and System Time Protocol (STP) using IBM's Hardware Management Console (HMC).
Responsibilities:
The Consultant shall perform all of the following:
Install/Upgrade z/OS 2.3 to 2.4 using SMP/E and SHOPz.
Modify HCD/IODEF changes to support Z12BC to Z15 hardware upgrade.
Upgrade Z/OS third party tools to support Z/OS 2.4.
Setup and configure FTP to FTPS conversion changes on Z/OS end.
Define and maintain Sysplex, Coupling Facilities, HMC (Processor Interface), OSA (Networking Interface), ICC (Integrated Console Controller), FICON (Fiber connectivity to peripheral devices).
Implement IBM zSeries Coupling Facility structure definition and operation support to move structures for machine outages, FICON switch configuration and definition in HCD, Server Time Protocol (STP) configuration and operation.
Work on IBM's ISPF, JCL, SDSF, CLISTs, REXX execs, and TSO/E command processors to assist in the customization and usability of z/OS and program products.
Document all technical work, enhance existing documentation, and maintain all documentation in the Section's documentation repository.
Provide technical assistance to customers and Operations Division.
Provide z/OS troubleshooting, problem resolution and 24 x 7 x 365 on-call after hours and weekend support.
Regards
Naresh Damagalla
West Advanced Technologies, Inc
E: naresh.d@wati.com

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