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Mainframe Systems Programmer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Deloitte

Mainframe Developer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$57.75 - $74.25/hr

Required : • 4+ years of experience in software, systems, or embedded engineering • 4+ years of experience in Mainframe application development (COBOL, JCL, DB2) • Experience with incident and ...

Deloitte

Mainframe Developer

San Francisco, CA · Hybrid

$57.75 - $74.25/hr

Develop, test, and deploy code changes for claims processing systems based on technical ... As an experienced Mainframe Developer ,you will have the ability to share new ideas and collaborate ...

Deloitte

Mainframe Developer

Costa Mesa, CA · Hybrid

$52.50 - $67.50/hr

Develop, test, and deploy code changes for claims processing systems based on technical ... As an experienced Mainframe Developer ,you will have the ability to share new ideas and collaborate ...

Deloitte

Mainframe Developer

Fresno, CA · Hybrid

$48.75 - $62.50/hr

Develop, test, and deploy code changes for claims processing systems based on technical ... As an experienced Mainframe Developer ,you will have the ability to share new ideas and collaborate ...

Deloitte

Mainframe Developer

San Jose, CA · Hybrid

$57.50 - $73.75/hr

Develop, test, and deploy code changes for claims processing systems based on technical ... As an experienced Mainframe Developer ,you will have the ability to share new ideas and collaborate ...

US Bank

z/OS Systems Engineer

Cupertino, CA · On-site

Bank is seeking a z/OS Systems Programmer that has extensive experience in mainframe technologies with an emphasis on installation/upgrading, tuning, and troubleshooting of z/OS and third-party ...

Deloitte

Mainframe Developer

Sacramento, CA · Hybrid

$52.25 - $67.25/hr

Develop, test, and deploy code changes for claims processing systems based on technical ... As an experienced Mainframe Developer ,you will have the ability to share new ideas and collaborate ...

Deloitte

Mainframe Techno/Functional Manager

San Francisco, CA · Hybrid

$57.75 - $74.25/hr

Recruiting for this role ends on June 10th, 2026 Qualifications Required * 8+ years of experience in software, systems, or embedded engineering. * 8+ years of experience in Mainframe application ...

Deloitte

Mainframe Techno/Functional Manager

Costa Mesa, CA · Hybrid

$52.50 - $67.50/hr

Recruiting for this role ends on June 10th, 2026 Qualifications Required * 8+ years of experience in software, systems, or embedded engineering. * 8+ years of experience in Mainframe application ...

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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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What are popular job titles related to Mainframe Systems Programmer jobs in CA? For Mainframe Systems Programmer jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
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.
Mainframe Admin

Mainframe Admin

West Advanced Technologies (WATI)

Norwalk, CA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Position: Mainframe Admin
Location: Norwalk, CA
Duration: 12 Months
Minimum Skills:
The Consultant must meet all the following qualifications:
1.Bachelor of Science Degree from an accredited four-year college/university in one of the following majors: Computer Science, Information Technology, Information Systems, Computer Engineering, Software Engineering, Systems Engineering, Applied Computer Sciences, or Informatics. Diplomas must be provided upon request.
2.Three (3) years of experience within the last five (5) years designing, developing, and implementing financial system solutions especially around planning, budgeting, and forecasting including all aspects of the software development life cycle: requirements definition, specifications, design, development, integration, testing, documentation, user Training, implementation, and maintenance.
3.Three (3) years of experience within the last five (5) years configuring and implementing Oracle Planning Budgeting Cloud Services (PBCS) for a medium to large organization with 500 employees or more.
4.Three (3) years of experience within the last five (5) years implementing integration with external systems utilizing RESTful API's.
5.Three (3) years of experience within the last five (5) years with experience in PBCS Calculation Manager, PBCS Smart View, Forms, Menus, and Reports.
6.Three (3) years of experience within the last five (5) years creating and working with Aggregate Storage Option (ASO) and Black Storage Option (BSO) cubes
Thanks & Regards
Rajeev
West Advanced Technologies, Inc
E: rajeev.g2@wati.com
C:2796665837 | T: 5072292946

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