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Mainframe Systems Programmer Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

DSNSearch

CICS/MQ Systems Programmer

Chicago, IL · Remote

$56.75 - $72/hr

CICS /MQ MAINFRAME SYSTEMS PROGRAMMER CICS ~~ MQ ~~ Z/OS MAINFRAME SYSTEMS ~~ SMP/E ~~ JES 2 ~~ CICSPLEX ~~ INFRASTRUCTURE REMOTE !!~~ REMOTE!! ~~~~FULL TIME WITH BENEFITS/ANNUAL BONUS OPPORTUNITY~

krg technology inc

Mainframe network Admin

Chicago, IL · On-site

Configuration and administration of network related 3rd party system software. Provision of technical support for Mainframe Networking issues during the normal working day and out of hours on call ...

US Bank

z/OS Systems Engineer

Chicago, IL

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

CYNET SYSTEMS

DB2 Mainframe Developer

Bloomington, IL · On-site

$45 - $50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Experience with Mainframe technologies including PL/1, IMSDB, DB2, and JCL. * Strong understanding ... Cynet Systems Inc. reserves the right to modify, amend, or terminate any benefit plans at any time ...

Atria Group LLC

Mainframe/Cobol developer

Bloomington, IL

$47 - $60.50/hr

... engineering, systems development, testing, integration, and implementation, and management ... Mainframe/Cobol developer * Resource needed with industry knowledge/experience of IBM's Rational ...

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Mainframe Systems Programmer information

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How much do mainframe systems programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for mainframe systems programmer in Illinois is $56.37, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51.25 and $65.24 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 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 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.
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Mainframe Systems Programmer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Mainframe Systems Programmer job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $117,258 per year, or $56.4 per hour.

CICS/MQ Systems Programmer

DSNSearch

Chicago, IL • Remote

$56.75 - $72/hr

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

CICS /MQ MAINFRAME SYSTEMS PROGRAMMER
                        CICS  ~~ MQ  ~~ Z/OS MAINFRAME SYSTEMS  ~~
                        SMP/E  ~~ JES 2 ~~ CICSPLEX ~~ INFRASTRUCTURE
                                          REMOTE !!~~ REMOTE!!
   ~~~~FULL TIME WITH BENEFITS/ANNUAL BONUS OPPORTUNITY~~~
  • PROVEN EXPERTISE IN Z/OS MAINFRAME SYSTEMS PROGRAMMING WITH EMPHASIS ON CICS COMPONENTS
  • MQ SYSTEMS EXPERIENCE A BIG PLUS
  • SUPPORT CICS USING SMP/E, ISPF
  • INSTALL/MAINTAIN CICS SOFTWARE PRODUCTS
 **CLIENT CANNOT CONSIDER H1B SPONSORSHIP AT THIS TIME**
At DSN, we bring over 25 years of experience and expertise in the information systems industry. We are committed to securing rewarding careers for our qualified candidates, while providing our clients with the best talent available. Our searches are selective, confidential and informed by a comprehensive knowledge of today's IT marketplace.