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Mainframe Systems Programmer Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Cynet Systems

DB2 Mainframe Developer

Bloomington, IL · On-site

$45 - $50/hr

DB2 Mainframe Developer Job Location: Bloomington IL Job Type: Contract Job Overview: Pay Range ... Cynet Systems Inc. reserves the right to modify, amend, or terminate any benefit plans at any time ...

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Mainframe Systems Programmer information

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$75

How much do mainframe systems programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 31, 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.

Are mainframe jobs in demand?

Mainframe systems programmers are in steady demand due to the continued reliance of large organizations on mainframe infrastructure for critical applications. Skills in COBOL, JCL, and mainframe security are highly valued, and many companies seek experienced professionals to maintain and upgrade legacy systems. The demand remains stable, especially in finance, government, and healthcare sectors that depend on mainframe technology.

What does a mainframe systems programmer do?

A mainframe systems programmer is responsible for installing, maintaining, and troubleshooting mainframe operating systems and software. They configure hardware, optimize system performance, and ensure security and reliability, often using tools like z/OS and JCL. Strong knowledge of system architecture and scripting is essential for this role.

Can mainframe be replaced by AI?

Mainframe systems programmers manage and maintain large-scale mainframe environments that run critical enterprise applications. While AI can automate certain tasks like monitoring and troubleshooting, it is unlikely to fully replace the specialized skills required for mainframe system programming, which involves complex configuration, security, and performance tuning. Mainframes remain essential in industries with high-volume transaction processing, and programmers need expertise in languages like COBOL and tools such as z/OS.

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 is the salary of a mainframe developer?

The salary of a mainframe systems programmer typically ranges from $70,000 to $120,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Senior roles or those with specialized skills in COBOL, JCL, or mainframe security may earn higher salaries. Compensation often includes benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans.

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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% Locum Tenens, 81% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 8% Contract, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $117,258 per year, or $56.4 per hour.

Information Systems Advisor I - zOS Systems Programmer Mainframe Network Specialist

Illinois Secretary of State

Springfield, IL • On-site

$6.7K - $12K/mo

Other

Re-posted 23 days ago

Job description

Office of the Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias
Job Title: Information Systems Advisor I - zOS Systems Programmer Mainframe Network Specialist
Division: Technology Office - Infrastructure
Union: IFT
Location: 501 S 2 nd St., Springfield, IL - Sangamon County
Salary: Range from $6,759 to $12,573 monthly. Commensurate with experience
Benefits:
Attention: Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States; the Office of the Secretary of State will not complete certification and/or sponsorship requests.
Overview:
Will serve as a senior resource to assist ILSOS with general system administration for an IBM z16 mainframe and DR environment with experience in maintaining and assisting with mainframe network administration, security certificates, SFTP, APIs, TCPIP. The role is critical to ensuring the resilience, availability, security, and compliance of the State's enterprise mainframe infrastructure. The successful candidate will work with IBM, HPE, and internal IT teams to design, implement, monitor, primary and secondary mainframe systems that support the Secretary of State's mission-critical applications.
Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Provide advanced system administration and technical leadership for IBM z/OS mainframe systems.
  • Manage and maintain network configurations, connectivity, and communication protocols (SNA, TCP/IP, VTAM, NJE, etc.) in the mainframe environment.
  • Troubleshoot and resolve complex system, network, and application-level issues, driving root cause analysis and long-term corrective actions.
  • Assist with planning and application of system maintenance, software upgrades, and PTFs, coordinating with system programmers and vendor support.
  • Administer and enforce mainframe security policies (RACF, ACF2, or Top Secret), including user access management and compliance controls.
  • Participate in and provide guidance for problem, change, and incident management processes, ensuring timely resolution and documentation.
  • Collaborate with infrastructure, application, and network teams to ensure seamless integration and high availability across systems.
  • Mentor junior administrators and contribute to process improvement and automation initiatives.
  • Performs other duties as required or assigned.
Education and Experience:
Requires knowledge, skill, and mental development equivalent to the completion of two years of college, with coursework in the computer science field AND four years of experience with technical systems and/or programming experience and/or IT project management OR any equivalent combination of education and experience.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
  • Requires extensive knowledge of systems design and implementation, including the way programs are written, compiled, and tested, the methods of operating computers, and the way data is transcribed into a form suitable for reading by computer and has an appreciation of the wider business context for those programs.
  • Requires excellent oral and written communication skills for effective engagement with colleagues and internal users/customers.
  • Requires extensive knowledge necessary to effectively perform the ability to exercise sound judgement in analyzing, appraising, evaluating, and solving problems of a procedural, organizational, administrative, and technical nature.
  • Requires awareness and adherence to organizational standards for security, privacy and ethics.
  • Requires extensive knowledge of the devices for capturing data for computers and the means available for receiving and transmitting data from remote locations to a computer.
  • Requires extensive knowledge of the principles and techniques of computer system documentation.
  • Requires extensive knowledge of the advantages and limitations of computer communication, and information retrieval systems as management information tools.
  • Requires the ability to organize facts and findings, analyze data logically and to present results with clarity and comprehension, orally and in written or graphic form.
  • Requires the ability to use and understand appropriate methods, tools, applications, and processes to demonstrate a rational and organized approach to work.
  • Requires willingness to travel and possession of a valid Illinois driver's license as required by individual positions within the class.
  • Requires the ability to push/pull, lift and carry up to 50 lbs. Requires a valid Illinois Driver's License.
Application Process:
  • Please visit to apply by completing the online application; you may also upload a resume or other attachments as needed .
  • Preference will be given to Illinois residents in the hiring and selection process, in accordance with the Illinois Secretary of State Merit Employment Code.
  • Questions regarding this posting or Illinois Secretary of State employment practices may be directed to Job Counselors at our Personnel offices in Chicago ) or Springfield ).
Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. Applicants must be lawfully authorized to work in the United States.
Applicants are considered for all positions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, marital or veteran status, or the presence of a non-job-related medical condition or disability.

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