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Mainframe Systems Programmer Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

3B Staffing LLC

Mainframe Developer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$50.50 - $65/hr

This is for local Mainframe developers.. Contract to hire only Must have GC or USC only 8+ years ... of systems/contexts affected when defining technical designs * Performs analysis on failures ...

New

3B Staffing LLC

Mainframe Developer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$50.50 - $65/hr

This is for local Mainframe developers.. Contract to hire only Must have GC or USC only 8+ years ... of systems/contexts affected when defining technical designs * Performs analysis on failures ...

New

VIVA USA INC

Mainframe Security Specialist

Springfield, IL · On-site

$48.50 - $62.50/hr

Mainframe Security Skills: Proficiency in mainframe security (e.g., RACF, Data security, and ... for payroll system development and maintenance. VIVA is an equal opportunity employer. All ...

Staffingine LLC

Tandem Developer

Rolling Meadows, IL · On-site

$49.25 - $63.25/hr

Strong experience with Tandem HP NonStop systems and tools * Proficiency in Tandem programming ... CICS,JCL,Mainframe Enterprise Cobol,Mainframe DB2,Z/OS,CICS Admin,Mainframe - COBOL/JCL/CICS ...

Huntington

RACF Mainframe Security Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$70K - $140K/yr

The RACF Mainframe Security Engineer is accountable for delivery and implementation of IAM ... engineering team and associated systems. * Responsible for developing and maintaining ...

New

Broadcom

Senior Mainframe DevOps Architect

Lisle, IL · On-site

$127K - $173K/yr

About the Role We are seeking a Senior Mainframe DevOps Architect to lead solution design and own ... Serve as the final technical tier for complex, cross-system environment challenges encountered ...

Huntington

RACF Mainframe Security Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$70K - $140K/yr

The RACF Mainframe Security Engineer is accountable for delivery and implementation of IAM ... engineering team and associated systems. * Responsible for developing and maintaining ...

New

Broadcom

Senior-level Technical Writer

Lisle, IL · On-site

Mainframe systems are at the heart of the digital economy, with 80% of the world's structured ... programming concepts, and source control. Key Responsibilities Content Creation and Management ...

Broadcom

R&D Engineer Software 3

Lisle, IL · On-site +1

... or other mainframe products and systems is a plus. * Experience with online z/OS debugger is ... Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering or equivalent in a related field.

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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 13, 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.

Mainframe Integration Engineer

VIVA USA INC

Springfield, IL • On-site

$103K - $138K/yr

Contractor

Re-posted 26 days ago

Job description

Description:
Integration Engineering Skills:
Skills in system integration and testing, ensuring seamless operation across mainframe and non-mainframe platforms and expertise in common Mainframe technologies including but not limited to (e.g., Assembler, COBOL, EasyTrieve, CICS, CISC Map, DB2, JCL, CA Scheduler, MS, Rocket Software Mobius, CA-TELON, among others described throughout the RFP) for payroll system development and maintenance.
VIVA is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants have an equal opportunity for placement, and all employees have an equal opportunity to develop on the job. This means that VIVA will not discriminate against any employee or qualified applicant on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status

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