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Mainframe Systems Programmer Jobs in Madison, WI

Field Engineer? Service Technician? Or do you want to start a career in this field? Are you tech ... Perform maintenance, repair, PM work, and system overhauls. Basic Qualifications to qualify:

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Mainframe Systems Programmer information

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$10

$58

$78

How much do mainframe systems programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for mainframe systems programmer in Madison, WI is $58.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53.32 and $67.84 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encounter challenges related to supporting and upgrading legacy systems that may have limited documentation or use outdated programming languages.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.
What are popular job titles related to Mainframe Systems Programmer jobs in Madison, WI? For Mainframe Systems Programmer jobs in Madison, WI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Mainframe Systems Programmer jobs in Madison, WI look for? The top searched job categories for Mainframe Systems Programmer jobs in Madison, WI are:
Infographic showing various Mainframe Systems Programmer job openings in Madison, WI as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 33% Full Time, and 67% Contract. Highlights an 33% In-person, and 67% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $121,948 per year, or $58.6 per hour.
Lead Guidewire PolicyCenter Architect

Lead Guidewire PolicyCenter Architect

American Family Mutual Insurance Company

Madison, WI • On-site

$131K - $220K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago


Job description

This position drives enterprise architecture solutions, framework, roadmap, program optimization and process engineering in a high-velocity culture by introducing technology, requirements, deliverables, gaps and systems design. Analyzes competitive strategies, architecture frameworks, metrics models, and performance indicators.
Position Compensation Range:
$131,000.00 - $220,000.00
Pay Rate Type:
Salary
Compensation may vary based on the job level and your geographic work location. Relocation support is offered for eligible candidates.
This position is not eligible for sponsorship now or in the future, including through the OPT/STEM process.
Primary Accountabilities

  • Extensive knowledge and understanding of Guidewire PolicyCenter architecture, platform capabilities, and implementation best practices, including experience with upgrades, integrations, infrastructure optimization and scalability design."
  • Accountable for enterprise solution level architecture across technologies and platforms supporting a particular channel, line of business or enterprise function.
  • Designs, architects, develops, integrates, and tests architecture frameworks.
  • Develops architecture strategies (statements of position/direction, principles, reference architectures, etc.) that align to the company's business strategy and influence enterprise technology directions.
  • Researches, engineers, and integrates new solutions. Applies service-oriented architecture principles to meet the organization's integrity and availability requirements.
  • Performs issue resolution and triage, including determining scope, urgency, and potential impact. Makes recommendations that enable expeditious remediation.
  • Designs, develops, and maintens the enterprise architecture frameworks, systems and solutions.
  • Analyzes architecture portfolios (applications, information, and/or technology) to assess opportunities for improvement and identify changes needed to meet strategic business needs.
  • Develops policies, standards, and guidelines that direct the selection, development, implementation, and use of technology within the organization.
Specialized Knowledge & Skills Requirements
  • Demonstrated experience providing customer-driven solutions, support or service.
  • Demonstrated experience communicating and influencing at all levels of the organization from technical IT staff to business executives.
  • Demonstrated experience negotiating complex or contentious issues, reaching consensus, and working through people to achieve goals.
  • Demonstrated experience performing analysis related to technology strategy at an organizational level.
  • Extensive knowledge and understanding of enterprise architecture methods, artifacts, and tools.
  • Extensive knowledge and understanding of software engineering practices, system/software designs, and system deployments.
  • Solid knowledge and understanding of business strategy development, business architecture, and business models as they relate to technology strategy development.
  • Solid knowledge and understanding of enterprise architecture styles, including Service Oriented Architecture (SOA), web and mobile architectures, client/server architecture, business intelligence architectures, messaging and integration architectures, and legacy/mainframe architecture.
Licenses:
• Not Applicable.
Travel Requirements
• Up to 10%.
Physical Requirements
• Work that primarily involves sitting/standing.
Working Conditions
• Not Applicable.
Additional Information
  • To ensure a strong start, all employees participate in our New Employee Orientation during their first week. This experience is held in person at our Madison, WI Headquarters or one of our AmFam core locations to help you connect with our mission, meet key team members and build relationships that support your growth. At times, sessions may be delivered virtually based on scheduling and availability.
  • Offer to selected candidate will be made contingent on the results of applicable background checks
  • Offer to selected candidate is contingent on signing a non-disclosure agreement for proprietary information, trade secrets, and inventions
  • Sponsorship will not be considered for this position unless specified in the posting

We provide benefits that support your physical, emotional, and financial wellbeing. You will have access to comprehensive medical, dental, vision and wellbeing benefits that enable you to take care of your health. We also offer a competitive 401(k) contribution, a pension plan, an annual incentive, 9 paid holidays and a paid time off program (23 days accrued annually for full-time employees). In addition, our student loan repayment program and paid-family leave are available to support our employees and their families. Interns and contingent workers are not eligible for American Family Insurance Group benefits.
We are an equal opportunity employer. It is our policy to comply with all applicable federal, state and local laws pertaining to non-discrimination, non-harassment and equal opportunity. We also consider qualified applicants with criminal histories, consistent with applicable federal, state and local law.
American Family Insurance is committed to the full inclusion of all qualified individuals. If a reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and/or to receive other benefits and privileges of employment, please email AskHR@AmFam.com to request a reasonable accommodation.
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