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Mainframe Systems Programmer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Mainframe z/OS Systems Programmer

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$53 - $67.25/hr

Mainframe z/OS Systems Programmer Location: Atlanta, GA Work Model: Hybrid (3 Days Onsite / Week) Experience Required: 10+ Years *10+ years of experience in Mainframe Systems Programming. *Strong ...

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~

New

Sr. Mainframe Systems Programmer

New York, NY · On-site

$60.25 - $76.50/hr

We are seeking a Senior Mainframe Systems Programmer to join a collaborative team supporting Ericsson's IBM z/OS-based mainframe infrastructure. The team manages mainframe hardware and software ...

Z/OS Mainframe Systems Programmer

Anderson, SC · On-site

$50.25 - $64/hr

The Z/OS Mainframe Advanced Systems Programmer will be responsible for the analysis, development, modification, installation, testing and maintenance of operating systems software. This person needs ...

Mainframe Network System Engineer

Tampa, FL · On-site

$52 - $66.25/hr

... programmer; configure, implement, maintain, support host network definitions (VTAM, TCPIP etc.) for IBM/Kyndryl and IBM customer mainframe systems. * Provide Tier3 host network services support in ...

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Mainframe Systems Programmer information

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$10

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How much do mainframe systems programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for mainframe systems programmer in the United States is $58.18, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52.88 and $67.31 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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What states have the most Mainframe Systems Programmer jobs? States with the most job openings for Mainframe Systems Programmer jobs include:
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Infographic showing various Mainframe Systems Programmer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $121,006 per year, or $58.2 per hour.

Senior Mainframe Systems Programmer

West Advanced Technologies (WATI)

Downey, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 8 days ago


Job description

Senior Mainframe Systems Programmer
Downey, CA - (Onsite)
12+ months
Description:
The Senior Systems Programmer for Legacy Systems, for maintenance and support of Z/OS systems, is responsible for planning and upgrading the systems on a County-established basis, verifying the health of all systems, and making necessary changes as required. This includes analyzing the issues reported by development teams making necessary recommendations; planning and designing systems architecture; working with customers to test applications post-upgrade; ensuring software is compatible with operating systems; upgrading hardware in a timely manner with minimum downtime windows; evaluating new application software technologies; and/or ensuring that relevant security products are patched on a regular basis. The Senior Systems Programmer for Legacy Systems, for development of operating systems, is responsible for analyzing systems requirements, risks and costs; evaluating, selecting, verifying and validating systems software environments; evaluating, selecting and installing compilers, assemblers and utilities; integrating hardware and software components within systems environments; monitoring and fine-tuning performance of systems environments; evaluating new systems engineering technologies and subsequent effects on operating environments; and/or ensuring that information security/information assurance policies, principles and practices are integral elements of operating environments.
Required Skills:
A Senior Mainframe Systems Programmer is responsible for leading and/or supporting the most complex IT infrastructure, modification, installation, testing, implementation, maintenance and enhancements of new or existing system software products. This classification must plan, install, configure, test, implement and manage core system software products in support of the County's IT architecture and business needs. Special organizational or functional industry position titles for systems programmer include, but are not limited to, Z/OS System Administrator, MVS Systems Administrator, CICS/IMS/DB2/ADABAS Systems Programmer, and Z/OS Network and Storage Administrator. The following technology skill sets are required to perform in this classification -IBM: Z/.OS, IMS, DB2, ADABAS, SMP/E, JCL, IMS DB/DC, CICS, ACF2, ASSEMBLER/ COBOL/ REXX, CONTROL-M, VTAM, TCPIP, NETVIEW, NATURAL/ SUPERNAT, ENTIREX, CA SPOOL, IMS & DB2 BMC Tools, HMC/HOD/IODF, VTS
Must have a minimum of seven (7) years of experience in Z/OS Systems programming, with at least four (4) years of that experience in a lead role.
This classification requires the possession of a bachelor's degree in an IT-related or engineering field.
Regards
Sunil Damagalla
West Advanced Technologies, Inc
E: sunil.d@wati.com D: 279-666-5837