1

Mainframe Tester Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Participate in Disaster Recovery (DR) planning, testing, and recovery exercises to ensure business continuity and platform resiliency. * Manage and support mainframe hardware, coupling facilities ...

In this role, you will be a key member of the development team and will focus on building, testing, and supporting leading edge Mainframe Database solutions used by many of the world's largest ...

In this role, you will be a key member of the development team and will focus on building, testing, and supporting leading edge Mainframe Database solutions used by many of the world's largest ...

R&D Software Engineer

San Jose, CA ยท On-site

$91 - $146/hr

In this role, you will be a key member of the development team and will focus on building, testing, and supporting leading edge Mainframe Database solutions used by many of the world's largest ...

Showing results 41-60

Mainframe Tester information

See California salary details

$18

$42

$69

How much do mainframe tester jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for mainframe tester in California is $42.94, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $32.98 and $51.73 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a mainframe tester?

A Mainframe Tester is responsible for testing applications running on mainframe systems to ensure their functionality, reliability, and security. They create and execute test cases, validate data processing, and identify defects in mainframe applications. They work with technologies like COBOL, JCL, DB2, and CICS to test batch and online processes. Their role is critical in industries like banking, insurance, and healthcare, where mainframes handle large-scale transaction processing. The tester collaborates with developers and business analysts to ensure the applications meet business requirements.

What are the typical responsibilities and daily tasks of a mainframe tester?

Mainframe Testers are primarily responsible for designing, developing, and executing test cases on mainframe applications to ensure their accuracy and performance. On a daily basis, you might review requirements, create test data, identify defects, and work closely with developers to resolve coding issues. The role often involves collaborating with business analysts and system architects to understand the application's functionality and ensure compliance with business and technical standards. Mainframe Testers frequently use specialized testing tools and may participate in both manual and automated testing cycles. This collaborative and detail-oriented environment helps ensure high-quality and reliable mainframe systems for the organization.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the mainframe tester position, and why are they important?

A Mainframe Tester needs strong analytical abilities, proficiency in mainframe environments (such as IBM z/OS), and knowledge of programming languages like COBOL, JCL, and SQL, often supported by a degree in computer science or a related field. Experience with test automation tools (e.g., IBM Rational, CA tools), debugging utilities, and relevant certifications like ISTQB can be highly beneficial. Excellent problem-solving skills, attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication help testers excel in cross-functional teams. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring reliability, compliance, and performance of mission-critical mainframe systems in large organizations.

What job categories do people searching Mainframe Tester jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Mainframe Tester jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Mainframe Tester jobs?

Cities in California with the most Mainframe Tester job openings:

Infographic showing various Mainframe Tester job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 57% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 41% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $89,305 per year, or $42.9 per hour.

Mainframe Micro Focus COBOL /Net COBOL Developer

First Soft Solutions

Irvine, CA โ€ข On-site

$54 - $73/hr

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Mainframe Micro Focus COBOL /Net COBOL Developer
Location: Irvine, CA (Onsite)
Duration: 12+ Months
Job Description
We are seeking an experienced Net COBOL / Micro Focus COBOL Developer to join our team in Irvine, CA. The ideal candidate will have strong expertise in COBOL development, SQL, and Unix/Linux environments, along with excellent analytical and problem-solving skills. The candidate will be responsible for supporting, enhancing, and maintaining enterprise applications while collaborating with cross-functional teams to deliver high-quality solutions.
Key Responsibilities
  • Develop, maintain, and enhance applications using Micro Focus COBOL / Net COBOL.
  • Analyze business and technical requirements and translate them into effective solutions.
  • Design, develop, and optimize SQL queries, stored procedures, and database interactions.
  • Work in Unix/Linux environments for application deployment, troubleshooting, and support.
  • Perform code reviews, debugging, and issue resolution to ensure application stability and performance.
  • Collaborate with business analysts, architects, and other development teams throughout the software development lifecycle.
  • Participate in system testing, integration testing, and production support activities.
  • Document technical designs, processes, and development standards.

Required Skills
  • 8-10 years of experience in application development and support.
  • Strong hands-on experience with Micro Focus COBOL / Net COBOL.
  • Proficiency in SQL and relational databases.
  • Experience working in Unix/Linux environments.
  • Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills.
  • Experience in application maintenance, enhancements, and production support.
  • Ability to work effectively in an onsite and collaborative environment.

Preferred Skills
  • Experience with Microsoft SQL Server 2016.
  • Knowledge of IBM System z / Enterprise COBOL.
  • Experience with legacy system modernization and migration projects.
  • Familiarity with software development best practices and SDLC methodologies.

Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Engineering, or a related field.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.

First Soft Solutions logo

About First Soft Solutions

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

First Soft Solutions custom application Development and Maintenance Services are designed to enable you to lower the total cost of ownership and the required quality for your application. While all application Development Outsourcing is Technically custom, The difference is that packaged applications were designed with a general set of features to be used by a broad range of users. Custom application development is capable of producing practically any feature you may desire for your site. Time and money are virtually the only limiting factors. Our goal is to provide Clients with the Solution that fits their specific and unique needs while giving them the knowledge they need to operate and maintain the New Systems and Software. Our allegiance is to the best solution for our Clients. Our experience and knowledgeable consultants are ready to go above and beyond expectations to assist you in obtaining your goals. We can also provides expert project management throughout the entire project life cycle.

Industry

It services

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

East Brunswick, NJ, US

Year founded

2006