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Mainframe Tester Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Testing strategies * Deployment roadmaps * Communicate architecture, schedules, and implementation plans * Coordinate across cross-functional teams Must-Have Technical Skills * Mainframe Application ...

Testing strategies * Deployment roadmaps * Communicate architecture, schedules, and implementation plans * Coordinate across cross-functional teams Must-Have Technical Skills * Mainframe Application ...

Testing strategies * Deployment roadmaps * Communicate architecture, schedules, and implementation plans * Coordinate across cross-functional teams Must-Have Technical Skills * Mainframe Application ...

Testing strategies * Deployment roadmaps * Communicate architecture, schedules, and implementation plans * Coordinate across cross-functional teams Must-Have Technical Skills * Mainframe Application ...

Mainframe Assembler

Wilmington, DE · On-site

$47.50 - $61/hr

Mainframe assemblers are responsible for designing, coding, and testing application programs using the IBM Assembler language. They should also be familiar with the entire Software Development Life ...

Mainframe Assembler

Wilmington, DE · On-site

$47.50 - $61/hr

RTTO 5 Days Onsite Design, coding, and testing: Mainframe assemblers are responsible for designing, coding, and testing application programs using the IBM Assembler language. They should also be ...

Client is not looking for a Mainframe developer or Tester. The resource is expected to have extensive knowledge and experience working on Mainframe mainly on administration of Mainframe as a platform.

Mainframe Developer

Mclean, VA · On-site

$49.50 - $63.75/hr

Position: Mainframe Developer (Banking Domain) Location: McLean, VA (Onsite, 5 days/week) Note ... unit testing, integration testing, and production support Troubleshoot production issues and ...

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How much do mainframe tester jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for mainframe tester in the United States is $43.50, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $33.41 and $52.40 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

Is mainframe testing difficult?

Mainframe testing can be complex due to the legacy systems, specialized tools, and programming languages involved. It requires attention to detail, understanding of mainframe environments, and often knowledge of testing automation and scripting. While challenging, proper training and experience can make it manageable for testers.

What is a Mainframe Tester job?

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.

Can mainframe be replaced by AI?

Mainframe testers work with legacy systems that often require specialized knowledge of mainframe environments, programming languages, and testing tools. While AI can assist in automating certain testing tasks and improving efficiency, it is unlikely to fully replace mainframe testers due to the complexity and critical nature of mainframe systems. Human expertise remains essential for designing tests, interpreting results, and managing system-specific issues.

Is mainframe in demand?

Mainframe testing remains in demand due to the continued use of legacy systems in industries like finance and government. Skilled testers with knowledge of mainframe environments, COBOL, and testing tools are sought after to ensure system reliability and security.

How to be a mainframe tester?

To become a mainframe tester, you should have a strong understanding of mainframe environments, including COBOL, JCL, and DB2, along with experience in software testing and quality assurance. Gaining certifications such as IBM Certified Mainframe Application Developer can enhance your credentials, and familiarity with testing tools like CA Test Data Manager or IBM Rational Test Workbench is beneficial. Developing skills in scripting, debugging, and working within mainframe operating systems is essential for success in this role.
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What cities are hiring for Mainframe Tester jobs? Cities with the most Mainframe Tester job openings:
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Infographic showing various Mainframe Tester job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 32% Full Time, and 68% Contract. Highlights an 90% In-person, 5% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $90,490 per year, or $43.5 per hour.
Mainframe Modernization & CI/CD Transformation Lead-Hybrid

Mainframe Modernization & CI/CD Transformation Lead-Hybrid

NTT DATA Services

Mckinney, TX

$136K - $227K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago


NTT Data rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 92 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

107th of 210 rated it services


Job description

Req ID: 376815 

NTT DATA strives to hire exceptional, innovative and passionate individuals who want to grow with us. If you want to be part of an inclusive, adaptable, and forward-thinking organization, apply now.

We are currently seeking a Mainframe Modernization & CI/CD Transformation Lead-Hybrid to join our team in McKinney, Texas (US-TX), United States (US).

Mainframe Modernization & CI/CD Transformation Lead


Role Overview

We are seeking a seasoned Mainframe Transformation leader to drive the standardization and modernization of developer tooling, CI/CD pipelines, and engineering practices as part of the transition from z/VSE to z/OS.

This role will define and implement a target-state developer ecosystem, bringing consistency across disparate mainframe systems and enabling modern DevOps practices aligned with enterprise standards.


Key Responsibilities

  • Target State Definition
    • Define and establish a future-state mainframe development ecosystem aligned to GitHub, VS Code, and modern CI/CD practices
    • Standardize tools, platforms, and processes across multiple mainframe environments
  • CI/CD & DevOps Transformation
    • Design and implement end-to-end CI/CD pipelines for z/OS applications leveraging tools such as GitHub, IBM DBB, and Wazi Deploy
    • Enable integration with modern developer tools (VS Code, Z Open Editor, Zowe)
  • Tools Strategy & Rationalization
    • Evaluate and rationalize existing mainframe tools
    • Drive adoption of standardized tooling stack (e.g., GitHub, Z Open Editor, debugging, testing, and analysis tools)
    • Establish best practices for code management, scanning, testing, and deployment
  • Engineering Experience Modernization
    • Improve developer productivity and experience through modern IDEs, automation, and AI-assisted development tools
    • Enable shift from legacy (Eclipse/Endevor-based) environments to modern toolchains
  • Change Management & Adoption
    • Drive organizational change management across mainframe teams
    • Lead training, communication, and onboarding for new tools and processes
    • Ensure adoption of standardized development practices
  • Collaboration & Governance
    • Work closely with mainframe SMEs, application teams, infrastructure, and transformation leadership
    • Establish governance, standards, and guardrails for consistent execution

Key Outcomes Expected

  • Standardized mainframe developer toolchain across platforms
  • Fully operational CI/CD pipelines for z/OS workloads
  • Improved developer productivity and onboarding simplicity
  • Reduced tool fragmentation and increased engineering consistency
  • Accelerated modernization and readiness for future enhancements (AI, automation, etc.)

Preferred Skills & Experience

  • 12+ years experience in Mainframe (z/OS, z/VSE migration experience preferred)
  • Deep expertise in:
    • Mainframe development (COBOL, JCL, PL/I)
    • Modern DevOps practices and CI/CD implementation
    • Tools such as GitHub, Jenkins/CI tools, IBM DBB, Zowe, VS Code / Z Open Editor
  • Experience driving large-scale toolchain transformation and standardization
  • Strong understanding of mainframe testing, debugging, and performance analysis tools
  • Proven ability to lead change management and adoption across distributed teams

Preferred Experience

  • Experience with IBM Application Delivery Foundation (ADFz) or similar toolsets
  • Exposure to AI-assisted development tools (e.g., GitHub Copilot, IBM Bob)
  • Experience in regulated industries (insurance, financial services)

Basic Qualifications 

Minimum 8 years Mainframe-IBM Mainframe-z/OS experience

NTT DATA provides a reasonable range of compensation for U.S.-based positions. The starting pay range for this role is $136,275-$227,125. Actual compensation will depend on a number of factors, including the candidate’s relevant experience, technical skills, and other qualifications. 

This position may also be eligible for incentive compensation based on individual and/or company performance. 

This position is eligible for company benefits including medical, dental, and vision insurance with an employer contribution, flexible spending or health savings account, life and AD&D insurance, short and long term disability coverage, paid time off, employee assistance, participation in a 401k program with company match, and additional voluntary or legally-required benefits.

About NTT DATA

NTT DATA is a $30 billion business and technology services leader, serving 75% of the Fortune Global 100. We are committed to accelerating client success and positively impacting society through responsible innovation. We are one of the world's leading AI and digital infrastructure providers, with unmatched capabilities in enterprise-scale AI, cloud, security, connectivity, data centers and application services. our consulting and Industry solutions help organizations and society move confidently and sustainably into the digital future. As a Global Top Employer, we have experts in more than 50 countries. We also offer clients access to a robust ecosystem of innovation centers as well as established and start-up partners. NTT DATA is a part of NTT Group, which invests over $3 billion each year in R&D.

Whenever possible, we hire locally to NTT DATA offices or client sites. This ensures we can provide timely and effective support tailored to each client’s needs. While many positions offer remote or hybrid work options, these arrangements are subject to change based on client requirements. For employees near an NTT DATA office or client site, in-office attendance may be required for meetings or events, depending on business needs. At NTT DATA, we are committed to staying flexible and meeting the evolving needs of both our clients and employees. NTT DATA recruiters will never ask for payment or banking information and will only use @nttdata.com, @nttdatafed.com and @talent.nttdataservices.com email addresses. If you are requested to provide payment or disclose banking information, please submit a contact us form, https://us.nttdata.com/en/contact-us.

NTT DATA endeavors to make https://us.nttdata.com accessible to any and all users. If you would like to contact us regarding the accessibility of our website or need assistance completing the application process, please contact us at https://us.nttdata.com/en/contact-us. This contact information is for accommodation requests only and cannot be used to inquire about the status of applications. NTT DATA is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. For our EEO Policy Statement, please click here. If you'd like more information on your EEO rights under the law, please click here. For Pay Transparency information, please click here.


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About NTT DATA

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

NTT DATA Services is a global business and IT services provider specializing in digital, cloud and automation across a comprehensive portfolio of consulting, applications, infrastructure and business process services. We are part of the NTT family of companies, a partner to 85 % of the Fortune 100.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Plano, TX, US

Year founded

1967