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Mainframe Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Sonsoft Inc

Mainframe Consultant

Irwindale, CA · On-site

At least 5 years of experience in Mainframe Technologies (COBOL, CICS, JCL, DB2) * At least 5 years of experience in handling reports and file systems in Mainframe * At least 3 years of experience in ...

Sonsoft Inc

Mainframe Consultant

Irwindale, CA · On-site

At least 5 years of experience in Mainframe Technologies (COBOL, CICS, JCL, DB2) * At least 5 years of experience in handling reports and file systems in Mainframe * At least 3 years of experience in ...

Deloitte

Mainframe Developer

San Francisco, CA · Hybrid

$57.75 - $74.25/hr

As an experienced Mainframe Developer ,you will have the ability to share new ideas and collaborate on projects as a consultant without the extensive demands of travel. The Project Delivery Talent ...

Deloitte

Mainframe Developer

Costa Mesa, CA · Hybrid

$52.50 - $67.50/hr

As an experienced Mainframe Developer ,you will have the ability to share new ideas and collaborate on projects as a consultant without the extensive demands of travel. The Project Delivery Talent ...

Deloitte

Mainframe Developer

San Jose, CA · Hybrid

$57.50 - $73.75/hr

As an experienced Mainframe Developer ,you will have the ability to share new ideas and collaborate on projects as a consultant without the extensive demands of travel. The Project Delivery Talent ...

Deloitte

Mainframe Developer

Sacramento, CA · Hybrid

$52.25 - $67.25/hr

As an experienced Mainframe Developer ,you will have the ability to share new ideas and collaborate on projects as a consultant without the extensive demands of travel. The Project Delivery Talent ...

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Mainframe information

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$9

$52

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How much do mainframe jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for mainframe in California is $52.68, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46.49 and $59.81 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Mainframe Developer, and why are they important?

To excel as a Mainframe Developer, a strong background in COBOL, JCL, mainframe operating systems (like z/OS), and database management is essential, often supported by a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with tools such as IBM DB2, CICS, VSAM, and mainframe version control systems is typically required, and certifications like IBM Certified System Programmer can be advantageous. Analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are important soft skills for identifying issues and collaborating with cross-functional teams. These skills ensure reliable maintenance, development, and modernization of mission-critical legacy systems that support large-scale business operations.

What Is a Mainframe Application Developer Job Description?

The job description of a mainframe application developer is to sustain the central data processing system, or mainframe. Common duties include designing applications, analyzing data, running reports, and deploying mainframe applications. This job requires a great deal of collaboration to keep the mainframe going and a strong understanding of mainframe languages. A key part of this role is to align the design of the mainframe with changing business needs.

What are mainframes and what do they do?

Mainframes are powerful computers used mainly by large organizations for critical applications, bulk data processing, large-scale transaction processing, and enterprise resource planning. They are known for their reliability, scalability, and security, making them essential for industries like banking, healthcare, and government. Mainframes can handle thousands of users and transactions simultaneously, supporting the core operations of many businesses.

What are some typical challenges faced by mainframe professionals when integrating legacy systems with modern technologies?

Mainframe professionals often encounter challenges when integrating legacy systems with newer technologies, such as ensuring data compatibility, managing security protocols, and minimizing downtime during migration. These tasks require a deep understanding of both the existing mainframe architecture and the modern platforms being introduced. Collaboration with cross-functional teams—including application developers, security specialists, and project managers—is essential to ensure seamless integration and to address potential issues proactively. Staying updated on the latest integration tools and best practices also helps in overcoming these challenges efficiently.

What is the difference between Mainframe vs Mainframe Developer?

AspectMainframeMainframe Developer
Primary RoleMaintains and manages mainframe hardware and systemsDesigns, develops, and tests mainframe applications
Skills & CertificationsKnowledge of mainframe hardware, OS, and basic scriptingProficiency in COBOL, JCL, and mainframe programming languages
Work EnvironmentData centers, enterprise IT departmentsDevelopment teams within mainframe environments
Industry UsageUsed by organizations with legacy systemsDevelops and maintains those legacy systems

While Mainframe professionals focus on maintaining the hardware and system infrastructure, Mainframe Developers specialize in creating and updating mainframe applications. Both roles require knowledge of mainframe environments, but their responsibilities differ significantly within the same industry.

More about Mainframe jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Mainframe jobs in California? The most popular types of Mainframe jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Mainframe jobs in California? For Mainframe jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Mainframe jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Mainframe jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Mainframe jobs? Cities in California with the most Mainframe job openings:
Mainframe jobs near you
Infographic showing various Mainframe job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 59% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 38% Contract. Highlights an 79% In-person, 7% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $109,572 per year, or $52.7 per hour.
Mainframe Operator

Mainframe Operator

West Advanced Technologies (WATI)

Downey, CA • On-site

$50.75 - $65/hr

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

Position: Mainframe Operator
Location: Downey, CA
Duration: 12 months
Description:
The Information Technology Mainframe Operator works under the direction of an Information Technology Systems Operations Supervisor who manages and oversees all aspects of work for the IBM mainframe systems. The Information Technology Mainframe Operator starts and stops system tasks, monitors the system consoles for unusual conditions, and works with the system programming and production control staff to ensure the health and normal operation of the systems. The Information Technology Mainframe Operator is also responsible for starting and stopping the major subsystems, such as transaction processing systems, database systems, and the operating system itself. These "restart operations" include performing an orderly shutdown and startup of the system and its workloads when it is required. The Information Technology Mainframe Operator communicates with system programmers, who assist the operator in determining the proper course of action, and with the production control analyst, who works with the operator to make sure that production workloads are completing properly.
Skills Required:
The Information Technology Mainframe Operator will possess knowledge in decision making; organizational awareness; problem solving; oral communication and writing skills. The following technology skill sets are required to perform in this classification: IBM, Z/OS, CICS, NATURAL/SUPERNAT, IMS, DB2, ADABAS, ACF2, ENTIREX, SMP/E, ASSEMBLER/COBOL/REXX, CA SPOOL, JCL, CONTROL-M, IMS & DB2 BMC Tools, IMS DB/DC, VTAM, TCPIP, NETVIEW, HMC/HOD/IODF, Tivoli, MVM, JES2, ESF, Linux, Unix, p-Series, z-Series, & VTS.
Must have a minimum of five (5) years of experience as a mainframe operator, with at least two (2) years of that experience in operating and administering IBM System p-Series/z-Series platform. In addition, one (1) year of experience of operating on automation of system monitoring and maintenance procedures and experience in ITM System Monitoring or similar role.
Bachelor's degree in an IT-related and/or equivalent in mainframe operations field.
Skills/Exp Preferred:
1. Unix scripting
2. PL/SQL
3. Bash scripting
4. Automation
5. Operation System: AIX
6. Cobol
Regards,
Sangeetha
West Advanced Technologies, Inc.
Serving government agencies for 22 Years
E: sangeetha.p@wati.com, D: 279 895 6797
www.wati.com

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