1

Mainframe Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Senior Mainframe COBOL Developer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$52.75 - $68/hr

We are Seeking a Senior Mainframe COBOL Developer with a strong background in enterprise financial systems. The ideal candidate will support mission-critical mainframe applications, troubleshoot ...

Sr Mainframe Technical Consultant

San Diego, CA

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

SYSVIEW, OPS/MVS, NetMaster, Mainframe Application Tuner, etc., that is, a specialist of the highest technical caliber. The senior consultant provides assistance and recommendations to management and ...

Sr Mainframe Technical Consultant

San Francisco, CA · On-site +1

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

SYSVIEW, OPS/MVS, NetMaster, Mainframe Application Tuner, etc., that is, a specialist of the highest technical caliber. The senior consultant provides assistance and recommendations to management and ...

Sr Mainframe Technical Consultant

Culver City, CA · On-site +1

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

SYSVIEW, OPS/MVS, NetMaster, Mainframe Application Tuner, etc., that is, a specialist of the highest technical caliber. The senior consultant provides assistance and recommendations to management and ...

Sr Mainframe Technical Consultant

Petaluma, CA

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

SYSVIEW, OPS/MVS, NetMaster, Mainframe Application Tuner, etc., that is, a specialist of the highest technical caliber. The senior consultant provides assistance and recommendations to management and ...

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

SYSVIEW, OPS/MVS, NetMaster, Mainframe Application Tuner, etc., that is, a specialist of the highest technical caliber. The senior consultant provides assistance and recommendations to management and ...

Sr Mainframe Technical Consultant

Los Angeles, CA · On-site +1

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

SYSVIEW, OPS/MVS, NetMaster, Mainframe Application Tuner, etc., that is, a specialist of the highest technical caliber. The senior consultant provides assistance and recommendations to management and ...

Sr Mainframe Technical Consultant

San Jose, CA

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

SYSVIEW, OPS/MVS, NetMaster, Mainframe Application Tuner, etc., that is, a specialist of the highest technical caliber. The senior consultant provides assistance and recommendations to management and ...

Showing results 21-40

Mainframe information

See California salary details

$9

$52

$71

How much do mainframe jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 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 is a mainframe?

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 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 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.

Is mainframe a good career option?

Mainframe careers involve working with large-scale computer systems used by many organizations for critical applications. The role typically requires knowledge of programming languages like COBOL, skills in system maintenance, and certifications such as IBM Certified System Programmer. It offers stable employment opportunities and competitive salaries due to the specialized skill set involved.

What are the most commonly searched types of Mainframe jobs in California?

The most popular types of Mainframe jobs in California 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:

Infographic showing various Mainframe job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 16% Contract. Highlights an 91% In-person, 4% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $109,572 per year, or $52.7 per hour.

Project Manager with Mainframe

West Advanced Technologies (WATI)

Clovis, CA • On-site

$48.75 - $62.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 17 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Project Manager with Mainframe exp
Position: Contractor (remote and onsite)
Location: Clovis, CA
Durations: 18+ months
Experience (minimum 5 years in the following):
• Enterprise Project Management experience with an emphasis on Mainframe modernization projects.
• Project experience with state or local government projects
• Experience with digital Property Tax systems from both a Tax Collector and an Assessor perspective
Essential Skills:
• Knowledge of converting Mainframe code to .Net language and Mainframe databases to SQL Server
• Experience with ServiceNow
• Proficiency with presenting regular status reports directly to executive leadership
• PMP Certified
Responsible for the following:
• Assisting County Project Management staff and an independent vendor in the execution of a mainframe modernization project to replatform the County's Property Information Management System into a .Net environment.
• Provide input during the design and architecture phases of the conversion project.
• Assist the county in review, testing, and acceptance tasks.
• Provide regular updates and status reports to executive staff and elected officials.
Client will not accept any applications of applicants with less than five years' experience in Project Management on Mainframe modernization projects. PMP Certification in good standing is required.
Regards
Naresh Damagalla
West Advanced Technologies, Inc
E: naresh.d@wati.com