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Mainframe Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Mainframe Developer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$50.50 - $65/hr

MAINFRAME DEVELOPER Location: Chicago, IL (Full Onsite, Open to Relocating Candidates) Visa: Any visa except H1B We're looking for a Mainframe Developer to join our team! If you're experienced with ...

Mainframe Developer

Peoria, IL · On-site

$48 - $61.75/hr

Mainframe Developer Location: Peoria, IL Must Relocate Openings: 2 Required Skills: * COBOL Expert * JCL Expert * DB2 Expert * Mainframe Scheduler Expert * IMS DB Working knowledge strongly preferred

About the Role Are you a seasoned Mainframe Specialist with deep, hands-on command of COBOL, JCL, VSAM, CICS, DB2, Assembler, REXX, SPUFI, TSO/ISPF, and RACF? We are looking for exceptional talent to ...

Senior Mainframe Architect

Chicago, IL · On-site

$112.72 - $146.54/hr

Technology|Mainframe Technologies|Mainframe Technologies- ALL Technical Skills 2 Technology|Mainframe Technologies|COBOL Technical Skills 3 Technology|Infrastructure-Mainframes|DB2 Applications ...

Mainframe Developer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$50.50 - $65/hr

Mainframe Developer (12+ YEARS) Location: Chicago, IL * Required Years of Experience: At least 12+ years of relevant experience * 12+ years of experience as a Mainframe Developer Required Skills:

Preferred At least 6 years of relevant experience with mainframe- PL/1 language, JCL, and DB2 database At least 6 years of experience in software development life cycle. At leave 4 years of ...

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 ...

Required Skill and Experience • Experience working as a Mainframes Architect on large scale enterprise modernization programs. • Lead assessment of legacy mainframe applications, batch workloads ...

Experience with Mainframe technologies including PL/1, IMSDB, DB2, and JCL. * Strong understanding of Health Insurance (Individual/Non-Group). * Experience in both development and production support ...

Mainframe/Cobol developer

Bloomington, IL · On-site

$47 - $60.50/hr

Mainframe/Cobol developer * Resource needed with industry knowledge/experience of IBM's Rational Asset Analyzer (RAA) tool. * Preferable, but not mandatory is additional knowledge/experience of ...

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Mainframe information

See Illinois salary details

$9

$51

$70

How much do mainframe jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for mainframe in Illinois is $51.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45.67 and $58.70 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 Illinois?

The most popular types of Mainframe jobs in Illinois are:

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

The top searched job categories for Mainframe jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Mainframe jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Mainframe job openings:

Infographic showing various Mainframe job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 36% Full Time, and 64% Contract. Highlights an 83% In-person, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $107,587 per year, or $51.7 per hour.

Mainframe Developer

Chicago, IL • On-site

Kanak Elite Services Inc
Software Development • 51 - 200 employees

$50.50 - $65/hr

Contractor

Re-posted 16 days ago


Job description

Role: MAINFRAME DEVELOPER

Location: Chicago, IL (Full Onsite, Open to Relocating Candidates)

Visa: Any visa except H1B
We're looking for a Mainframe Developer to join our team! If you're experienced with mainframe technologies and meet the requirements below, we'd love to connect.
What we're looking for:
·      12+ years working with Mainframe technologies
·      Strong experience in NAT/ADABAS
·      COBOL, CICS, DB2, JCL, CA7
·      Financial industry experience is a bonus
 

Thanks & Regards,

Technical Recruiter

Anjali Sonkar

Email : Anjali08@kanakits.com