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Mainframe Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Mainframe Developer

Peoria, IL · On-site

$48 - $61.75/hr

Mainframe Developer Location: Peoria, IL (Onsite) Contract (W2) We are looking for an experienced Mainframe Developer with strong expertise in COBOL, JCL, DB2, and Mainframe Scheduling. The ideal ...

New

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 Specialist

Chicago, IL · On-site

$70K - $196K/yr

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 ...

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

Mainframe Developer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$50.50 - $65/hr

Mainframe Developer Location: Atlanta, GA / Vienna, VA / Chicago, IL - First Preference Position Overview We are seeking an experienced Mainframe Developer with 12-15 years of experience in COBOL ...

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:

Mainframe Support Engineer

Maryville, IL · On-site

$45.75 - $59/hr

We are seeking a Mainframe Support Engineer to provide L2/L3 production support for enterprise mainframe applications. The ideal candidate will have strong experience with COBOL, DB2, VSAM, Batch ...

Mainframe Support Engineer

Millstadt, IL · On-site

$47.50 - $61.25/hr

We are seeking a Mainframe Support Engineer to provide L2/L3 production support for enterprise mainframe applications. The ideal candidate will have strong experience with COBOL, DB2, VSAM, Batch ...

Mainframe Support Engineer

Caseyville, IL · On-site

$45.25 - $58.25/hr

We are seeking a Mainframe Support Engineer to provide L2/L3 production support for enterprise mainframe applications. The ideal candidate will have strong experience with COBOL, DB2, VSAM, Batch ...

Mainframe Support Engineer

Hartford, IL · On-site

$46.25 - $59.50/hr

We are seeking a Mainframe Support Engineer to provide L2/L3 production support for enterprise mainframe applications. The ideal candidate will have strong experience with COBOL, DB2, VSAM, Batch ...

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Mainframe information

See Illinois salary details

$9

$51

$70

How much do mainframe jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 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 62% Full Time, and 38% Contract. Highlights an 75% In-person, and 25% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $107,587 per year, or $51.7 per hour.

Mainframe Developer

Hexacorp

Peoria, IL • On-site

$48 - $61.75/hr

Other

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description

Title: Mainframe Developer
Location: Peoria, IL (Onsite)
Contract (W2)

 

Job Description

We are looking for an experienced Mainframe Developer with strong expertise in COBOL, JCL, DB2, and Mainframe Scheduling. The ideal candidate should have hands-on experience developing, maintaining, and supporting mainframe applications in an enterprise environment.

 

Required Skills

  • Expert-level experience with COBOL
  • Expert-level experience with JCL
  • Expert-level experience with DB2
  • Expert-level knowledge of Mainframe Schedulers
  • Working knowledge of IMS DB, IMS DC, SAS
  • Strong troubleshooting, debugging, and problem-solving skills
  • Ability to work effectively in a team environment