1

Mainframe Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Mainframe Developer

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$51.25 - $65.75/hr

Mainframe Developer Descriptions: "Extensive work with sequential files • Strong technical knowledge and skills in Cobol, DB2 , JCL, VSAM • Adept with agile software development lifecycle and ...

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 Engineer

Saint Paul, MN · On-site

$49.50 - $63.75/hr

Job#: 3039972 Mainframe Engineer Location: Saint Paul, Minnesota (Hybrid) Role Overview An experienced IMS & DB2 Mainframe Engineer is sought to support a mainframe exit program. This role is central ...

Requirement/Must Have: * 8+ years of IBM Mainframe development experience. * Strong expertise in COBOL, JCL, DB2, CICS. * Experience with Zeke, File Manager, Abend-Aid, SPUFI, SORT, ICETOOL.

Mainframe Developer

Bloomington, MN

$49.25 - $63.25/hr

... talented Mainframe Developer for a 1 YEAR project in Bloomington, MN, United States. Qualifications Required skills: COBOL CICS DB2 Additional Information All your information will be kept ...

Minimum 4+ years of hands on experience in testing and leading mainframe projects. * Knowledge of brokerage and banking domain. * Experience and desire to work in a management consulting environment ...

Minimum 4+ years of hands on experience in testing and leading mainframe projects. * Knowledge of brokerage and banking domain. * Analytical and Communication skills. * Planning and Co-ordination ...

Leading a team of 6+ resources in planning and executing the testing for Mainframe projects. Ability to co-ordinate with cross commit teams, vendor partners, development teams and business teams for ...

Leading a team of 6+ resources in planning and executing the testing for Mainframe projects. Ability to co-ordinate with cross commit teams, vendor partners, development teams and business teams for ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Mainframe information

See Minnesota salary details

$9

$52

$70

How much do mainframe jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for mainframe in Minnesota is $52.28, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46.15 and $59.33 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the average salary for mainframe jobs?

The average salary for mainframe professionals typically ranges from $70,000 to $120,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Senior roles or specialized skills in mainframe environments, such as COBOL or JCL, can command higher salaries. Many positions also offer benefits like retirement plans and training opportunities.

What jobs in the US pay 300,000 a year?

Mainframe professionals such as senior systems architects, lead developers, and IT managers with extensive experience and specialized skills can earn $300,000 or more annually. These roles often require expertise in mainframe technologies like COBOL, JCL, and mainframe security, along with certifications and leadership responsibilities.

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.

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, system administration, and understanding of legacy systems, with steady demand in finance, government, and large enterprises. It can be a stable career with opportunities for specialization and certification but may require ongoing learning of evolving technologies.

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.

Can AI replace mainframe?

Mainframe professionals work with large-scale, mission-critical systems that require specialized skills in legacy technologies, security, and data management. While AI can automate certain tasks like data analysis and system monitoring, it is unlikely to fully replace mainframe roles due to the complexity and reliability requirements of mainframe environments. Instead, AI tools are often integrated to enhance efficiency and support mainframe operations.

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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Mainframe jobs in Minnesota? The most popular types of Mainframe jobs in Minnesota are:
What are popular job titles related to Mainframe jobs in Minnesota? For Mainframe jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Mainframe jobs in Minnesota look for? The top searched job categories for Mainframe jobs in Minnesota are:
What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Mainframe jobs? Cities in Minnesota with the most Mainframe job openings:
Infographic showing various Mainframe job openings in Minnesota as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $108,740 per year, or $52.3 per hour.
Mainframe Architect

Other

Posted 2 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Mainframe Architect

Location: Saint Paul, MN (Onsite)

Type: Contract

Duration: Long Term

Job Description:

  • Mainframe - PL/1, COBOL, CICS, IMS/DB2, JCL

Key Responsibilities:

  • Drives application segregation, pattern identification, and complexity/health assessment
  • Defines APR/TIME analysis and R-lane disposition for each application
  • Owns the end-to-end modernization roadmap and wave-based transformation plan

Required qualifications, capabilities, and skills:

  1. Strong experience in mainframe architecture and application pattern/component identification - PL/1, COBOL, CICS, IMS/DB2, JCL
  2. Proven expertise in application sizing, complexity scoring, and business/technical health assessment for large mainframe portfolios
  3. Demonstrated skill in APR/TIME analysis and R-lane disposition methodology
  4. Strong track record in target-state architecture and wave-based roadmap design for legacy-to-cloud modernization