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Mainframe Jobs in Rhode Island (NOW HIRING)

Mainframe Developer

Johnston, RI · On-site

$49.25 - $63.25/hr

ClifyX is seeking a Mainframe Developer with strong expertise in Mainframe and data masking. The role involves analyzing existing COBOL and JCL jobs, understanding VSAM and QSAM files, and ...

Mainframe Engineer

Smithfield, RI · On-site

$47 - $60.50/hr

Job Summary We are seeking a Mainframe Engineer to support client conversion and deconversion activities, data processing, internal conversion events, and application modernization initiatives. The ...

New

Mainframe Engineer

Smithfield, RI · On-site

$47 - $60.50/hr

REQUIREMENTS: * 8+ years of mainframe software development experience using Cobol, DB2, JCL, VSAM * Knowledge of SQL, File-aid, Eztrieve and SPUFI is preferred * Knowledge of Snaplogic, Snowflake and ...

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Mainframe information

See Rhode Island salary details

$9

$52

$70

How much do mainframe jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for mainframe in Rhode Island is $52.27, 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 Rhode Island? The most popular types of Mainframe jobs in Rhode Island are:
What are popular job titles related to Mainframe jobs in Rhode Island? For Mainframe jobs in Rhode Island, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Mainframe jobs in Rhode Island look for? The top searched job categories for Mainframe jobs in Rhode Island are:
Infographic showing various Mainframe job openings in Rhode Island as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 42% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 4% Temporary, and 43% Contract. Highlights an 87% In-person, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $108,729 per year, or $52.3 per hour.
Mainframe Developer

Mainframe Developer

ClifyX

Johnston, RI • On-site

$49.25 - $63.25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago


Job description

Job Summary:
ClifyX is seeking a Mainframe Developer with strong expertise in Mainframe and data masking. The role involves analyzing existing COBOL and JCL jobs, understanding VSAM and QSAM files, and collaborating with an offshore team to implement K2View solutions.
Responsibilities:
• At least 10+ Years of experience as Mainframe Developer
• Should be able to analyze existing COBOL and JCL Jobs
• Should have experience or exposure to Test Data Masking
• Should be able to understand the VSAM and QSAM files on Mainframe
• Should be able to rewrite the COBOL/JCL Jobs tor K2View implementation
• Should have experience on complex data sets and copy books
• Should be able to understand and configure schedulers in Mainframe
• Should have experience in working with offshore team
• Knowledge of Agile methodology, sprint planning, PI planning
• Understanding of test management process and SDLC/STLC
• Excellent soft skills
Qualifications:
Required:
• At least 10+ Years of experience as Mainframe Developer
• Should be able to analyze existing COBOL and JCL Jobs
• Should have experience or exposure to Test Data Masking
• Should be able to understand the VSAM and QSAM files on Mainframe
• Should be able to rewrite the COBOL/JCL Jobs for K2View implementation
• Should have experience on complex data sets and copy books
• Should be able to understand and configure schedulers in Mainframe
• Should have experience in working with offshore team
• Knowledge of Agile methodology, sprint planning, PI planning
• Understanding of test management process and SDLC/STLC
• Excellent soft skills
Company:
ClifyX provides innovative business solutions which satisfy requirements for mission-critical reliability, scalability, interoperations. Founded in 1998, the company is headquartered in South Plainfield, USA, with a team of 501-1000 employees. The company is currently Late Stage.

ClifyX logo

About ClifyX

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

ClifyX is a well-established player in the IT Services sector that specializes in providing result-oriented technological solutions to a wide range of industrial verticals. Based in South Plainfield, New Jersey, ClifyX offers a comprehensive selection of IT services that include project staffing, application development, professional consulting, and other IT-based solutions. While the company's website, clifyx.com, does not divulge the exact founding date, it is clear that ClifyX has grown into a renowned name within their domain, thanks to their unwavering commitment to innovative practices. The company's mission statement revolves around harnessing the power of technology to assist their clientele in steering their respective businesses towards success.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

South Plainfield, NJ, US

Year founded

1998