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Mainframe Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Senior Mainframe Engineer Location: remote Pay rate: open to W2 and established 1099s Position type: multiyear contract We are currently seeking a Senior Mainframe Programmer/Support Analyst with a ...

Analytica is seeking a remote z/OS Mainframe Programmer to support a long standing federal government project. The candidate will be responsible for designing and implementing dynamic solutions.

Sr Mainframe Developer / Support

Mclean, VA · On-site

$49.50 - $63.75/hr

Experience in mainframe systems Experience in Application Support Strong communication skills A minimum 8 - 10 years of systems analysis/application development experience Background in development ...

Analytica is seeking a remote z/OS Mainframe Programmer to support a long standing federal government project. The candidate will be responsible for designing and implementing dynamic solutions.

Analytica is seeking a remote  z/OS Mainframe Programmer  to support a long standing federal government project. The candidate will be responsible for designing and implementing dynamic solutions.

Mainframe - HOGAN

Washington, DC

$55.50 - $71.25/hr

Mainframe - HOGAN Tech Lead Washington DC Good programming experience in COBOL, JCL, VSAM At least 3 years' experience on Hogan Core Banking Platform Design, code, new programs for online and batch ...

Mainframe - HOGAN

Washington, DC · On-site

$55.50 - $71.25/hr

Company Description Mainframe - HOGAN Tech Lead Washington DC Good programming experience in COBOL, JCL, VSAM At least 3 years' experience on Hogan Core Banking Platform Design, code, new programs ...

Mainframe Tester Location: Mclean VA and Alpharetta, GA No of Positions: 2 Position type: Contract/C2C Interview Process : Written Test + 1 Skype/in person Interview (Hence Look only Locals- VA) We ...

Mainframe Computer Operator Client is seeking to hire a contract Mainframe Computer Operator. This position at the Annapolis works during the third shift from the hours of 11:30pm - 8:00am and will ...

Showing results 21-40

Mainframe information

See Washington salary details

$11

$60

$81

How much do mainframe jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for mainframe in Washington is $60.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53.37 and $68.61 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 Washington?

The most popular types of Mainframe jobs in Washington are:

What are popular job titles related to Mainframe jobs in Washington?

For Mainframe jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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

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

What cities in Washington are hiring for Mainframe jobs?

Cities in Washington with the most Mainframe job openings:

Infographic showing various Mainframe job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 46% Full Time, 5% Temporary, and 49% Contract. Highlights an 85% In-person, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $125,748 per year, or $60.5 per hour.

Mainframe Infra Engineer (z/OS) - Only W2

Saransh Inc

Mclean, VA • On-site

$49.50 - $63.75/hr

Contractor

Re-posted 22 days ago


Job description

Role: Mainframe Infra Engineer (Mainframe z/OS Technical Lead / L3 Engineer)
Location: McLean, VA (Hybrid)
Job Type: W2 Contract
 
Skill Matrix:
Name
Required
IMS
Yes
DB2
Yes
JCL
Yes
Cobol
Yes
Mainframe CICS
Yes
CICS
Yes
z/OS
Yes
 
Experience: Overall 15 years
Job Description:
We are seeking a senior Mainframe Z/OS Technical Lead to act as the client-side SME overseeing outsourced mainframe services and guiding a small internal team.
 
Responsibilities:
• Provide technical oversight of vendor-managed mainframe operations
• Review daily operations, incidents, RCA, changes, and releases
• Validate vendor recommendations and ensure adherence to SLAs and ITIL processes
• Act as escalation point for complex mainframe issues
• Provide expert guidance on z/OS, Sysplex, WLM, JES, and RACF
• Oversee IMS (DB/DC), DB2 for z/OS, and CICS environments
• Review system performance, capacity, availability, and stability
• Recommend improvements for performance, automation, and cost optimization
• Identify risks, technical debt, and modernization opportunities
• Review DR, BCP, backup, and recovery strategies
• Provide architectural input for upgrades and future-state planning
• Communicate technical insights clearly to leadership and stakeholders
 
Required Skills:
• 10+ years of strong hands-on mainframe experience.
• Expert knowledge of z/OS, IMS, DB2, CICS
• Strong understanding of JCL, COBOL, and batch processing
• Experience with vendor-managed or outsourced environments
• Ability to influence, challenge, and guide vendors constructively
 
Preferred:
• Mainframe modernization or optimization experience
• ITIL process exposure