ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Mainframe Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Kanak Elite Services Inc

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 ...

Accenture

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 ...

Kanak Elite Services Inc

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 ...

Swanktek Inc

Mainframe Support Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$50.50 - $65/hr

The position requires strong mainframe skills (JCL, COBOL, DB2, VSAM) and the ability to troubleshoot issues across multiple technologies. The analyst will work closely with global teams, business ...

New

Broadcom

Mainframe Software Development Engineer

Lisle, IL · On-site

$48.25 - $62.25/hr

This position is concentrated on the mainframe platform, with development in Assembler and Metal C. In addition to the talent and passion, experience in one or more of these areas could make you a ...

Deloitte

Senior Mainframe Developer

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

As an experienced Mainframe Developer , you will have the ability to share new ideas and collaborate on projects as a consultant without the extensive demands of travel. The Project Delivery Talent ...

Broadcom

Sr Mainframe Technical Consultant

Lisle, IL

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 ...

Infosys

Senior Mainframe Architect

Chicago, IL · On-site

$112K - $146K/yr

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

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsMainframe JobsMainframe Jobs in Chicago, IL

Mainframe information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$10

$55

$74

How much do mainframe jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for mainframe in Chicago, IL is $55.03, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48.56 and $62.45 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.

More about Mainframe jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Mainframe jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Mainframe jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Mainframe jobs in Chicago, IL? For Mainframe jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Mainframe jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Mainframe jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Mainframe jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Mainframe job openings:
Mainframe jobs near you
Infographic showing various Mainframe job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 71% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 25% Contract. Highlights an 94% In-person, 4% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $114,463 per year, or $55 per hour.

Mainframe Developer

Kanak Elite Services Inc

Chicago, IL • On-site

$50.50 - $65/hr

Contractor

Posted 12 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