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Mainframe Jobs in Columbus, GA (NOW HIRING)

Aflac

Principal Software Engineer (Salesforce)

Columbus, GA · On-site +1

$123K - $170K/yr

... mainframe operating systems or major subsystems, and associated software and hardware products; handles unresolved support issues across multiple areas of expertise • Proactively monitors projects ...

All JobsMainframe JobsMainframe Jobs in Columbus, GA

Mainframe information

See Columbus, GA salary details

$9

$47

$64

How much do mainframe jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for mainframe in Columbus, GA is $47.78, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42.16 and $54.23 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 Columbus, GA? The most popular types of Mainframe jobs in Columbus, GA are:
What are popular job titles related to Mainframe jobs in Columbus, GA? For Mainframe jobs in Columbus, GA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Mainframe jobs in Columbus, GA look for? The top searched job categories for Mainframe jobs in Columbus, GA are:
What cities near Columbus, GA are hiring for Mainframe jobs? Cities near Columbus, GA with the most Mainframe job openings:
Mainframe jobs near you
Infographic showing various Mainframe job openings in Columbus, GA 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 $99,382 per year, or $47.8 per hour.
Senior QA Analyst with Mainframe and TSYS experience

Senior QA Analyst with Mainframe and TSYS experience

Cognizant Technology Solutions

Columbus, GA • On-site

$53K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago

Cognizant rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 85 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

52nd of 73 rated business consultants

Job description

About the role
As a Senior QA Analyst with Mainframe and TSYS experience, you will make an impact by ensuring the quality, stability, and reliability of critical payment processing and banking applications. You will be a valued member of the Quality Engineering team and work collaboratively with business analysts, developers, product owners, and cross-functional stakeholders to deliver high-quality solutions supporting TSYS and related banking platforms.
In this role, you will:
  • Perform functional, regression, smoke, integration, and performance testing for Mainframe and distributed applications.
  • Analyze business requirements and technical specifications to create comprehensive test scenarios, test cases, and validation strategies.
  • Execute end-to-end testing for banking and payment processing workflows, ensuring accurate data processing and system integration.
  • Investigate defects, perform root cause analysis, and collaborate with development teams to drive timely resolution.
  • Support Agile delivery by participating in sprint planning, daily stand-ups, reviews, retrospectives, UAT activities, and production validation efforts.

Work model
At Cognizant, we strive to provide flexibility wherever possible, and we are here to support a healthy work-life balance through our various wellbeing programs. Based on this role's business requirements, this is an onsite position requiring 5 days per week in a client or Cognizant office in Columbus, Georgia.
The working arrangements for this role are accurate as of the date of posting. This may change based on the project you're engaged in, as well as business and client requirements. Rest assured; we will always be clear about role expectations.
What you need to have to be considered
  • Strong experience testing Mainframe applications with hands-on knowledge of COBOL-based systems.
  • Proven experience in functional, regression, integration, and end-to-end testing within enterprise environments.
  • Experience analyzing business requirements, creating test cases, executing test plans, and managing defects throughout the testing lifecycle.
  • Knowledge of batch processing, file-based testing, data validation, reconciliation, and Mainframe testing methodologies.
  • Strong SQL skills with experience performing backend testing and database validation.
  • Experience using API testing tools such as Postman.
  • Understanding of Software Testing Life Cycle (STLC) and Agile/Scrum delivery methodologies.
  • Experience supporting banking, financial services, payments, or card processing applications.
  • Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and communication skills with the ability to collaborate across technical and business teams.

These will help you stand out
  • Experience working with TSYS payment processing platforms.
  • Hands-on experience with automation testing tools such as Playwright or Selenium.
  • Working knowledge of Java or JavaScript for test automation development.
  • Experience with CI/CD tools and practices, including Jenkins, GitHub Actions, and pipeline validation.
  • Familiarity with SQLite and other relational database technologies.
  • Experience reviewing application logs, batch jobs, interfaces, and production support activities.
  • Advanced reporting and test metrics preparation using Microsoft Office tools and collaboration platforms.

We're excited to meet people who share our mission and can make an impact in a variety of ways. Don't hesitate to apply, even if you only meet the minimum requirements listed. Think about your transferable experiences and unique skills that make you stand out as someone who can bring new and exciting things to this role.
Salary and Other Compensation:
The annual salary for this position is between $53,477 to 92,500 depending on experience and other qualifications of the successful candidate.
This position is also eligible for Cognizant's discretionary annual incentive program, based on performance and subject to the terms of Cognizant's applicable plans.
Benefits: Cognizant offers the following benefits for this position, subject to applicable eligibility requirements:
Medical/Dental/Vision/Life Insurance
Paid holidays plus Paid Time Off
401(k) plan and contributions
Long-term/Short-term Disability
Paid Parental Leave
Employee Stock Purchase Plan
Disclaimer: The salary, other compensation, and benefits information is accurate as of the date of this posting. Cognizant reserves the right to modify this information at any time, subject to applicable law.
Cognizant will only consider applicants for this position who are legally authorized to work in the United States without company sponsorship.
*Please note, this role is not able to offer visa transfer or sponsorship now or in the future*
About Cognizant:
Cognizant (Nasdaq: CTSH) is an AI Builder and technology services provider, bridging the gap between AI investment and enterprise value by building full-stack AI solutions for our clients. Our deep industry, process and engineering expertise enables us to build an organization's unique context into technology systems that amplify human potential, drive tangible outcomes and keep global enterprises ahead in a fast-changing world. See how at cognizant.ai or @cognizant.
Additional employment information
Compensation information is accurate as of the date of this posting. Cognizant reserves the right to modify this information at any time, subject to applicable law.
Applicants may be required to attend interviews in person or by video conference. In addition, candidates may be required to present their current state or government issued ID during each interview.
Cognizant is an equal opportunity employer. Your application and candidacy will not be considered based on race, color, sex, religion, creed, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, veteran status or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.
If you have a disability that requires reasonable accommodation to search for a job opening or submit an application, please email [email protected] for roles based in the Americas or [email protected] for roles based in India.

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