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Mainframe Jobs in Madison, WI (NOW HIRING)

RIT Solutions, Inc.

mainframe programmer/developer

Madison, WI · On-site

$49.50 - $63.50/hr

RIT Solutions, Inc. is seeking a Mainframe Programmer/Developer for a contract position in Pennington, NJ. The role requires expertise in COBOL, DB2, and JCL, focusing on batch-oriented processing ...

Kanak Elite Services Inc

Senior CA-Gen Developer

Madison, WI · On-site

$55 - $72.50/hr

Top Skills & Years of Experience * 8+ years of experience with CA-Gen development analysis and design in a mainframe DB2 client-server environment * Ability to independently perform a variety of ...

IT America Inc

Disaster Recovery Engineer

Madison, WI · Remote

Experience working with mainframe and client server platforms * Experience working with company business recovery offerings and procedures Certifications (Preferred) * Certified Disaster Recovery ...

MIT RESOURCE

Sr. Java Developer

Madison, WI

$57.75 - $73.50/hr

Experience building and deploying large scale Java web applications Conceptual knowledge of information technologies and methodologies in mainframe, midrange, Web and PC computing environments ...

Atria Group LLC

Guideware Consultant

Madison, WI · On-site

Excellent skills in Data Bases (GreenPlum, Oracle, DB2 Mainframe) (worked at least 2 to 3 years in any of these technologies) * Excellent Communication skills Additional Information GOOD ...

SmartIPlace

.NET Developer

Madison, WI · Remote

$45 - $50/hr

A vast majority of the portfolio is modernized off legacy mainframe applications to web applications using ASP.NET MVC with C#, WebAPI, n-tier architecture and SQL Server. This developer will work on ...

PremierBank

Loan Processor

Fort Atkinson, WI · On-site

$17 - $22.75/hr

Exceptional customer services and sales skills with the ability to act with integrity, professionalism, and confidentiality. * ntermediate computer skills; mainframe computer system; and internet ...

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All JobsMainframe JobsMainframe Jobs in Madison, WI

Mainframe information

See Madison, WI salary details

$10

$53

$72

How much do mainframe jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for mainframe in Madison, WI is $53.79, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47.50 and $61.06 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 Madison, WI? The most popular types of Mainframe jobs in Madison, WI are:
What are popular job titles related to Mainframe jobs in Madison, WI? For Mainframe jobs in Madison, WI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Mainframe jobs in Madison, WI look for? The top searched job categories for Mainframe jobs in Madison, WI are:
What cities near Madison, WI are hiring for Mainframe jobs? Cities near Madison, WI with the most Mainframe job openings:
Mainframe jobs near you
Infographic showing various Mainframe job openings in Madison, WI as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $111,890 per year, or $53.8 per hour.
IBM Mainframe Administrator

IBM Mainframe Administrator

IT America Inc

Madison, WI • Remote

Contractor

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Title: IBM Mainframe Administrator

Location: Remote (Needs to travel to client site when required with your own expenses)

Duration: Long term contract

Job Summary

We are seeking an IBM Mainframe Administrator with expertise in data center migration, consolidation, and modernization. This role is responsible for planning, executing, and optimizing mainframe migrations while ensuring high availability, minimal downtime, and data integrity. The ideal candidate will work with cross-functional teams to transition mainframe workloads from on[1]premise to new data center locations or cloud-hosted mainframes while adhering to industry best practices.

Job Description:

System Management: Oversee the installation, configuration, and maintenance of mainframe hardware, software, and operating systems.

Performance Monitoring: Monitor system performance and ensure optimal operation by identifying and resolving performance bottlenecks.

Security Management: Implement and maintain robust security protocols to protect mainframe systems from unauthorized access and cyber threats.

Backup and Recovery: Develop and manage backup and recovery procedures to ensure data integrity and availability in case of system failures.

Storage Management: Manage and maintain Mainframe Storage Arrays and File Systems including Virtual Tape systems and subsystems.

Problem Resolution: Troubleshoot and resolve technical issues related to mainframe systems, ensuring minimal downtime and disruption to business operations.

Capacity Planning: Conduct capacity planning and forecasting to ensure the mainframe environment can handle current and future workloads efficiently.

Documentation: Maintain comprehensive documentation of system configurations, procedures, and changes for reference and compliance purposes.

Support: Provide technical support and guidance to other IT staff and users regarding mainframe-related issues and queries.

Technical Skills

Mainframe Platforms: IBM zSeries, z/OS, z/VM, z/Linux

Storage & Backup: DFSMS, HSM, SRDF, Tape Backup, VTS, DataMover

Networking & Security: TCP/IP, VTAM, OSA, RACF, MFA, Firewall Configurations

Database & Applications: DB2, IMS, VSAM, MQ Series, COBOL, JCL

Monitoring & Performance: IBM OMEGAMON, MainView, Splunk, CA-7 Job Scheduler

Automation & Scripting: REXX, CLIST, Python for mainframe automation

Data Center Migration Planning & Execution

  • Lead end-to-end migration of IBM mainframes from legacy data centers to new on-premise or cloud-based environments.
  • Develop mainframe workload migration strategies, including LPAR, data replication, and application transition.
  • Perform impact analysis, risk assessments, and dependency mapping before migration.
  • Implement cutover plans, rollback strategies, and failover testing to minimize downtime

Mainframe Infrastructure Setup & Configuration

  • Configure and optimize IBM zSeries (z/OS, z/VM, z/Linux) environments in the new data center.
  • Manage LPAR provisioning, network segmentation, and workload balancing post-migration.
  • Tune system parameters, workload scheduling, and CPU resource allocation to maintain performance.
  • Ensure successful integration of migrated workloads with existing applications and databases.

Storage & Data Migration

  • Perform high-volume data migrations using tools like IBM DataMover, DFSMS, and SRDF/EMC storage replication.
  • Manage tape backup, virtual tape systems (VTS), and storage tiering for migration efficiency.
  • Ensure DB2, IMS, and VSAM databases are securely migrated with minimal data loss.
  • Conduct pre- and post-migration data integrity checks

Network & Security Compliance in Migration

  • Implement mainframe network reconfiguration post-migration (TCP/IP, SNA, VTAM, OSA).
  • Maintain RACF security policies during and after migration to ensure role-based access control (RBAC) compliance.
  • Ensure encryption of in-transit and at-rest data meets regulatory standards (ISO 27001, PCI[1]DSS, GDPR).
  • Work with security teams to implement firewall rules, VPN access, and multi-factor authentication (MFA) for remote mainframe users

Performance Optimization & Troubleshooting

  • Monitor CPU, memory, and storage utilization before, during, and after migration.
  • Use tools like IBM OMEGAMON, MainView, and Splunk for performance tracking and issue detection.
  • Optimize batch job execution, scheduling, and workload distribution post-migration.
  • Troubleshoot CICS, DB2, MQ Series, and COBOL application performance issues related to migration.

Disaster Recovery (DR) & High Availability

  • Implement DR and failover mechanisms in the new data center.
  • Conduct disaster recovery tests (DR drills) and failover validation to ensure business continuity.
  • Integrate mainframe workloads with cloud-based DR solutions (IBM Cloud, AWS, Azure)

Documentation & Post-Migration Support

  • Create runbooks, system configuration documentation, and migration reports.
  • Document troubleshooting guides and knowledge base articles for ongoing support.
  • Train internal teams on mainframe operations in the new data center environment

Qualifications & Experience

  • Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field.
  • 5+ years of experience in IBM mainframe operations, with 3+ years in data center migration projects.
  • Proven expertise in z/OS, CICS, DB2, IMS, RACF, JCL, and MQ Series.
  • Experience in data migration, workload balancing, and post-migration tuning

Certifications (Preferred but Not Mandatory)

  • IBM Certified System Administrator – z/OS
  • IBM Certified Database Administrator – DB2
  • ITIL Foundation Certification (for change management in migrations)
  • AWS/Azure Certified Cloud Practitioner (if cloud-hosted mainframe migration is required)

General Skills

  • Strong problem-solving and analytical abilities
  • Excellent communication and documentation skills
  • Ability to work independently and collaborate with multi-disciplinary teams and mentoring junior mainframe engineers