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Remote Mainframe Developer Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

System One

Senior Mainframe Developer (COBOL)

Reston, VA · Remote

$83/hr

Primarily Remote Onsite Expectations: Monthly travel to Reston, VA for PI Planning Compensation: $83/HR Employment Type: W2 only About the Role We're looking for a Senior Mainframe COBOL Developer to ...

System One

Senior Mainframe Engineer

Merrifield, VA · Remote

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 ...

System One

.NET Mainframe Developer

Vienna, VA · Remote

$50.25 - $64.50/hr

Remote Type: Contract Contractor Work Model: Remote Responsibilities * Design, develop, and enhance complex software applications supporting mission-critical, time-sensitive initiatives focused on ...

System One

.NET Mainframe Developer

Vienna, VA · Remote

$50.25 - $64.50/hr

Remote Type: Contract Contractor Work Model: Remote Responsibilities * Design, develop, and enhance complex software applications supporting mission-critical, time-sensitive initiatives focused on ...

System One

.NET Mainframe Developer

Vienna, VA · Remote

$50.25 - $64.50/hr

Remote Type: Contract Contractor Work Model: Remote Responsibilities * Design, develop, and enhance complex software applications supporting mission-critical, time-sensitive initiatives focused on ...

System One

.NET Mainframe Developer

Vienna, VA · Remote

$50.25 - $64.50/hr

Remote Type: Contract Contractor Work Model: Remote Responsibilities * Design, develop, and enhance complex software applications supporting mission-critical, time-sensitive initiatives focused on ...

System One

.NET Mainframe Developer

Vienna, VA · Remote

$50.25 - $64.50/hr

Remote Type: Contract Contractor Work Model: Remote Responsibilities * Design, develop, and enhance complex software applications supporting mission-critical, time-sensitive initiatives focused on ...

System One

.NET Mainframe Developer

Vienna, VA · Remote

$50.25 - $64.50/hr

Remote Type: Contract Contractor Work Model: Remote Responsibilities * Design, develop, and enhance complex software applications supporting mission-critical, time-sensitive initiatives focused on ...

Analytica

z/OS Mainframe Programmer

Washington, DC · Remote

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

z/OS Mainframe Programmer

Washington, DC · On-site +1

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.

System One

Java Mainframe Developer

Vienna, VA · Remote

$58.50 - $74.75/hr

Remote Type: Contract Responsibilities * Design, develop, and enhance complex software applications supporting mission-critical, time-sensitive initiatives focused on integrating distributed ...

System One

Java Mainframe Developer

Vienna, VA · Remote

$58.50 - $74.75/hr

Remote Type: Contract Responsibilities * Design, develop, and enhance complex software applications supporting mission-critical, time-sensitive initiatives focused on integrating distributed ...

System One

Java Mainframe Developer

Vienna, VA · Remote

$58.50 - $74.75/hr

Remote Type: Contract Responsibilities * Design, develop, and enhance complex software applications supporting mission-critical, time-sensitive initiatives focused on integrating distributed ...

System One

Java Mainframe Developer

Vienna, VA · Remote

$58.50 - $74.75/hr

Remote Type: Contract Responsibilities * Design, develop, and enhance complex software applications supporting mission-critical, time-sensitive initiatives focused on integrating distributed ...

System One

Java Mainframe Developer

Vienna, VA · Remote

$58.50 - $74.75/hr

Remote Type: Contract Responsibilities * Design, develop, and enhance complex software applications supporting mission-critical, time-sensitive initiatives focused on integrating distributed ...

System One

Java Mainframe Developer

Vienna, VA · Remote

$58.50 - $74.75/hr

Remote Type: Contract Responsibilities * Design, develop, and enhance complex software applications supporting mission-critical, time-sensitive initiatives focused on integrating distributed ...

AMERICAN SYSTEMS

Mainframe System Programmer

Mclean, VA · On-site +1

$120K - $140K/yr

Provide 24x7/365 remote support services and on-premises response as needed. * Utilize IBM's SMP/E ... for an IBM mainframe environment. * Demonstrated System programmer experience managing and ...

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Remote Mainframe Developer information

See Washington salary details

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How much do remote mainframe developer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for remote mainframe developer 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 does a remote mainframe developer do?

As a remote mainframe developer, you work from home to design, code, test, and configure software and applications used on a mainframe system. Mainframes are large computers with particularly high processing power and are often used for critical tasks like bulk data processing or enterprise resource planning. In this role, you may help ensure all new software is fully backward-compatible, monitor system performance, isolate errors, and work collaboratively with other developers as needed. Most mainframe developers work for larger companies. As a remote employee, you use virtual office software, phone, chat, or email to remain connected to other employees.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a remote mainframe developer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Remote Mainframe Developer, you need strong programming skills in languages like COBOL, JCL, and experience with mainframe operating systems, often supported by a degree in computer science or related field. Familiarity with tools such as IBM z/OS, DB2, CICS, and version control systems is typically required, along with relevant certifications. Excellent problem-solving abilities, independent work ethic, and effective virtual communication are standout soft skills for this remote role. These skills ensure smooth maintenance, modernization, and support of critical legacy systems in distributed teams.

Is mainframe in demand?

Mainframe developers are still in demand due to the continued reliance of large enterprises on mainframe systems for critical operations. Skills in COBOL, JCL, and mainframe security are valuable, and many organizations seek professionals to maintain and modernize legacy systems.

How does a remote mainframe developer typically collaborate with on-site teams and manage communication challenges?

As a Remote Mainframe Developer, you'll often work closely with on-site IT teams, business analysts, and project managers through virtual meetings, chat platforms, and shared documentation tools. Effective communication is key, so regular check-ins and proactive status updates help ensure alignment on project goals and troubleshooting efforts. Many companies use agile methodologies, which means you'll likely participate in daily stand-ups and sprint planning sessions remotely. While time zone differences can be a challenge, flexible scheduling and clear communication protocols are common strategies to keep everyone connected and productive.

What is a remote mainframe developer?

A Remote Mainframe Developer is a software professional who specializes in designing, developing, maintaining, and troubleshooting applications that run on mainframe computers, while working from a remote location. Mainframes are powerful computers often used by large organizations for critical applications, such as transaction processing and bulk data handling. Remote Mainframe Developers use programming languages like COBOL, JCL, and Assembler, and often connect to mainframe systems via secure networks. Their work ensures that legacy systems remain efficient, secure, and up-to-date. This role typically requires strong technical skills, experience with mainframe environments, and effective communication for collaborating with on-site teams.
More about Remote Mainframe Developer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Mainframe Developer jobs in Washington? The most popular types of Mainframe Developer jobs in Washington are:
What are popular job titles related to Remote Mainframe Developer jobs in Washington? For Remote Mainframe Developer jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Remote Mainframe Developer jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for Remote Mainframe Developer jobs in Washington are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Remote Mainframe Developer jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Remote Mainframe Developer job openings:
Remote Mainframe Developer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Remote Mainframe Developer job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 58% Full Time, and 42% Contract. Highlights an 100% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $125,748 per year, or $60.5 per hour.

Senior Mainframe Developer (COBOL)

System One

Reston, VA • Remote

$83/hr

Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description

Senior Mainframe Developer (COBOL) Location: Primarily Remote Onsite Expectations: Monthly travel to Reston, VA for PI Planning Compensation: $83/HR Employment Type: W2 only

About the Role We’re looking for a Senior Mainframe COBOL Developer to support and enhance large-scale enterprise systems. This role is ideal for someone who thrives in a mainframe environment, enjoys solving complex problems, and is open to evolving technologies. You’ll play a key role in maintaining critical applications, supporting high-volume systems, and contributing to modernization efforts where applicable.
Work Model
  • Primarily remote
  • Must live in the DMV area or nearby states (WV, DE, PA) OR be willing to relocate
  • Ability to travel to Reston, VA approximately once per month for PI Planning
What You’ll Do
  • Design, develop, test, and maintain mainframe applications using COBOL
  • Work across core mainframe tools including CICS, JCL, TSO/ISPF, and related utilities
  • Analyze business and technical requirements to develop scalable solutions
  • Support production systems, troubleshoot issues, and resolve critical defects
  • Perform code reviews, testing, and ensure adherence to quality standards
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to deliver reliable, high-performing systems
  • Participate in Agile ceremonies and PI Planning sessions
  • Identify opportunities to improve performance, stability, and maintainability
  • Mentor junior developers and contribute to team best practices
What You Bring Required Experience
  • 5–8 years of mainframe development experience
  • Strong expertise in:
    • COBOL
    • CICS
    • JCL
    • TSO/ISPF
    • Mainframe change management tools (e.g., ChangeMan, Topaz)
  • Experience supporting large-scale enterprise systems
  • Ability to analyze, debug, and work with existing legacy codebases
  • Experience in Agile/Scrum environments
  • Strong problem-solving and communication skills
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a distributed team
? Candidates with prior mainframe experience (even if from 1–3 years ago) are encouraged to apply if they’re confident returning to hands-on COBOL work
Nice to Have
  • Exposure to Java or modern integration technologies
  • Experience with web services (REST/SOA)
  • Familiarity with AWS or cloud concepts
  • Experience with DevOps / CI-CD pipelines
  • Healthcare domain experience (especially working with enrollment or benefits data)
  • Experience with Git / Bitbucket
Education
  • Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, IT, or related field
  • OR equivalent experience (additional 4 years of relevant work)

System One, and its subsidiaries including Joulé and Mountain Ltd., are leaders in delivering outsourced services and workforce solutions across North America. We help clients get work done more efficiently and economically, without compromising quality. System One not only serves as a valued partner for our clients, but we offer eligible employees health and welfare benefits coverage options including medical, dental, vision, spending accounts, life insurance, voluntary plans, as well as participation in a 401(k) plan.

System One is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, disability, family care or medical leave status, genetic information, veteran status, marital status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

#M-1 #LI-AJ1

Ref: #851-Rockville-S1