Seasonal Mainframe Architect Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Under general direction provided by the Information Technology Supervisor II the incumbent will serve as an expert to independently perform all tasks and activities associated with system analysis, design, code development, and testing both distributed and mainframe-based applications. The specialist will be responsible for performing highly technical and complex duties associated with the system design, code analysis, and code development for both front-end web and backend distributed and COBOL applications, including backend database design.
Duties Performed:
(Candidates must perform the following functions with or without reasonable accommodations.)

• Serve as a technical developer collaborating with various stakeholders to evaluate, analyze, and develop code focusing on internal C#.Net, HTML5/Bootstrap, NodeJS, JavaScript frameworks, and COBOL application systems. Provide subject matter expertise on system re-engineering and design.

• Provide expertise in innovating using distributed .Net and open source NodeJS frameworks and methodologies to help the organization to create new and/or modernize existing legacy systems, including COBOL, FOCUS, and IDMS. Work on leading and creating working prototypes for the concepts that could be used for real system conversions and/or migrations. This involves understanding existing technologies, use of newer distributed technologies and performing detailed market research for solution viability. Should be keen on promoting an efficient and scalable architecture to ensure solutions align with the SCO's strategic vision. Perform architectural reviews and inspections at critical stages in the System Development Life Cycle (SDLC).

• Participate in Post-Development and Post-Conversion Support, including the identification and resolution of post conversion functional and/or data issues and decommissioning and monitoring activities.

• Develop research and strategy documents related to newer methodologies and system modernization frameworks. Establish and track tasks, priorities, dependencies, status, and completion dates.

• Work with the current mainframe systems support group in the Application Development and Maintenance Support section (ADaMS) and other bureaus, including any external vendor teams, to effectively monitor the tasks and produce documentation as required. Provide impact assessments due to change in priority, scope or schedule. Identify any potential data quality, migration issues/risks and document mitigation/contingency plans.
• Work with internal and external stakeholders to ensure development or conversion or enhancement activities are performed per the requirements with proper quality. Report on the system conversion, upgrades and migration activities outcomes and progress.

• Develop productive working relationships with internal and external stakeholders. Provide verbal and written status briefings on various activities for SCO management, business partners and control agencies as required.

• Stay current with the latest trends in mainframe software, databases and development technologies with a focus on how mainframe technologies can integrate with distributed technologies, cloud computing and data analytics solutions.

• Assist with the identification, selection, acquisition, and use of new technology solutions to meet SCO needs. Evaluate proposals, estimates, technical designs, and architectural diagrams for proposed solutions.

You will find additional information about the job in the Duty Statement .
Working Conditions
This position is located at The Emerald Tower on Capitol Mall, steps from Tower Bridge and is walking distance to the State Capitol. The building offers affordable monthly parking, employee gym access, an amenities center, and a beautiful mid-tower garden terrace. It is conveniently situated only blocks from Old Sacramento, numerous restaurants, a seasonal farmer's market, and the Crocker Art Museum. Overlooking the Golden 1 Arena and Downtown Commons, the office is accessible from Sacramento Regional Transit's light rail and bus systems, with convenient access to I-5, I-80, US 50 & US 99.
This position is eligible for hybrid telework under California Government Code Section 14200 for eligible applicants residing in California. All telework schedules are subject to change and may be reevaluated at any time. Specific telework arrangements may be discussed in more detail with the respective hiring manager. Telework does not change the terms and conditions of employment, the essential functions of job duties, or required compliance with the State Controller's Office policies.
In July 2025, the State of California implemented the Personal Leave Program (PLP) 2025. This program temporarily reduces employees' monthly base pay in exchange for paid leave credits. This position is subject to PLP 2025 and will have a monthly base pay reduction of 3% in exchange for 5 hours of leave credits through June 2027. The salary ranges shown on this job posting do not reflect the salary reduction.
Minimum Requirements You will find the Minimum Requirements in the Class Specification.

• INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY SPECIALIST I

Additional Documents

• Job Application Package Checklist
• Duty Statement

Position Details Job Code #:
JC-526434
Position #(s):
051-340-1402-062
Working Title:
Software Developer
Classification:
INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY SPECIALIST I $6,513.00 - $8,729.00 A
$7,163.00 - $9,599.00 B
$7,864.00 - $10,537.00 C
New to State candidates will be hired into the minimum salary of the classification or minimum of alternate range when applicable.
# of Positions:
1
Work Location:
Sacramento County
Telework:
Hybrid
Job Type:
Permanent, Full Time
Facility:
Information Systems Division
Department Information
The Office of the State Controller (SCO) is the destination employer within the State of California. As California's chief fiscal officer, the Controller's Office ensures accountability and transparency of California's financial practices while promoting fairness and opportunity for all. Here, you'll work in a collaborative and supportive environment with diverse opportunities for professional growth and development. A career with the SCO offers meaningful work that directly impacts the state's future.
The Information Services Division (ISD) of the California State Controller's Office is the technology hub that drives innovation and efficiency across the agency. ISD is responsible for developing, maintaining, and enhancing critical IT systems that support the State's payroll, accounting, and financial reporting functions. If you're passionate about software development, cybersecurity, data management, or IT project management, ISD offers a dynamic environment for tech professionals looking to make a meaningful impact.
Take the next step in your career with an organization that values innovation, integrity, and the well-being of its employees. Apply today and build a California where everyone thrives!
Visit our website to learn more about the State Controller's Office.
How did you hear about us? Take our survey!
Special Requirements A resume is required.
Take the required examination here: Information Technology Specialist I Examination
Application Instructions
Completed applications and all required documents must be received or postmarked by the Final Filing Date in order to be considered. Dates printed on Mobile Bar Codes, such as the Quick Response (QR) Codes available at the USPS, are not considered Postmark dates for the purpose of determining timely filing of an application.
Final Filing Date: 8/17/2026
Who May Apply
Individuals who are currently in the classification, eligible for lateral transfer, eligible for reinstatement, have list or LEAP eligibility, are in the process of obtaining list eligibility, or have SROA and/or Surplus eligibility (please attach your letter, if available). SROA and Surplus candidates are given priority; therefore, individuals with other eligibility may be considered in the event no SROA or Surplus candidates apply. Applications will be screened and only the most qualified applicants will be selected to move forward in the selection process. Applicants must meet the Minimum Qualifications stated in the Classification Specification(s).
How To Apply
Complete Application Packages (including your Examination/Employment Application (STD 678) and applicable or required documents) must be submitted to apply for this Job Posting. Application Packages may be submitted electronically through your CalCareer Account at www.CalCareers.ca.gov. When submitting your application in hard copy, a completed copy of the Application Package listing must be included. If you choose to not apply electronically, a hard copy application package may be submitted through an alternative method listed below:
Address for Mailing Application Packages
You may submit your application and any applicable or required documents to:
State Controller's Office
Human Resources
Attn: Human Resources Office, J.W.
300 Capitol Mall 3rd Floor, Ste 300
Sacramento , CA 95814
Address for Drop-Off Application Packages
You may drop off your application and any applicable or required documents at:
State Controller's Office
Human Resources
Attn: Human Resources Office, J.W.
300 Capitol Mall 3rd Floor, Ste 300
Sacramento , CA 95814
Applications dropped off in person must be received by 5 p.m. in HR, by the final filing date.
08:00 AM - 05:00 PM
Required Application Package Documents
The following items are required to be submitted with your application. Applicants who do not submit the required items timely may not be considered for this job:

• Current version of the State Examination/Employment Application STD Form 678 (when not applying electronically), or the Electronic State Employment Application through your Applicant Account at www.CalCareers.ca.gov. All Experience and Education relating to the Minimum Qualifications listed on the Classification Specification should be included to demonstrate how you meet the Minimum Qualifications for the position.
• Resume is required and must be included.

Applicants requiring reasonable accommodations for the hiring interview process must request the necessary accommodations if scheduled for a hiring interview. The request should be made at the time of contact to schedule the interview. Questions regarding reasonable accommodations may be directed to the EEO contact listed on this job posting.
Desirable Qualifications In addition to evaluating each candidate's relative ability, as demonstrated by quality and breadth of experience, the following factors will provide the basis for competitively evaluating each candidate:

• Knowledge of project management principles and ability to apply best practices and processes.

• Knowledge of software architecture for complex software application systems.

• Knowledge of the State of California IT policies, practices, and direction for the effective and efficient delivery of IT services.

• Knowledge of software security principles as related to the development and use of IT applications.

• Knowledge of C#.Net, HTML5/Bootstrap, NodeJS, JavaScript is a must.

• Previous COBOL programming and mainframe exposure preferred.

• Desirable to have knowledge of DevOps and JavaScript front-end/back-end frameworks like React.

• Desirable to have knowledge of relational database management systems (RDBMS).

• Experience with waterfall and/or agile SDLC methodologies.

• Expert software analysis and development skills in mainframe technologies and legacy systems.

• Excellent collaboration and customer service skills.

• Excellent communication, writing, analytical, and decision-making skills.

• Excellent skills in presenting technology concepts and design to IT and non-IT staff.

• Ability to write complex software programs and develop detailed program specifications; analyze information and situations, reason logically and creatively, identify problems, draw valid conclusions, and develop effective solutions.

• Ability to lead a team of developers and work independently in analysis, design, coding, testing, documentation, implementation, and support of IT applications.

• Ability to develop and maintain effective and cooperative working relationships.

• Ability to exercise a high degree of initiative, independence and originality.

• Ability to exercise tact, sound judgement, diplomacy and discretion.

• Ability to be flexible, work well under pressure, meet deadlines and adapt to changing priorities.

• Ability and willingness to keep abreast with the latest technologies in the market; learn and use these technologies to enhance SCO's technology solutions.

Benefits Benefit information can be found on the CalHR website and the CalPERS website.
Contact Information
The Hiring Unit Contact is available to answer questions regarding the position or application process.
Hiring Unit Contact:
Tara Koval
(916) 324-7157
tara.koval@sco.ca.gov
Please direct requests for Reasonable Accommodations to the interview scheduler at the time the interview is being scheduled. You may direct any additional questions regarding Reasonable Accommodations or Equal Employment Opportunity for this position(s) to the Department's EEO Office.
EEO Contact:
SCO EEO Officer
(916) 324-2223
California Relay Service: 1-800-735-2929 (TTY), 1-800-735-2922 (Voice) TTY is a Telecommunications Device for the Deaf, and is reachable only from phones equipped with a TTY Device.
Equal Opportunity Employer
The State of California is an equal opportunity employer to all, regardless of age, ancestry, color, disability (mental and