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Senior Systems Programmer Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

Mainframe Systems Programmer(34394)

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$54.50 - $69.50/hr

The Sr. Systems Programmer's main job responsibilities will include Installation, Upgrading, Customization, Problem Determination, Performance Analysis Tuning, Capacity Planning, and WLM for the IBM ...

Senior Systems Engineer

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$50 - $60/hr

R&D Partners is seeking to hire a Senior Systems Engineer in Tucson, AZ . Your main responsibilities as a Senior Systems Engineer: · Applies intensive and diversified knowledge of design principles ...

Senior Systems Engineer

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$50 - $60/hr

BEPC is actively looking for Senior Systems Engineer, in Tucson, AZ area! W2 Contract - 4 months with possible extensions! The contract may be renewed into 2027, based on candidate performance and ...

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Senior Systems Engineer

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$50 - $60/hr

BEPC is actively looking for Senior Systems Engineer, in Tucson, AZ area! W2 Contract - 4 months with possible extensions! The contract may be renewed into 2027, based on candidate performance and ...

Senior Systems Engineer

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$98K - $135K/yr

SENIOR SYSTEMS ENGINEER I/II Rocket Lab's Optical Systems division solves mission-critical space domain and Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) challenges for Department of Defense ...

Lead the Digital Thread for Next-Generation Aerospace Development as a Sr Systems Engineer! Pay Rate: $101.00/hr Lead the Digital Thread for Next-Generation Aerospace Development PDS Tech Commercial ...

Senior Systems Engineer

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$100K - $137K/yr

The Systems Engineering and Test Capabilities (SETC) organization is currently hiring a Senior Systems Engineer to join our Tucson, AZ location. SETC is an exciting and challenging environment where ...

Senior Systems Engineer

Chandler, AZ · On-site

$106K - $146K/yr

As a Senior Systems Engineer, you will focus primarily on Network Quality of Service from an autodialers perspective, evaluating strategies for optimization of service performance, KPI automation ...

Senior Systems Engineer

Tempe, AZ · On-site

$101K - $139K/yr

Position Overview The Senior Systems Engineer is responsible for high-impact escalations, technical standards, project architecture, risk reduction, mentoring, and leadership-ready technical ...

Senior Systems Engineer

Chandler, AZ · On-site

$100K - $138K/yr

As a Senior Systems Engineer, you will focus primarily on Network Quality of Service from an autodialers perspective, evaluating strategies for optimization of service performance, KPI automation ...

Senior Systems Engineer

Chandler, AZ · On-site

$100K - $138K/yr

As a Senior Systems Engineer, you will focus primarily on Network Quality of Service from an autodialers perspective, evaluating strategies for optimization of service performance, KPI automation ...

Senior Systems Engineer

Chandler, AZ · On-site

$100K - $138K/yr

As a Senior Systems Engineer, you will focus primarily on Network Quality of Service from an autodialers perspective, evaluating strategies for optimization of service performance, KPI automation ...

Senior Systems Engineer I

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$98K - $135K/yr

SENIOR SYSTEMS ENGINEER I Rocket Lab Optical Systems solves mission-critical space domain and Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance challenges for Department of Defense and Intelligence ...

Senior Systems Engineer I

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$98K - $135K/yr

SENIOR SYSTEMS ENGINEER I Rocket Lab Optical Systems solves mission-critical space domain and Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance challenges for Department of Defense and Intelligence ...

Senior Systems Engineer I

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$98K - $135K/yr

SENIOR SYSTEMS ENGINEER I Rocket Lab Optical Systems solves mission-critical space domain and Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance challenges for Department of Defense and Intelligence ...

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Showing results 1-20

Senior Systems Programmer information

See Arizona salary details

$33

$53

$75

How much do senior systems programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for senior systems programmer in Arizona is $53.61, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44.38 and $61.15 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a senior systems programmer?

Senior Systems Programmers are experienced professionals who design, implement, and maintain low-level software that enables computer systems and hardware to function efficiently. They often work on operating systems, device drivers, and system utilities, ensuring optimal performance and stability. Their responsibilities may include troubleshooting complex system issues, optimizing code, and collaborating with other IT teams to support large-scale computing environments. Senior Systems Programmers typically have strong knowledge of languages like C, C++, and assembly, as well as deep understanding of operating system internals.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a senior systems programmer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Senior Systems Programmer, you need strong expertise in computer science fundamentals, systems programming languages (like C/C++ or Assembly), and operating system internals, often backed by a relevant degree and significant experience. Proficiency with debugging tools, version control systems (such as Git), and familiarity with mainframe or server platforms are typically required, with certifications in specific technologies being advantageous. Analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for collaborating across teams and troubleshooting complex issues. These combined skills ensure robust, efficient, and secure system operations, which are critical for business continuity and technological advancement.

What are some common challenges faced by senior systems programmers, and how can they be addressed?

Senior Systems Programmers often encounter challenges such as managing complex legacy codebases, ensuring system scalability, and integrating new technologies with existing infrastructure. Addressing these challenges typically involves maintaining thorough documentation, collaborating closely with cross-functional teams, and staying current with industry best practices through ongoing learning. Proactive communication and effective troubleshooting skills are also essential for resolving issues efficiently and minimizing downtime.

What is the difference between Senior Systems Programmer vs Systems Analyst?

AspectSenior Systems ProgrammerSystems Analyst
CredentialsBachelor's in Computer Science or related, certifications like CompTIA or MicrosoftBachelor's in Information Systems, Business, or related; certifications vary
Work EnvironmentIT departments, software development teams, technical supportBusiness units, IT departments, client-facing roles
Employer & IndustryTech companies, large enterprises, government agenciesBusinesses across industries, consulting firms, government
Search & Comparison IntentTechnical skills, programming, system maintenanceBusiness processes, system requirements, user needs

The main difference is that Senior Systems Programmers focus on coding, maintaining, and optimizing computer systems and software, while Systems Analysts primarily analyze business needs and design system solutions. Both roles require technical knowledge, but their core responsibilities differ in scope and focus.

What cities in Arizona are hiring for Senior Systems Programmer jobs?

Cities in Arizona with the most Senior Systems Programmer job openings:

Mainframe Systems Programmer/SR (29935)

Phoenix, AZ

IDEALFORCE LLC
IT Services • 11 - 50 employees

$54.50 - $69.50/hr

Contractor

Re-posted 3 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Install, upgrade, customize, and perform problem determination, performance analysis tuning, capacity planning, and workload management for IBM Mainframe zSeries z/OS systems and related hardware and software.

  • Interface with management, technical staff, user community, and vendor support to plan, prioritize, and resolve system issues, ensuring high system availability.

  • Manage hardware and network device setup, including processors, coupling facilities, networking interfaces, storage, and communication protocols, with expert knowledge of z/OS operating system and related software.


Job description

Company Description

IDEALFORCE has a Contract-to-Hire positions available immediately for a Mainframe System Programmer/SR to join our customer in Phoenix, AZ. Please find below additional details about this job. Kindly respond with your most up to date resume if you would like to pursue this opportunity. 

Job Description


The Sr. Systems Programmer's main job responsibilities will include Installation, Upgrading,  Customization, Problem Determination, Performance Analysis Tuning, Capacity Planning, and WLM for the IBM Mainframe zSeries z/OS Systems, Hardware Systems & Peripherals, zSeries based ISV (Independent Software Vendor) Software, and zSeries Network Communications.  
Professional skills should include utilizing Project and Change Management, along with excellent communications skills, and experience working directly with the user community, and vendor technical support personnel.  The Systems Programmer is required to be on call 24x7 for providing problem resolution and high systems availability. 
The Sr. Systems Programmer will interface with management and the technical staff to plan and prioritize projects tasks in accordance with departmental goals.   
The Mainframe Sr. Systems Programming skills will require hardware expert knowledge of the currently supported IBM zSeries type Processors and their associated HMC (Processor Interface), SYSPLEX, Coupling Facilities, OSA (Networking Interface), ICC (Integrated Console Controller), FICON (Fiber connectivity to peripheral devices), DASD Storage/Flash Copy and ATL/VTL Tape Storage, and Network Routers (Managing device setup and addressability).  
A detailed knowledge of the z/OS Operating System with hands on experience with the latest z/OS Versions and Release levels is expected.  Operating Systems experience should include expert knowledge of and experience with: z/OS z/AWARE, BCP, JES2, IOCP, HCD, RMF, SMF, DFSMS, DFHSM, DFDSS, FDR, SDSF, DFSORT, SMPE, TSO, CA-MIMS, ISPF/PDF, RACF, SVC Dumps, OMEGAMON, TMON, VTAM/SNA, TCP/IP, OSPF (TCP/IP Routing Protocol), VIPA, and FTP (File Transfer z/OS).  Expert knowledge and experience with the following File Formats is required: PS, PO, PDS, PDS/E, z/FS and VSAM/E). Mainframe Business Continuity/Disaster Recovery with periodic DR testing experience is required.      
The following software experience will be a plus: Assembler, REXX, COBOL, PL1, XML, SAS, MXG, HTML, CRplus, BMC's CONTROL-M, CICS/TS, IMS and DB2.  Additionally, UNIX, and/or Linux experience would also be a plus.     
The Sr. Systems Programmer position requires a minimum of 10 to 15 years in Data Processing, with 8 of those years in z/OS Systems Programming. Employment history should show Job responsibility within large zSeries environments.

Additional Information

- "All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines". 
- All candidates who are authorized to work in US are encouraged to apply.

- Most of our positions require Candidate to clear the Background check prior to commencing the assignment.

SOURCER ASSIGNED: Pete Tylor; Email: pete dot tylor at idealforce.com

Disclaimer: 

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. All personnel may be required to perform duties outside of their normal responsibilities from time to time, as needed.


Idealforce logo

About Idealforce

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Idealforce is a reputable company headquartered in Austin, TX, United States, that operates within the dynamic technology industry. As indicated by the information derived from its official website, idealforce.com, the company's specialization lies in providing innovative technology solutions and digital services for various business operations. Founded on the principles of excellence, efficiency, and progressive technology, Idealforce has significantly contributed toward shifting the business landscape to a more digital realm.

Industry

It services

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

Austin, TX, US

Year founded

2008

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