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Systems Programmer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

The IBM System Programmer will be responsible for installing, maintaining, and troubleshooting IBM ... Install, configure, and maintain IBM z/OS operating systems and subsystems. * Manage and support ...

The IBM System Programmer will be responsible for installing, maintaining, and troubleshooting IBM ... Install, configure, and maintain IBM z/OS operating systems and subsystems. * Manage and support ...

Senior Systems Engineer

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$107K - $146K/yr

Senior Systems Engineer Requisition ID: 1737 Position Location: Fairfax, VA / Concord, NH (onsite) Position Reports To: Senior Principal Systems Engineer Supervises Others: No At Trident Systems ...

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Systems Programmer information

See Virginia salary details

$17

$49

$81

How much do systems programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for systems programmer in Virginia is $49.32, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $35.77 and $61.73 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some typical challenges faced by systems programmers, and how can they overcome them?

Systems programmers often face challenges such as debugging low-level code, ensuring compatibility across different hardware or operating systems, and addressing performance bottlenecks. These tasks require a deep understanding of computer architecture, operating systems, and programming languages like C or Assembly. Collaborating closely with other IT professionals, such as network administrators and application developers, can help identify and resolve issues more efficiently. Staying current with industry developments and using robust version control and debugging tools are also essential strategies for overcoming these challenges.

What Is a Systems Programmer?

A systems programmer is a skilled computer technician that develops application software with a variety of programming languages. In this career, you must have experience working with a variety of operating systems including Windows, Linux, and mainframe. Your job duties include developing application programs, testing the functionality of the software, and troubleshooting issues found by users. You also work on a variety of computer hardware such as servers and mainframes, so your skills must extend beyond software and coding. You can find systems programmer positions with third-party IT companies and in the IT departments of larger companies.

What is the difference between Systems Programmer vs Software Developer?

AspectSystems ProgrammerSoftware Developer
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in computer science or related field, with knowledge of low-level programmingUsually holds a degree in computer science, software engineering, or related disciplines
Work EnvironmentWorks closely with operating systems, hardware, and system utilities in enterprise or technical settingsDevelops applications and software solutions for various platforms, often in business or consumer environments
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in IT departments, tech companies, and organizations managing complex systemsWidely employed across tech firms, startups, and any industry requiring software solutions

While both roles involve programming, Systems Programmers focus on low-level system software and hardware interaction, whereas Software Developers create applications and user-facing software. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

What are systems programmers?

Systems programmers are specialized software developers who design, develop, test, and maintain the low-level software that enables computer hardware and software to work together effectively. They often work on operating systems, firmware, device drivers, and other system-level components. Their main focus is on optimizing system performance, ensuring reliability, and enabling hardware-software interoperability. Systems programmers typically have strong knowledge of computer architecture, operating systems, and programming languages like C or assembly.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Systems Programmer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Systems Programmer, you need expertise in low-level programming languages (such as C or Assembly), operating system concepts, and a degree in computer science or related field. Familiarity with mainframe or server environments, system debugging tools, and certifications in relevant platforms (like IBM z/OS or Linux) are highly beneficial. Strong problem-solving, analytical thinking, and effective communication skills distinguish top performers in this role. These skills are crucial for optimizing system performance, maintaining reliability, and ensuring seamless integration between hardware and software components.
What job categories do people searching Systems Programmer jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Systems Programmer jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Systems Programmer jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Systems Programmer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Systems Programmer jobs in VA? For Systems Programmer jobs in VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
CICS Systems Programmer - Mainframe - Remote

CICS Systems Programmer - Mainframe - Remote

Truist

Richmond, VA • On-site

$54.50 - $69.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago


Truist rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 110 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

34th of 141 rated banks


Job description

The position is described below. If you want to apply, click the Apply Now button at the top or bottom of this page. After you click Apply Now and complete your application, you'll be invited to create a profile, which will let you see your application status and any communications. If you already have a profile with us, you can log in to check status.

Need Help?

If you have a disability and need assistance with the application, you can request a reasonable accommodation. Send an email to Accessibility (accommodation requests only; other inquiries won't receive a response).

Regular or Temporary:

Regular

Language Fluency: English (Required)

Work Shift:

1st shift (United States of America)Please review the following job description:Resolves complex technical issues for Truist's Network applications by administering multiple CICS Production, Development and Test environments in a multiple LPAR mainframe environment.
Please note: For this opportunity, Truist will not sponsor an applicant for work visa status or employment authorization, nor will we offer any immigration-related support for this position (including, but not limited to H-1B, F-1 OPT, F-1 STEM OPT, F-1 CPT, J-1, TN-1 or TN-2, E-3, O-1, or future sponsorship for U.S. lawful permanent residence status.)

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Following is a summary of the essential functions for this job. Other duties may be performed, both major and minor, which are not mentioned below. Specific activities may change from time to time.
1. Performs problem tracking, diagnosis and root-cause analysis, replication, troubleshooting, and resolution for complex issues. In this capacity, performs programming and debugging activities.
2. Responds to issues in a timely manner by receiving and investigating incidents or service tickets.
3. Analyzes and observes trends with technical issues and develops recommendations for long- term improvements.
4. Documents all relevant end-user interactions and steps taken to resolve incidents.
5. Has occasional contact with end-users.
6. Communicates status of issue resolution to internal customers.
7. May engage and manage outside vendors.
8. Applies in-depth knowledge of application support and an understanding of best practices.
9. Typically leads moderately complex projects and participates in larger, more complex initiatives.
10. Solves complex technical and operational problems.
11. Acts as a resource for teammates with less experience.
12. May have people management responsibilities for a small team.


QUALIFICATIONS
Required Qualifications:

The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
1. Bachelor's degree and five years of experience in development or application support or an equivalent combination of education and work experience.
2. In- depth knowledge in information systems and ability to identify, apply, and implement best practices.
3. Understanding of key business processes and competitive strategies related to the IT function.
4. Ability to plan and manage projects.
5. Ability to solve complex problems by applying best practices.
6. Ability to provide direction and mentor less experienced teammates.
7. Ability to interpret and convey complex, difficult, or sensitive information.

Preferred Qualifications:

1. Bachelor's degree and six years of experience or an equivalent combination of education and work experience.
2. Banking or financial services experience.

3. Administer multiple CICS Production, Development and Test environments

(CICSPLEX, CPSM, SYSPLEX in a multiple LPAR mainframe environment)

4. Qualified applicants will have very current CICS knowledge, mainframe MQ skills a plus, includes CICS Explorer, WUI, Omegamon and strong troubleshooting skills (IPCS, FileAid). Experience with CICSPLEX, CICS Web Services, CICS APIs, or TCP/IP sockets is also highly desirable

5. Administer 3rd-party systems software, including CICS system utilities, CAFC, along with application software development products and tools

6. Create new and/or modify existing CICS regions in support of new applications or CICS architecture re-engineering initiatives

7. Provide problem resolution, including diagnosis and root-cause analysis of CICS application software problems, configuration and/or software-related problems.

8. Installation and maintenance of CICS softwareand third party vendor software to maintain a reliable and stable infrastructure

9. CICS Performance reporting and tuning for optimum system usage

10. 24x7 on-call support for CICS

11. z/OS Connect support experience.

OTHER JOB REQUIREMENTS / WORKING CONDITIONS

Sitting
Frequently (25% - 50% of the time)
Lifting
Up to 25 lbs.
Visual / Audio / Speaking
Able to access and interpret client information received from the computer and able to hear and speak with individuals in person and on the phone.
Manual Dexterity / Keyboarding
Able to work standard office equipment, including PC keyboard and mouse, copy/fax machines, and printers.
Availability
Able to work all hours scheduled, including overtime as directed by manager/supervisor and required by business need.
Travel
Up to 25%

General Description of Available Benefits for Eligible Employees of Truist Financial Corporation: All regular teammates (not temporary or contingent workers) working 20 hours or more per week are eligible for benefits, though eligibility for specific benefits may be determined by the division of Truist offering the position.Truist offers medical, dental, vision, life insurance, disability, accidental death and dismemberment, tax-preferred savings accounts, and a 401k plan to teammates. Teammates also receive no less than 10 days of vacation (prorated based on date of hire and by full-time or part-time status) during their first year of employment, along with 10 sick days (also prorated), and paid holidays. For more details on Truist's generous benefit plans, please visit our Benefits site. Depending on the position and division, this job may also be eligible for Truist's defined benefit pension plan, restricted stock units, and/or a deferred compensation plan. As you advance through the hiring process, you will also learn more about the specific benefits available for any non-temporary position for which you apply, based on full-time or part-time status, position, and division of work.

Truist is an Equal Opportunity Employer that does not discriminate on the basis of race, gender, color, religion, citizenship or national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, veteran status, or other classification protected by law. Truist is a Drug Free Workplace.

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About Truist

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Truist is combining distinctive personal service with investments in innovation to create transformational client experiences. We believe the unique blend of human touch and innovative technology will set us apart, instill confidence, and build deeper levels of trust with our clients

Industry

Finance and insurance

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Charlotte, NC, US

Year founded

2019