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Mainframe Application Developer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Teradata

Sr. Mainframe Application Developer

$50.25 - $64.50/hr

They are seeking a skilled Mainframe Developer to support and evolve mainframe-based connectivity ... application performance using tools such as SDSF and SMF • Collect, analyze, and debug system ...

Teradata

Sr. Mainframe Application Developer

$50.25 - $64.50/hr

They are seeking a skilled Mainframe Developer to support and evolve mainframe-based connectivity ... application performance using tools such as SDSF and SMF • Collect, analyze, and debug system ...

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Mainframe Application Developer information

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$10

$48

$66

How much do mainframe application developer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for mainframe application developer in the United States is $48.94, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43.51 and $56.97 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Mainframe Application Developer vs Mainframe Systems Analyst?

AspectMainframe Application DeveloperMainframe Systems Analyst
Primary RoleDesigning, coding, and testing mainframe applicationsAnalyzing system requirements and optimizing mainframe processes
Skills & CertificationsCOBOL, JCL, DB2, certifications in mainframe developmentSystem analysis, troubleshooting, and documentation skills
Work EnvironmentDevelopment teams, coding in mainframe environmentsCollaborating with users and IT teams to improve systems
Industry UsageFinancial services, insurance, government agenciesSame industries, focusing on system analysis and process improvement

While both roles work within mainframe environments and require similar certifications, Mainframe Application Developers focus on creating and maintaining mainframe applications, whereas Mainframe Systems Analysts analyze and improve existing systems and processes. Both roles are essential in industries relying on mainframe technology, but their daily tasks and focus areas differ.

What are mainframe application developers?

Mainframe application developers are IT professionals who design, develop, maintain, and support software applications that run on mainframe computers. These specialists work with programming languages like COBOL, PL/I, or Assembler and use tools specific to mainframe environments such as IBM z/OS. Their responsibilities often include updating legacy systems, ensuring software reliability, and integrating mainframe applications with modern technologies. They play a crucial role in industries like banking, insurance, and government, where mainframes are essential for handling large-scale transaction processing.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Mainframe Application Developer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Mainframe Application Developer, you need expertise in COBOL, JCL, DB2, and a solid understanding of mainframe operating systems, often backed by a degree in computer science or related fields. Familiarity with tools like IBM z/OS, TSO/ISPF, and version control systems such as Endevor is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication skills set successful developers apart in this role. These competencies are crucial for maintaining legacy systems, ensuring data integrity, and supporting critical business operations efficiently.

How does a Mainframe Application Developer typically interact with cross-functional teams in an organization?

Mainframe Application Developers often collaborate closely with business analysts, QA testers, and infrastructure teams to ensure applications meet business requirements and integrate smoothly with other systems. They participate in regular meetings to discuss project updates, troubleshoot issues, and clarify technical specifications. Effective communication is key, as developers may need to explain complex mainframe concepts to non-technical stakeholders and work with diverse teams to deliver high-quality, reliable software solutions.
More about Mainframe Application Developer jobs
What states have the most Mainframe Application Developer jobs? States with the most job openings for Mainframe Application Developer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Mainframe Application Developer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Mainframe Application Developer jobs are:
Mainframe Application Developer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Mainframe Application Developer job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 2% Part Time, 7% Temporary, and 12% Contract. Highlights an 80% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $101,800 per year, or $48.9 per hour.

Mainframe Application Developer

Synectics for Management Decisions Inc

Indianapolis, IN • Remote

Full-time

Posted 23 days ago

Job description

About the Role


We are seeking a Mainframe Application Developer with COBOL/CICS experience to support a mission-critical federal program responsible for high-volume financial and transactional processing. This role operates within a secure IBM mainframe environment and is integral to maintaining system stability, performance, and compliance. The ideal candidate brings strong technical expertise in legacy systems while contributing to ongoing modernization initiatives aligned with federal IT transformation goals. This position is contingent upon contract award.

Key Responsibilities

  • Analyze federal program requirements, change requests, and user needs to develop compliant technical solutions
  • Design, develop, and maintain COBOL applications in both CICS (online) and batch processing environments
  • Execute unit testing and support integration and user acceptance testing (UAT) activities
  • Participate in code reviews, technical walkthroughs, and controlled implementation processes
  • Troubleshoot and resolve production issues in accordance with SLA requirements and operational procedures
  • Support all phases of the Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC) in alignment with federal standards and governance
  • Prepare impact analyses and Level of Effort (LOE) estimates to support project planning and contract deliverables
  • Maintain thorough system documentation in compliance with audit and regulatory requirements
  • Adhere to secure coding practices and configuration management processes
  • Contribute to modernization initiatives, including system integration, refactoring, and cloud-aligned transformation efforts

Required Qualifications

  • Minimum 5 years of experience in mainframe application development supporting enterprise systems
  • Demonstrated experience with:
    • COBOL
    • CICS
    • JCL
    • SQL
  • Hands-on experience within IBM z/OS environments
  • Strong analytical, problem-solving, and debugging skills
  • Experience supporting production systems in a controlled, compliance-driven environment

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience supporting federal financial, payroll, or high-volume transaction systems
  • Familiarity with DB2, VSAM, or IDMS
  • Experience working within Agile or hybrid Agile environments in the federal space
  • Exposure to federal IT modernization efforts, including cloud migration, legacy system transformation, or DevSecOps practices
  • Understanding of federal security and compliance frameworks (e.g., FISMA, NIST)

Clearance & Eligibility Requirements

  • U.S. Citizenship required
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a federal security clearance or public trust

Synectics is an Equal Opportunity Employer