Mainframe developer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Role Name: Cards Mainframe Developer
Location: Chicago

JOB DESCRIPTION:

We are looking for an experienced Mainframe Developer with strong expertise in COBOL, JCL, DB, VSAM, and Unix Shell Scripting. The ideal candidate will be responsible for developing, supporting, and optimizing mainframe applications, building automation scripts, managing backend integration workflows, and ensuring reliability across production and batch systems.

This role requires strong technical skills, problem-solving capabilities, and the ability to work effectively with cross-functional teams.

• Develop, enhance, and maintain applications using COBOL, JCL, VSAM, and DB
• Troubleshoot, debug, and resolve mainframe application issues across development, testing, and production environments
• Optimize JCL, COBOL programs, and DB queries to improve system performance and efficiency
• Support daily batch processing, ensure job success, and resolve job abends promptly
• Develop and maintain Unix/Linux shell scripts for automation, batch scheduling, and system integrations
• Ensure seamless integration between Unix-based automation and mainframe backend systems
• Troubleshoot and enhance existing scripts, improving stability and execution performance
• Develop and maintain PL/SQL procedures, functions, packages, and triggers
• Perform SQL tuning and optimize database queries for performance
• Integrate shell scripts with relational databases (Oracle, DB, MySQL, or similar)
• Monitor scheduled jobs, resolve production incidents, and ensure overall batch stability
• Conduct root cause analysis (RCA) and implement permanent fixes
• Enhance performance of scripts, jobs, and database queries through continuous tuning
• Work closely with stakeholders to gather requirements and translate them into scalable solutions
• Participate in Agile ceremonies and collaborate with QA, business, and support teams
• Create and maintain technical documentation including design specs, support guides, and system documentation
• Strong hands-on experience in mainframe technologies: COBOL, JCL, VSAM, DB
• Solid expertise in Unix/Linux shell scripting
• Strong SQL and PL/SQL skills (procedures, functions, triggers, packages)
• Experience integrating shell scripts with relational databases
• Strong debugging, analytical, and problem-solving skills
• Good understanding of batch processing and automation workflows
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team
• Experience in banking, cards, or financial services domains
• Experience with ticketing tools and production support processes
• Familiarity with Git, CI/CD pipelines, or DevOps practices
• Knowledge of Python or Java for extended automation or backend integrations
• COBOL, PL/I, Assembler
• CICS, IMS, and system administration on DB/CICS/IMS
• REXX scripting for automation and migration tasks
• Strong troubleshooting skills for IBM mainframe product-related issues