Mainframe Modernization Specialist (COBOL/PL1)

Saige Partners; Davenport (IA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Saige Partners is seeking an experienced Mainframe Developer to help modernize mission-critical systems. You will analyze COBOL, JCL, and PL/1 on an IBM Mainframe, translating legacy code into clear specifications that guide modernization and integration.

You'll collaborate with cross-functional teams, act as the main source of technical insight on architecture and dependencies, and help shape the path from legacy environments toward scalable, modern solutions.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Information Technology, or a related field.
• Extensive hands-on experience with IBM Mainframe environments.
• Strong development and code-analysis experience with COBOL, JCL, and PL/1.
• Ability to perform deep-dive or forensic analysis of complex legacy code.
• Ability to translate legacy code into clear, actionable specifications.
• Excellent written and verbal communication with both technical and non-technical stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Conduct detailed analysis of legacy COBOL, JCL, and PL/1 code within an IBM Mainframe environment.
• Investigate complex programs and code structures to uncover functionality, dependencies, business rules, and underlying logic.
• Translate legacy code and business logic into clear, modern technical specifications that can be used to support modernization and integration efforts.
• Work closely with developers, engineers, business stakeholders, and other cross-functional teams to ensure legacy functionality is accurately understood and documented.
• Serve as a subject-matter expert on Mainframe architecture, applications, and legacy codebases.
• Identify relationships, dependencies, and potential challenges within the existing environment that may impact modernization.
• Provide technical insight and recommendations throughout the integration and modernization process.

Skills

IBM Mainframe

COBOL

JCL

PL/1

Forensic code analysis

Technical communication

Team collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science/Engineering/IT or related field

Job description

Saige Partners is seeking an experienced Mainframe Developer to help modernize mission-critical systems. You will analyze COBOL, JCL, and PL/1 on an IBM Mainframe, translating legacy code into clear specifications that guide modernization and integration.

You'll collaborate with cross-functional teams, act as the main source of technical insight on architecture and dependencies, and help shape the path from legacy environments toward scalable, modern solutions.