IBM Mainframe Developer (COBOL/PL/I)

About Peoplebank:
Peoplebank, part of RGF Staffing ANZ, is a leading talent solutions provider. We place the brightest IT & digital professionals into some of the region’s top employers. We are expert recruiters who have been placing IT & digital specialists with some of the most dynamic and recognised organisations in the Asia Pacific region for over 34 years.

About the Role:
Our Federal Government Client is seeking an IBM Mainframe Developer (COBOL/PL/I) to join their Passports IT Section and support the Department’s Passports Issuance and Control System (PICS). This is a long-term contract role for an initial 12-months, with 2 x 12-month extension options, located at our client’s Canberra office with a 5-day onsite working arrangement. Remote working may be considered at the client’s discretion and with prior approval.

As the selected candidate, you will:

• Develop, maintain and support IBM mainframe applications across the full software development lifecycle.
• Write well-designed, testable and efficient code to meet agreed delivery milestones.
• Work with COBOL, PL/I, CICS, JCL, VSAM, DB2 and other mainframe technologies.
• Produce technical specifications and assess the operational feasibility of proposed solutions.
• Integrate software components into fully functional software systems.
• Perform unit and component testing and support functional and non-functional testing activities.
• Investigate, troubleshoot and resolve technical issues, including production incidents and application defects.
• Support code deployment and release activities in accordance with established change and release processes.
• Collaborate with project managers, business analysts, developers, ICT support staff and business users to deliver quality solutions.
• Maintain technical documentation and software functionality documentation.
• Take ownership of issues and drive technical queries and follow-ups through to resolution.
• Contribute to forward planning to ensure mainframe systems continue to meet future business requirements.
• Liaise with third-party suppliers and service providers as required.
• Provide technical advice and guidance to colleagues and management.
• Identify opportunities to improve software development and support processes.
• Participate in a rotating after-hours support roster.

To be successful in this role you should have:

• Strong experience with COBOL and/or PL/I, CICS, JCL, VSAM, DB2 and other IBM mainframe technologies.
• Experience with mainframe debugging and telemetry/monitoring tools.
• Strong knowledge of mainframe operating systems, including z/OS and/or z/VSE.
• Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills, with the ability to troubleshoot and resolve complex technical issues.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build strong relationships with technical and business stakeholders.
• Experience translating business requirements into technical solutions.
• Well-developed written communication skills and experience maintaining technical documentation.
• A minimum active NV1 security clearance.

It is desirable if you have:

• Experience with PL/I, VSAM and CICS.
• Experience with IBM MQ Series.
• Experience with Rocket Data z/Services.

Due to security clearance requirements for this role, candidates must be Australian citizens with an active NV1 security clearance.

Benefits of being a Peoplebank candidate:

• Personalised Attention: You’ll be assigned a dedicated Account Manager to support your unique needs.
• User-Friendly Services and Ongoing Support: Easy online timesheet lodgement, plus full access to contractor care, payroll, and admin support throughout your contract.
• Choice and Flexibility: A wide variety of contracting options tailored to your preferences and circumstances.
• Industry-Leading Payroll Services: Enjoy the reliability of accurate, on-time weekly payments.
• Contractor Satisfaction Focus: Our goal is to be your top choice for IT contracting and permanent roles—with your success at the centre of everything we do.

Apply now for immediate consideration – contact Mariz Arroyo at Mariz.Arroyo@peoplebank.com.au quoting Job Reference: # 272184.

Applications close: Monday, 28 September 2026

Please note: Only candidates that meet the above criteria will be contacted. Thank you for your interest in the position.


Peoplebank and Leaders IT are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone belongs. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, identities, and experiences. If you need adjustments to the recruitment process due to your circumstances, please let us know—we’re here to support you.