Apply For Mainframe Apprenticeship

National Virtual Full-Time

Thank you for considering LaunchCode. Unfortunately, applications for this training are closed.

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Important Details

Are you a tech-savvy professional looking to break into a new field? A bootcamp graduate looking for a pathway to a career? Or a recent college grad looking to land your first job in technology? If so, LaunchCode can help. We are a national nonprofit that has launched almost 3,200 careers and provided free, skills-based training to more than 8,000 driven individuals.

Applications Accepted Feb 10, 2023 to Mar 09, 2023
Training Schedule May 01, 2023 to Oct 31, 2023, Monday-Friday 9-5pm CST

Entry-Level Mainframe Systems Engineer

We have an immediate paid training and job opportunity for an entry-level mainframe systems engineers with a Fortune 500 company.

Don't know mainframe yet? No problem! Selected candidates will enter a 12-month paid training and apprenticeship. $20/hour full-time during an immersive, comprehensive training curriculum and $25/hour full-time during the apprenticeship with on-the-job mentorship. Successful candidates will convert to permanent employment (with a salary bump and $5,000 completion bonus) with the company following the apprenticeship.

For many companies, their technical architecture is dependent on mainframe systems. However, most colleges no longer teach mainframe development, and many developers are retiring. Gaining mainframe experience can get you on the road to a high-paying, secure career.

CHECK OUT THIS INFO SESSION featuring representatives from LaunchCode and previous graduates of this program.

How Does the Process Work?

At LaunchCode, we know the job search is complicated. Here is what you can expect from us:

Sign up and apply on this page.
LaunchCode will review your application and invite selected candidates to interview, with instructions on how to prepare.
During the interview, a LaunchCode representative will provide more detail on the opportunity, asking behavioral and command line-based questions to assess your soft and technical skills.
Selected candidates will receive resume and interview preparation before interviewing with our Fortune 500 partner company to become a mainframe apprentice.
If selected by the company, you will begin the training and apprenticeship spanning 12 months, making $20/hour at the Fortune 500 company, starting in May. There will be a pay increase at the 6-month mark to $25/hour.
Finally, successful apprentices will launch mainframe careers at the company.

Qualifications

QUALIFICATIONS

At LaunchCode, we believe the most important attributes of successful developers are the passion, drive, and aptitude to succeed. If you love the command line, that is an added bonus!

To summarize, the ideal candidate has:

Eagerness to learn problem-solving techniques in Unix-based operating systems
A desire to work from the command line and understand the needs of users and team members
Curiosity about the software development life cycle, data management, security, and agile work environments
Ability to work full-time in the United States and a desire for your apprenticeship to become a more permanent job
Willingness to relocate flexibly across the US for apprenticeship opportunity following the training.

This Course Will Cover

z/OS
IBM Z
COBOL
TSO/ISPF
JCL
CICS
Digital Security
VSAM
DB2

Jobs You’ll Be Able to Get

Mainframe Systems Programmer
Mainframe Programmer
Mainframe Developer

FAQs

FAQ

How does training work? What is the timeline?

The entirety of the training (May 1 - October 31) is remote and online from your own home. The material is designed to give you an overview of IBM Z system, knowledge of mainframe programming languages, practice with mainframes, and then product-specific training in one of three areas: Security, Endevor, or Datacom. Finally, in November 2023 you will begin your apprenticeship with the hiring company, where you will receive 1-on-1 mentorship and the ability to convert to a full-time more permanent employee.

How is working on the mainframe similar to software development?

The concepts are very similar, but the programming languages you use (JCL, REXX, and Assembler) have different syntax. If you already know Java, that's great, because it is often used in the mainframe. SQL skills also translate well, as you will interact with similar databases.

What makes mainframes so important?

Mainframes have run for more than 50 years at many large companies. In some instances, they have millions of lines of code within them. They are central to many companies' technological infrastructures, so they are crucial for many businesses.

How many hours per week is training?

Training is full-time, 40 hours/week, M-F.

Will I get paid during training?

Yes! You will get paid $20/hour for the duration of the training. During the apprenticeship there will be a pay increase to $25/hour. After the apprenticeship is completed, the hiring company has the option to convert you to full-time more permanently and receive a compensation boost $5,000 bonus.

How likely am I to convert to full-time?

Very likely. Historically, 87% of LaunchCode candidates have converted to full-time employment. Our partners onboard trainees and apprentices with the full intention of hiring, so if you show up every day and work hard, your chances are very good.

Where will the final jobs be?

All over! We are looking for candidates willing to relocate with an open mind. We cannot guarantee any particular city.

How much money would I make after conversion?

Candidates who complete the training and paid apprenticeship with our partner company should expect a salary between $60,000 to $80,000.

Is the program available to individuals requiring H1-1B visas?

Unfortunately, no. The program is only available to individuals who can legally work in the US without sponsorship. This generally means you need to be a US Citizen or a lawful permanent resident (Green Card holder) to apply.

For more information, check out the recording of this ONLINE INFO SESSION featuring representatives from LaunchCode and graduates of this exciting program!