Start Your Mainframe Career with LaunchCode

National Virtual

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

Click here for other opportunities.

Important Details

Are you a recent college grad looking to land your first job in technology? Are you a tech-savvy professional looking to break into a new field? If so, LaunchCode can help. We are a national nonprofit that has launched over 2,000 careers and have provided free, skills-based training to over 6,400 driven individuals.

Applications Accepted Mar 04, 2020 to Apr 24, 2020
Training Schedule May 26, 2020 to May 26, 2020, ...

Start Your Mainframe Career with LaunchCode

We have an immediate training and job opportunity for entry-level mainframe systems engineers. Don't know mainframe yet? No problem! We will provide 20 weeks of paid training at $20 per hour which leads directly into a six-month paid apprenticeship, after which you can convert into a permanent employee.

We are looking for candidates willing to relocate around the United States with high flexibility.

Long Live the Mainframe

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.

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 at the form on this page.
LaunchCode will review your application and invite selected candidates to interview.
During the interview, a LaunchCode representative will provide more detail on the opportunity, asking behavioral and Unix-based questions to assess your technical skills.
If you perform well, then you 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 training and a 6-month training apprenticeship making $20/hour at the Fortune 500 company, starting May 26.
Finally, successful apprentices will launch mainframe careers at the company. Historically, more than 80 percent of LaunchCode candidates have converted to full-time after the apprenticeship.

Schedule

Here is the training and apprenticeship schedule:

Virtual training May 26 - July 17.
In-person training in Pittsburgh, PA, July 20 - September 4
Product-specific training in one of the following three locations, September 14 - October 23
- Plano, TX: IDMS & Datacom
- Burlington, MA: Endevor
- Lisle, IL: Security
6-month apprenticeship in one of a variety of locations.
Convert to a full-time employee!

Qualifications

Qualifications

At LaunchCode, we believe the most important attributes of successful developers are the passion, drive, and aptitude to succeed. At the request of our company partner, a 4-year degree in any field is required. If you love the command line, that is an added bonus!

To summarize, the ideal candidate:

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
Ability to travel and participate in both virtual and in-person training
Be able to work full-time in the United States and a desire for your apprenticeship to become a full-time job
At the request of our hiring company partner, a 4-year degree in any field is required.
Willing to relocate to any of the 20+ cities for this permanent opportunity.

FAQs

FAQ

How does training work? What is the timeline?

The first few weeks (starting May 26) are remote and online from your own home. The material is designed to give you an overview of IBM Z systems. After a short break, you will go to Pittsburgh, PA on June 21 for in-person classes, where you will learn mainframe programming languages and practice with mainframes. Depending on your strengths, you will then receive specialized, product-specific training in either Plano, TX; Lisle, IL; or Burlington, MA starting August 17. Finally, in October 2020, you will apprentice with the hiring company, where you will receive 1-on-1 mentorship.

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.

How will I know if I will go to Plano, Lisle, or Burlington?

Each city trains in a different product. Plano trains IDMS and Datacom - two databases. Burlington trains in Endevor, a version control system a lot like Git for the mainframe. Lisle trains in security. Throughout the first couple of weeks, your trainers will work with you to identify your strengths and desires and place you in the product you are most likely to succeed long-term.

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 the company pay for transportation and lodging during training?

Yes, they will pay for all your transportation, travel, and lodging.

Will I get paid during training?

Yes! You will get paid $20/hour during training and the apprenticeship. After training, the hiring company has the option to convert you to full-time more permanently.

How likely am I to convert to full-time?

Very likely. Historically, 87% of candidates have converted to full-time employment. 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. Some potential cities include:

Plano, TX
Portland, OR
St. Louis, MO
Kansas City, MO
Cleveland, OH
Detroit, MI
Pittsburgh, PA
Various cities throughout the New England and Mid-Atlantic regions

How much money would I make after conversion?

Historically, our average starting salary is around $55,000/yr across all our programs. Candidates who complete the training and paid apprenticeship with our partner company should expect a salary in this range.

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.