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Cobol Contractor Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

Apex Systems

Mainframe Developer

Coppell, TX · On-site

$45.50 - $58.50/hr

Develop and maintain COBOL programs for batch and online processing in CICS regions. * Design and ... and contracted partners. Frequency varies for text messages. Message and data rates may apply.

Apex Systems

Mainframe Developer

Coppell, TX · On-site

$104 - $135/hr

Develop and maintain COBOL programs for batch and online processing in CICS regions.* Design and ... and contracted partners. Frequency varies for text messages. Message and data rates may apply.

Photon

Senior Systems Analyst- Dallas, TX

Dallas, TX

Strong proficiency in COBOL analysis and debugging * Experience with JCL (Job Control Language) and ... This position is not available for independent contractors No applications will be considered if ...

Photon

Senior Systems Analyst- Dallas, TX

Dallas, TX · On-site

Strong proficiency in COBOL analysis and debugging * Experience with JCL (Job Control Language) and ... This position is not available for independent contractors No applications will be considered if ...

Apex Systems

Senior Gen-AI Software Engineer

Southlake, TX · On-site

$115K - $152K/yr

... COBOL/DB2 to Java/SQL or MongoDB-based applications). * Hands-on experience with Large Language ... and contracted partners. Frequency varies for text messages. Message and data rates may apply.

All JobsCobol Contractor JobsCobol Contractor Jobs in Texas

Cobol Contractor information

See Texas salary details

$9

$37

$67

How much do cobol contractor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for cobol contractor in Texas is $37.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.89 and $46.72 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Cobol contractor?

Cobol Contractors are IT professionals who specialize in working with COBOL, a legacy programming language widely used in mainframe systems, especially in industries like banking, insurance, and government. They are typically hired on a contract basis to maintain, update, or migrate existing COBOL applications. Many organizations rely on Cobol Contractors to ensure the stability and compliance of their critical business systems, as in-house expertise in COBOL has decreased over the years. Their responsibilities can range from fixing bugs and optimizing code to integrating COBOL systems with newer technologies.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Cobol contractor?

To thrive as a COBOL Contractor, you need strong expertise in COBOL programming, mainframe environments, and legacy system maintenance, typically backed by experience in financial or government sectors. Familiarity with tools such as IBM z/OS, JCL, DB2, and version control systems is commonly required, along with relevant certifications in mainframe technologies. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help contractors collaborate with teams and understand legacy business logic. These skills ensure the smooth functioning, modernization, and integration of critical systems that rely on COBOL in many large organizations.

What are some common challenges faced by Cobol contractors when working with legacy systems in modern organizations?

COBOL Contractors often encounter challenges related to integrating legacy COBOL applications with newer technologies and systems. These challenges can include deciphering outdated or poorly documented code, overcoming compatibility issues with modern databases or platforms, and ensuring that updates do not disrupt critical business operations. Additionally, contractors may need to collaborate closely with other IT professionals, such as business analysts and newer language developers, to bridge knowledge gaps and facilitate smooth transitions. Adaptability and strong problem-solving skills are essential for navigating these complexities.

What is the difference between Cobol Contractor vs Cobol Developer?

AspectCobol ContractorCobol Developer
CredentialsTypically requires experience in COBOL, possibly certifications in mainframe technologiesRequires COBOL knowledge, often with similar certifications or training
Work EnvironmentContract-based, often on short-term projects, working in mainframe or legacy system environmentsFull-time or freelance, working on COBOL applications within organizations or consulting firms
Employer & IndustryHired by companies needing temporary COBOL expertise, mainly in finance, insurance, and government sectorsEmployers include financial institutions, government agencies, and IT firms maintaining COBOL systems

Both roles focus on COBOL programming, but a Cobol Contractor typically works on short-term projects and is hired for specific tasks, while a Cobol Developer may have ongoing responsibilities within an organization. The main difference lies in employment type and project duration.

Are Cobol Contractor jobs still in demand?

Cobol contractor jobs remain in demand in industries such as banking and finance, where legacy systems still rely on Cobol for critical operations. Many organizations seek experienced Cobol developers for maintenance, modernization, and migration projects, often requiring knowledge of mainframe environments and tools like JCL and CICS.

Does Cobol Contractor have a future?

Cobol contractors are likely to remain in demand for maintaining legacy systems in finance, government, and insurance sectors, as many organizations still rely on Cobol-based applications. However, the industry is gradually shifting toward modern programming languages, so long-term opportunities may require additional skills in newer technologies. Staying updated with related tools and certifications can enhance job prospects in this field.

What are popular job titles related to Cobol Contractor jobs in Texas?

For Cobol Contractor jobs in Texas, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Cobol Contractor jobs in Texas look for?

The top searched job categories for Cobol Contractor jobs in Texas are:

What cities in Texas are hiring for Cobol Contractor jobs?

Cities in Texas with the most Cobol Contractor job openings:

Cobol Contractor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cobol Contractor job openings in Texas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 15% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $77,918 per year, or $37.5 per hour.

IMS Application Database Administrator

Allied Consultants, Inc.

Austin, TX

Contractor

Medical, Life, Retirement

Posted yesterday

New

Job description

Allied Consultants, Inc is a proudly Austin based firm with over 34 years of experience delivering top-tier technical and business professionals within Texas State Agencies. We are currently seeking an experience IMS Application Database Administrator to play a key role within a high-impact technical services team.

At Allied Consultants, we value our consultants and are committed to providing an exceptional experience including:

  • Highly competitive pay rates
  • Local support staff for responsive, personal service
  • Comprehensive benefits package, including:
    • Medical insurance (with employer cost sharing)
    • Life insurance
    • A 401(K) plan with company match
    • Flexible spending through a cafeteria plan

Candidates selected for interviews will be subject to a criminal background check and may be required to pass a drug screening, in compliance with federal and state regulations. All offers of employment are contingent upon successful completion of these checks.

Allied Consultants is a proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.


  •  Provides technical leadership and guidance to the mainframe IMS application teams and collaborate with the Mainframe Systems teams to ensure the applications are highly available. Provide DBA maintenance and development support of application databases in all environments (development, acceptance, and production). Work will involve highly advanced (senior-level) systems administration in support of agency mainframe applications and supporting infrastructure; and coordination of day-to-day system administration functions. As the DBA, you will conduct performance monitoring and tuning activities, backup and recovery as well as troubleshooting applications on IMS databases.
  • Routine system administration functions to include performance monitoring, security monitoring, and maintenance.
  • Work includes supporting production control processes, overseeing and coordinating mainframe operations in the State’s Consolidated Data Center Services (DCS), and working with the Network Administration, Customer Support and Applications Development & Support teams to provide support necessary for day-to-day mainframe operations.

The Worker will apply their expert knowledge and experience as a Mainframe IMS Application Database Administrator to support both the needs of the Legacy Systems as well as those for the Mainframe Transformation Team.


IMPORTANT: This position is for a hands-on Application IMS DBA, not for a DB2 DBA.

WORKER SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS 
  • Administer mainframe application IMS databases.
    • As the DBA, you will conduct performance monitoring and tuning activities, backup and recovery as well as troubleshooting applications on IMS databases.
    • Proficient with using DBRC/RECONS and List reports
    • Proficient with performing DBRC forward recoveries
    • Experience with selecting points in time to do valid recoveries and performing actual database recoveries.
    • Knowledgeable of IBM IMS utilities and familiar with vendor utilities.
    • Create, modify and maintain IMS database descriptions.
    • Add, remove and re-org database records as needed.
    • Monitor and maintain IMS database performance.
  • Application support issues that involve IMS databases.
    • Assist application programmers on DBRC issues in the test environment
    • Research and resolve DBRC related abends in the production environment
    • Refresh Dev/Test databases with prod backup images as requested.
  • Maintain Mainframe Operating Systems Administration.
  • Coordinate testing of mainframe software upgrades and Disaster Recovery plans with DCS vendor.
    • Assist primary agency DCS contact with problem management and change management activities.
    • Maintains knowledge of DCS vendor standards and reports agency system non-compliance to management.
    • Coordinates the testing and deployment of mainframe software upgrades with DCS contractor.
    • Reviews and tests mainframe disaster recovery plans with DCS contractor.
  • Maintain and provide technical support for Mainframe Production Control and Support Jobs and monthly Mainframe Job Scheduler.
  • Support agency application development work by creating and maintaining procedures for use during application deployments; and creating and expanding application environments during development.
  • Provide technical assistance to programmers and operations personnel for all problems and testing that involves mainframe operations.
  • Provide after-hour support for nightly batch Mainframe schedule COBOL and JCL programs.

**Location of job: Remote**


Minimum (Required):

Years

Skills/Experience

7

Experience with z/OS Systems platform

7

Experience in basic z/OS utilities: TSO, SYSVIEW and/or SDSF, JSF, Basic IBM utilities IDCAMS, IEBGENER, IEFBR14

5

Experience with mainframe application IMS database administration

5

Experience with DBRC and forward recoveries

5

Experience with Batch and CICS Cobol, IMS programming and problem resolution

5

Experience developing and troubleshooting complex JCL

5

Experience with JCL, CICS, VSAM, and TSO

2

Experience writing, analyzing, and debugging REXX programs in a z/OS environment

2

Experience with IMS HAL databases

2

Experience with IMS Catalog

Preferred (Optional):

Years

Skills/Experience

5+

Working knowledge of Top-Secret setup, administration, and reporting.

3+

Experience with ISPF panels, skeletons and REXX code

3+

Experience with ISMF storage functions

2

Experience maintaining mainframe printer assignments, including working knowledge of IPPrintway

Working knowledge of batch SFTP and FTPS processing

Working knowledge of Informatica Power Exchange software using mainframe datasets (IMS and VSAM) as either a source or target for change data capture

Experience with logically related application IMS databases

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