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Cobol Developer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Senior Java Developer

Ashburn, VA · On-site

$58.50 - $74.75/hr

We are looking for a Senior Java Developer to manage the software development life cycle, from planning and prioritizing to testing and release and help with the migration of a COBOL app to Java.

Sr Mainframe Developer / Support

Mclean, VA · On-site

$49.50 - $63.75/hr

Exposure to Job control language program execution Exposure to COBOL DB2 program coding, Application development using CICS Exposure to Processing VSAM datasets and Dataset allocation, ISPF/PDF

Mainframe CICS Systems Engineer

Mclean, VA · On-site

$49.50 - $63.75/hr

Assembler, COBOL and REXX coding and knowledge of CICS Exits Web application support in a CICS TS ... Application programming experience a plus. WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT FROM MORGAN STANLEY: At Morgan ...

Must be US Citizen** 6 month contract $45/hr plus medical benefits Herndon, Va The project is a 6 month contract where the candidate will convert Nomad online reports and batch programs to COBOL, SAS ...

C# Developer

Richmond, VA · On-site

$60 - $65/hr

C# Developer/Programmer Analyst 3 Richmond VA Hybrid Role, Candidate must be able to work on site ... languages (COBOL, PHP, C+, Java, Python, Coldfusion, etc.) would be a plus. · Ability to write ...

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Cobol Developer information

See Virginia salary details

$10

$55

$72

How much do cobol developer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for cobol developer in Virginia is $55.04, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47.88 and $64.81 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Cobol developer?

A COBOL Developer is a software programmer who specializes in using the COBOL (Common Business-Oriented Language) programming language to design, develop, maintain, and troubleshoot business applications. COBOL is a legacy language primarily used in mainframe computing environments, common in industries like banking, insurance, and government. COBOL Developers often work on updating, maintaining, or migrating older systems that are critical to business operations. Their responsibilities may also include analyzing existing code, optimizing performance, and ensuring systems comply with current regulatory and security standards.

What does a Cobol developer do?

COBOL stands for Common Business-Oriented Language. It is a programming language used in business applications. A COBOL developer works on developing applications using this programming language that operate on an organization's mainframe computers. Businesses use COBOL for large tasks, such as transaction and batch processing. As a COBOL developer, your responsibilities include coding new programs using COBOL or assessing and upgrading existing programs and applications to meet business needs and objectives.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Cobol developer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Cobol Developer, you need strong programming skills in COBOL, a solid understanding of mainframe environments, and experience with legacy systems, often supported by a degree in computer science or related field. Familiarity with tools like IBM z/OS, JCL, DB2, and transaction processing systems is typically required, along with knowledge of version control systems. Analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication help developers troubleshoot issues and collaborate with teams maintaining critical enterprise applications. These skills and qualities are essential to ensure the reliability and modernization of core business systems that depend on COBOL.

What are some of the common challenges Cobol developers face when working with legacy systems?

Cobol Developers often encounter challenges related to maintaining and upgrading legacy systems, such as limited documentation, outdated hardware, and code that was written decades ago by other programmers. Integrating Cobol-based applications with modern technologies and platforms can also require creative problem-solving and strong analytical skills. Collaboration with business analysts and IT teams is essential to accurately translate current business needs into the existing codebase while ensuring system stability and data integrity.

What is the difference between Cobol Developer vs Mainframe Developer?

AspectCobol DeveloperMainframe Developer
Required CredentialsProficiency in COBOL, JCL, DB2Proficiency in COBOL, JCL, DB2, and mainframe tools
Work EnvironmentLegacy systems, mainframe environmentsMainframe systems, enterprise IT infrastructure
Employer & Industry UsageFinancial, insurance, government sectorsFinancial institutions, government agencies, large enterprises
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for mainframe roles involving COBOLBroader role including system administration and maintenance

While both roles involve working with mainframe systems and COBOL, a Cobol Developer primarily focuses on coding and maintaining COBOL applications. A Mainframe Developer may handle a wider range of tasks, including system setup, maintenance, and integration within mainframe environments. The roles often overlap, but Cobol Developers are more specialized in application development.

Is there a demand for Cobol developers?

Cobol developers are still in demand for maintaining and updating legacy systems in industries such as banking, finance, and government. Many organizations require expertise in Cobol for critical mainframe applications, and experienced developers with knowledge of mainframe environments and tools are sought after. However, the overall demand is stable but limited compared to newer programming languages.

What are the most commonly searched types of Cobol Developer jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Cobol Developer jobs in Virginia are:

What job categories do people searching Cobol Developer jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Cobol Developer jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Cobol Developer jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Cobol Developer job openings:

Infographic showing various Cobol Developer job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 33% Full Time, and 67% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $114,485 per year, or $55 per hour.

Senior Java Developer

Maxiom Technology

Ashburn, VA • On-site

$58.50 - $74.75/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago


Job description

We are looking for a Senior Java Developer to manage the software development life cycle, from planning and prioritizing to testing and release and help with the migration of a COBOL app to Java.

Senior Java Developer responsibilities include gathering system and user requirements, building Java modules and testing features before release. If you have hands-on experience developing software with agile methodologies and are ready to lead our junior developers, we’d like to meet you.

Ultimately, you will deploy and maintain functional, secure and high-quality applications.

Responsibilities

  • Identify and analyze user requirements
  • Prioritize, assign and execute tasks throughout the software development lifecycle
  • Develop Java EE applications
  • Write well-designed, efficient code
  • Review, test and debug team members’ code
  • Design database architecture
  • Schedule product releases with internal teams
  • Document development phases
  • Ensure our applications are secure and up-to-date

Requirements

  • Work experience as a Senior Java Developer or similar role
  • Experience designing, building and testing Java EE applications
  • In-depth knowledge of popular Java frameworks like JSF and Spring MVC
  • Experience with Object-Oriented Design (OOD)
  • Good delegation and time management skills
  • Problem-solving abilities
  • BSc in Computer Science, Engineering or relevant field