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Cobol Mainframe Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Marshall Technologies

COBOL Developer

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$49 - $66.25/hr

We are seeking a seasoned COBOL Developer with 6+ years of experience in mainframe application development and support . The ideal candidate should have strong expertise in COBOL, JCL, DB2, and ...

TriOptus LLC

Mainframe Analyst

Des Moines, IA · On-site

The candidate will not be required to code in mainframe, but it will be very beneficial if they can read and understand Cobol, JCL, TSO and Job Track. Candidate will be required to create ...

Saige Partners

Mainframe Developer

Davenport, IA · On-site

$46.50 - $59.75/hr

Analyze existing legacy COBOL, JCL, and PL/1 code within the IBM Mainframe environment. * Break down complex code structures to understand underlying functionality and business logic. * Translate ...

RICEFW Technologies,Inc

mainframe analyst

Ames, IA · On-site

The candidate will not be required to code in mainframe, but it will be very beneficial if they can read and understand Cobol, JCL, TSO and Job Track. Candidate will be required to create ...

RICEFW Technologies,Inc

mainframe analyst

Ames, IA · On-site

The candidate will not be required to code in mainframe, but it will be very beneficial if they can read and understand Cobol, JCL, TSO and Job Track. Candidate will be required to create ...

Saige Partners

Mainframe Developer

Davenport, IA

$46.50 - $59.75/hr

Analyze existing legacy COBOL, JCL, and PL/1 code within the IBM Mainframe environment. Break down complex code structures to understand underlying functionality and business logic. Translate legacy ...

Accenture

Mainframe Specialist

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$70K - $196K/yr

COBOL, JCL, VSAM, CICS, DB2, Assembler, REXX, SPUFI, TSO/ISPF, or RACF. * Minimum 3+ years leading or executing mainframe modernization initiatives with a demonstrable track record of delivery.

Bitco Corporation

Mainframe Developer

Davenport, IA · Hybrid

$43.50 - $55.75/hr

IBM Mainframe experience in JCL, TSO, COBOL, PL/I, and Easytrieve * Systems analysis, design, and programming * Maintaining and writing code using current Microsoft products or languages specific to ...

All JobsCobol Mainframe JobsCobol Mainframe Jobs in Iowa

Cobol Mainframe information

See Iowa salary details

$9

$50

$67

How much do cobol mainframe jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for cobol mainframe in Iowa is $50.14, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44.23 and $56.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a COBOL Mainframe?

COBOL Mainframe jobs involve programming, maintaining, and supporting legacy business applications that run on mainframe computers using the COBOL (Common Business-Oriented Language) programming language. These roles are critical in industries like banking, insurance, and government, where mainframes still process large volumes of transactions. Typical responsibilities include developing new features, debugging existing code, and ensuring system reliability. Professionals in these positions often work with batch processing, databases like DB2, and tools such as JCL (Job Control Language).

Are Cobol Mainframe jobs still in demand?

Cobol mainframe jobs remain in demand in industries such as banking, finance, and government, where legacy systems are still operational. Many organizations seek experienced programmers for maintenance, modernization, and integration tasks, often requiring knowledge of mainframe environments and tools like JCL and DB2.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a COBOL Mainframe developer?

To thrive as a COBOL Mainframe Developer, you need strong programming skills in COBOL, knowledge of mainframe operating systems (such as IBM z/OS), and experience with databases like DB2, often supported by a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with tools such as JCL (Job Control Language), CICS, and version control systems is important, and some roles may require certifications in mainframe technologies. Analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication are essential soft skills to efficiently troubleshoot legacy systems and collaborate with cross-functional teams. These capabilities ensure the reliable maintenance, enhancement, and modernization of critical business applications that many organizations still depend on.

What are some typical challenges faced by COBOL Mainframe developers, and how can they be addressed?

COBOL Mainframe developers often work with legacy systems that can be complex and lack modern documentation, making troubleshooting and updates challenging. Collaborating with cross-functional teams to understand business logic, as well as investing time in code analysis tools and documentation, can help bridge knowledge gaps. Additionally, adapting to evolving business requirements while maintaining system stability is crucial, so strong communication skills and attention to detail are essential for success in this role.

What is the difference between Cobol Mainframe vs Cobol Developer?

AspectCobol MainframeCobol Developer
CredentialsTypically requires mainframe-specific certifications and experienceOften requires programming certifications and knowledge of COBOL
Work EnvironmentMainframe systems in large enterprise data centersVariety of environments including mainframes, servers, or cloud platforms
Industry UsageFinancial, insurance, government sectorsFinancial, retail, healthcare, and other industries
Job FocusMaintaining and operating mainframe systemsDeveloping, testing, and updating COBOL applications

While Cobol Mainframe specialists focus on maintaining and operating legacy mainframe systems, Cobol Developers primarily work on creating and updating COBOL applications across various environments. Both roles require knowledge of COBOL, but their daily tasks and work settings differ significantly.

Is the Cobol mainframe still used?

Cobol mainframes are still in use today, especially in large financial institutions, government agencies, and legacy systems that require reliable transaction processing. Many organizations continue to maintain and update Cobol applications, and skills in Cobol and mainframe environments remain valuable for maintaining these systems.
What are the most commonly searched types of Cobol Mainframe jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Cobol Mainframe jobs in Iowa are:
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Cobol Mainframe jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cobol Mainframe job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $104,283 per year, or $50.1 per hour.

COBOL Developer

Marshall Technologies

Des Moines, IA • On-site

$49 - $66.25/hr

Contractor

Re-posted 8 hours ago

Job description

Job Title: COBOL Developer

Location: Des Moines, IA (Onsite)
Duration: 12+ Months
Type: Contract (W2/C2C)

Job Overview:

We are seeking a seasoned COBOL Developer with 6+ years of experience in mainframe application development and support. The ideal candidate should have strong expertise in COBOL, JCL, DB2, and related legacy technologies. This role involves working closely with business analysts, QA teams, and other developers to maintain, enhance, and support critical business applications.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Design, develop, test, implement, and support mainframe-based applications using COBOL, JCL, DB2, VSAM, and CICS.

  • Translate application storyboards and use cases into functional programs.

  • Analyze business and functional requirements and convert them into scalable technical solutions.

  • Participate in the full software development life cycle including requirements gathering, design, development, testing, and implementation.

  • Troubleshoot and resolve issues in production and development environments.

  • Write clean, efficient, reusable, and well-documented code.

  • Perform performance tuning, code optimization, and debugging.

  • Participate in code reviews, testing activities, and contribute to automation and best practices.

  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure quality and timely delivery of solutions.

Required Skills & Qualifications:

  • 6+ years of hands-on experience in COBOL, JCL, DB2, VSAM, and CICS.

  • Experience with mainframe job scheduling and change management tools (e.g., Endevor).

  • Strong knowledge of SQL, data structures, and relational database principles.

  • Experience in reporting/analytics using mainframe tools and processes.

  • Solid understanding of scalable application design principles and software engineering best practices.

  • Familiarity with ServiceNow, Eclipse, DB Visualizer, or Microsoft SQL Server is a plus.

  • Excellent problem-solving and debugging skills.

  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills.

Preferred Attributes:

  • Ability to work independently as well as part of a team.

  • Strong organizational and documentation skills.

  • Experience in production support and handling critical business applications.

Tools & Technologies:

  • Languages: COBOL, JCL, SQL

  • Databases: DB2, VSAM

  • Transaction Processing: CICS

  • Version Control & Change Management: Endevor

  • Tools/Software: ServiceNow, Eclipse, DB Visualizer, MS SQL Server