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Cobol Programmer Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

DESE Research, Inc. is seeking a Software Engineer (Junior to Mid-Level) to support mission-critical software development efforts in a fast-paced, customer-facing environment. This role requires ...

DESE Research, Inc. is seeking a Software Engineer (Junior to Mid-Level) to support mission-critical software development efforts in a fast-paced, customer-facing environment. This role requires ...

DESE Research, Inc. is seeking a Software Engineer (Junior to Mid-Level) to support mission-critical software development efforts in a fast-paced, customer-facing environment. This role requires ...

DESE Research, Inc. is seeking a Software Engineer (Junior to Mid-Level) to support mission-critical software development efforts in a fast-paced, customer-facing environment. This role requires ...

Software Engineer OASYS, INC ., a Leading-Edge Government contractor in Huntsville Alabama, is seeking a Software Engineer to support our government customer onsite at Redstone Arsenal, Huntsville ...

Software Engineer OASYS, INC ., a Leading-Edge Government contractor in Huntsville Alabama, is seeking a Software Engineer to support our government customer onsite at Redstone Arsenal, Huntsville ...

This role is ideal for engineers who enjoy building performant software and want to grow into broader system-level and real-time development over time. We have offices across the United States ...

Software Engineer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$69K - $125K/yr

This role is ideal for engineers who enjoy building performant software and want to grow into broader system-level and real-time development over time. We have offices across the United States ...

This role is ideal for engineers who enjoy building performant software and want to grow into broader system-level and real-time development over time. We have offices across the United States ...

Software EngineerOASYS, INC., a Leading-Edge Government contractor in Huntsville Alabama, is seeking a Software Engineer to support our government customer onsite at Redstone Arsenal, Huntsville, AL.

Software Engineer OASYS, INC., a Leading-Edge Government contractor, is seeking applicants for a Software Engineer to support our customer in Huntsville, AL. Summary: OASYS, INC. is seeking a ...

Software Engineer OASYS, INC., a Leading-Edge Government contractor, is seeking applicants for a Software Engineer to support our customer in Huntsville, AL. Summary: OASYS, INC. is seeking a ...

Showing results 41-60

Cobol Programmer information

See Alabama salary details

$36

$52

$86

How much do cobol programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for cobol programmer in Alabama is $52.80, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39.23 and $61.20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Cobol Programmer vs Mainframe Developer?

AspectCobol ProgrammerMainframe Developer
Required CredentialsTypically a degree in computer science or related field; familiarity with COBOLSimilar credentials; often requires knowledge of COBOL and mainframe systems
Work EnvironmentPrimarily in legacy system maintenance, often in financial or government sectorsWorks on mainframe systems, including hardware and software components
Employer & Industry UsageFinancial institutions, government agencies, insurance companiesBanking, insurance, government, and large enterprises using mainframe systems
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

While both roles involve working with COBOL and mainframe systems, a Cobol Programmer mainly focuses on coding, debugging, and maintaining COBOL applications. A Mainframe Developer has a broader scope, including system integration, hardware, and software management within mainframe environments. Both roles are essential in legacy system operations, often overlapping in skills and industry usage.

What is a Cobol programmer?

COBOL Programmers are software developers who specialize in writing, maintaining, and updating programs using the COBOL (Common Business-Oriented Language) programming language. COBOL is widely used in legacy business, finance, and administrative systems, especially on mainframe computers. COBOL Programmers are often responsible for ensuring these critical systems continue to function efficiently, troubleshooting issues, and modernizing code to integrate with newer technologies. Their work is essential in industries like banking, insurance, and government, where COBOL-based applications remain vital.

What are some common challenges faced by Cobol programmers working with legacy systems?

COBOL Programmers often encounter challenges such as limited or outdated documentation, making it difficult to understand and maintain legacy code. Additionally, integrating COBOL applications with modern technologies can require creative problem-solving and specialized middleware. Team collaboration is crucial, as programmers frequently work with business analysts and system architects to translate business processes into code and ensure system reliability. Staying current with evolving regulatory and security requirements is also a key part of this role.

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

A Cobol Programmer should have a strong grasp of COBOL programming, mainframe systems, and experience with legacy codebases, often supported by a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with tools such as IBM z/OS, JCL, CICS, and database management systems like DB2 is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure reliable maintenance and enhancement of critical business applications that many organizations still depend on.

How much do Cobol programmers make?

Cobol programmers' salaries vary based on experience, location, and industry, but they typically earn between $70,000 and $120,000 annually. Senior or specialized programmers with certifications and extensive experience can earn higher salaries, especially in industries like finance and government that rely heavily on legacy systems.

How to become a Cobol programmer?

COBOL is a programming language used to write code for software programs. It stands for Common Business-Oriented Language and is most commonly used in business and financial applications. You do not need a degree to become a COBOL programmer, but many employers prefer candidates with a bachelor’s degree in computer science, information technology, management information systems, or a related field. Focus your coursework in programming languages, code development, and software development. Other COBOL programmers learn the coding language on their own through online courses or programs at vocational schools or community colleges. Obtain an internship or part-time job that enables you to learn COBOL and other programming languages. Since many administrative offices and business organizations use COBOL programming, you may want to take some administrative courses to gain an inside perspective on the industry.

What are the most commonly searched types of Cobol Programmer jobs in Alabama? The most popular types of Cobol Programmer jobs in Alabama are:
What are popular job titles related to Cobol Programmer jobs in Alabama? For Cobol Programmer jobs in Alabama, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Cobol Programmer jobs in Alabama look for? The top searched job categories for Cobol Programmer jobs in Alabama are:
What cities in Alabama are hiring for Cobol Programmer jobs? Cities in Alabama with the most Cobol Programmer job openings:
Infographic showing various Cobol Programmer job openings in Alabama as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 8% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 88% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $109,819 per year, or $52.8 per hour.

Software Engineer

DESE Research, Inc.

Huntsville, AL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 23 days ago


Job description

DESE Research, Inc. is seeking a Software Engineer (Junior to Mid-Level) to support mission-critical software development efforts in a fast-paced, customer-facing environment. This role requires strong C++ development experience, a passion for software quality, and the ability to develop and implement robust unit testing methodologies for complex software systems. If you meet these qualifications, we encourage you to apply!Job Details:The candidate will support the sustainment and enhancement of an existing software baseline for a complex defense system, with primary responsibility for improving software quality through comprehensive unit testing, automation, and repeatable software development practices. Development efforts will primarily be performed in C++, with the potential to support Ada-based software components as required.This role includes reviewing existing software and unit tests, identifying gaps in test coverage, developing new automated unit tests, and helping establish a repeatable testing methodology that integrates into daily build and regression test cycles. The successful candidate will work closely with software engineers, systems engineers, quality assurance personnel, and customer representatives to improve software reliability while supporting ongoing software development and modernization efforts.A successful candidate will possess strong software engineering fundamentals, demonstrate sound technical judgment, communicate effectively with technical teams and customers, and thrive in a collaborative engineering environment.Responsibilities:Develop, modify, and maintain software primarily in C++Support Ada software development efforts as requiredReview existing unit tests and evaluate software test coverageDesign, develop, and implement new unit tests for existing software componentsImprove automated testing capabilities to support repeatable daily build and regression testingAnalyze software defects, troubleshoot failures, and implement corrective actionsParticipate in software design reviews, code reviews, and technical discussionsCollaborate with software, systems, QA, and DevOps engineers to improve software quality and maintainabilityContribute to software documentation, testing standards, and engineering best practicesSupport continuous improvement initiatives focused on software reliability, automation, and long-term sustainmentRequired Qualifications:Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Software Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related technical disciplineStrong experience developing software in C++Experience troubleshooting software defects and supporting software integration activitiesUnderstanding of software development lifecycle processes, software quality practices, and configuration managementExperience working within collaborative software development teams using peer reviews and version controlAbility to work independently while supporting a customer-facing engineering environmentActive Secret security clearance or the ability to obtain and maintain onePreferred Qualifications:Experience developing software in AdaExperience supporting legacy software modernization effortsExperience with automated testing frameworks and regression testingExperience integrating automated testing into CI/CD or daily build environmentsExperience supporting complex real-time, embedded, or defense software systemsFamiliarity with Agile software development methodologiesExperience with static code analysis, code coverage tools, or software quality metricsExperience developing unit tests for complex software systemsFamiliarity with automated testing, regression testing, and build/test workflowsAbout DESE:For the past 43 years, DESE has provided industry-leading technical and engineering solutions in the fields of Defense, Energy, Space, and Environment. As a small, family-oriented business, DESE provides a compelling benefits package including a generous profit-sharing plan, competitive salaries, and perhaps most importantly, the opportunity to work alongside talented engineers leveraging cutting-edge technologies to solve complex and engaging problems.Why employees love working for DESE:At DESE, we are committed to creating a company that is known for its respect and care for employees. We understand that happy employees are what keeps our business going and we strive to provide the best opportunities for each individual working on our team! Here are a few reasons you will love working here:Competitive health, dental and vision insurance with affordable premiumsFlexible work schedulesTwo different flexible spending account optionsCompany paid life insurance with options for employee-paid additional coveragePerformance bonus programEducation reimbursement programCompany paid personal leave for approved philanthropic activitiesVacation, Sick & Holiday leaveRobust 401(k) profit-sharing planOpportunities for internal promotionsEmployee referral incentive programRewards and gifts for service anniversariesDisability Accommodation for Applicants – DESE Research, Inc. is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer and provides reasonable accommodation for qualified individuals with disabilities and disabled veterans in its job application procedures. If you have any difficulty using our online system and need an accommodation due to a disability, you may contact us at hrandsecurity@dese.com or 256-837-8004 x123.
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