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Cobol Programmer Jobs in Alberta (NOW HIRING)

You will report to the Software Engineering Team Lead and have a hybrid schedule working in Calgary, AB. Your Responsibilities: * Software Development: Write clean, maintainable, and efficient code ...

These are tools used daily by engineers and scientists at the world's largest energy companies and run as cloud-native SaaS platforms and as enterprise on-premises solutions. About the Role You own ...

These are tools used daily by engineers and scientists at the world's largest energy companies and run as cloud-native SaaS platforms and as enterprise on-premises solutions. About the Role You own ...

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Software Engineer

Edmonton, AB · On-site

CA$78K/yr

Software Engineer Location: 1139-10004, 104 AVE NW, Edmonton, AB CA T5J 0K1 Employment Type: Permanent, Full-Time Hours: 30 hours per week Wage: CAD $78,374 per year ($50.24 per hour) Language:

Communicate effectively with both technical and non-technical team members Requirements * 4+ years of experience as a backend developer * Good written and verbal communication skills * Strong ...

Cobol Programmer information

See Alberta salary details

$21

$47

$76

How much do cobol programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for cobol programmer in Alberta is $47.44, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38.46 and $54.81 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is there still a demand for COBOL programmers?

COBOL programmers are still in demand for maintaining and updating legacy systems in industries like banking, finance, and government. Many organizations require expertise in COBOL for critical mainframe applications, though new development opportunities are limited. Skills in mainframe environments and understanding of legacy code are valuable for these roles.

Is COBOL being phased out?

COBOL programmers are still in demand for maintaining legacy systems in banking, government, and insurance sectors. While new development in COBOL has decreased, many organizations rely on it, and expertise remains valuable for system updates and support. The language is not being rapidly phased out, but the job market is gradually shifting toward modernization skills alongside COBOL knowledge.

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 are COBOL Programmers?

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.

Do COBOL programmers work remotely?

Many COBOL programmers work remotely, especially as organizations adopt flexible work arrangements. Remote work for COBOL programmers often depends on the employer, project requirements, and the need for access to legacy systems, but it has become increasingly common in the industry.

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

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 typically earn between $60,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of projects. Senior or specialized programmers with certifications 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 popular job titles related to Cobol Programmer jobs in Alberta? For Cobol Programmer jobs in Alberta, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Cobol Programmer job openings in Alberta as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 12% Contract, and 5% Nights. Highlights an 76% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 20% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $98,667 per year, or $47.4 per hour.
Software Engineer

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago


Rockwell Automation rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 41 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

149th of 485 rated machine equipment manufacturers


Job description

Rockwell Automation is a global technology leader focused on helping the world's manufacturers be more productive, sustainable, and agile. With more than 28,000 employees who make the world better every day, we know we have something special. Behind our customers - amazing companies that help feed the world, provide life-saving medicine on a global scale, and focus on clean water and green mobility -our people are energized problem solvers that take pride in how thework we do changes the world for the better.

We welcome all makers, forward thinkers, and problem solvers who are looking for a place to do their best work. And if that's you we would love to have you join us!

Job Description

We're looking for a passionate Software Engineer to join our dynamic team developing commercial software solutions for the industrial automation space. In this role, you'll contribute to the design, development, and testing of high-quality software products that are robust, scalable, secure, and user-friendly.

You'll work with teams throughout the software development lifecycle, gaining exposure to modern technologies and engineering practices. This is a great opportunity for someone who enjoys solving complex problems, collaborating with others, and growing their technical expertise in a supportive environment. You will report to the Software Engineering Team Lead and have a hybrid schedule working in Calgary, AB.

Your Responsibilities:

  • Software Development: Write clean, maintainable, and efficient code while responsibly using GenAI tooling to enhance productivity.
  • Testing & Debugging: Develop unit tests; resolve software defects.
  • Software Development Lifecycle: Involvement and support of the full development lifecycle, including requirement management, development, testing, DevOps infrastructure, compliance reviews, and delivery.
  • Collaboration: Work with product managers, designers, and other engineers to understand requirements and deliver high-quality features.
  • Documentation: Help create technical documentation for code, designs, and test cases.
  • Continuous Learning: Stay current with industry trends and new technologies; apply new knowledge to improve product quality and development practices.
  • Code Reviews: Participate in peer reviews to maintain code quality and share knowledge.
  • Support: Investigate internal and external customers with issues and defects with our software products.

The Essentials - You Will Have:

  • Bachelor's or Equivalent Years of Experience
  • Legal authorization to work in Canada. We will not sponsor individuals for employment visas, now or in the future, for this job opening.

The Preferred - You Might Also Have:

  • Master's degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related field.
  • Typically requires 2+ years of experience with a solid foundation in object-oriented programming, and familiarity with Agile methodologies and cloud platforms.
  • Proficiency in C#/.NET Core.
  • Understanding of object-oriented and procedural programming and design patterns.
  • Familiarity with developing applications for Linux and containerized environments.
  • Familiarity with Agile development methodologies.
  • Basic knowledge of microservices-based architecture.
  • Exposure to test automation and continuous integration pipelines.
  • Familiarity with modern programming languages like Go, Rust, Python.
  • Familiarity with responsible use of GenAI tools like GitHub Copilot.
  • Basic knowledge or experience with embedded systems, electronics, and microcontrollers.
What We Offer:
  • Health Insurance including Medical and Dental
  • Health Care Spending Account (HCSA - dependent on the plan chosen)
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Retirement plans
  • Paid Time off
  • Volunteering Time off
  • Employer Savings Plan Matching (includes RRSP, TFSA, and EPSP)
  • Employer Paid DC Pension
  • Maternity and Parental Leave Top-Up
  • Fitness Reimbursement Program
  • Flexible Work Schedule where you will work with your manager to enjoy a work schedule that can be flexible with your personal life.

This position is part of a job family. Experience will be the determining factor for position level and compensation.

At Rockwell Automation we are dedicated to building a diverse, inclusive and authentic workplace, so if you're excited about this role but your experience doesn't align perfectly with every qualification in the job description, we encourage you to apply anyway. You may be just the right candidate for this or other roles.

#LI-Hybrid

#LI-AC1

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer including disability and veterans.

If you are an individual with a disability and you need assistance or a reasonable accommodation during the application process, please contact our services team at +1 (519) 618-4899.

Rockwell Automation's hybrid policy aligns that employees are expected to work at a Rockwell location at least Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays unless they have a business obligation out of the office.


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About Rockwell Automation

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Rockwell Automation is a global technology leader focused on helping the world's manufacturers be more productive, sustainable, and agile. With more than 25,000 employees who make the world better every day, we know we have something special. Behind our customers - amazing companies that help feed the world, provide life-saving medicine on a global scale, and focus on clean water and green mobility - our people are energized problem solvers that take pride in how the work we do changes the world for the better.

Industry

Industrial automation equipment manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Milwaukee, WI, US

Year founded

1903

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