ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Cobol Programmer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Marshall Technologies

COBOL Developer

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$49 - $66.25/hr

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 ...

Robert Half

COBOL Developer

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$95K - $115K/yr

COBOL Developer Location: Des Moines, IA - Hybrid Salary: $95,000 - $115,000 base (depending on experience) + bonus + exceptional benefits *** For immediate and confidential consideration, please ...

Saige Partners

Mainframe Developer

Davenport, IA · On-site

$46.50 - $59.75/hr

The successful Mainframe Developer will play a critical role in deciphering the functionality of ... Analyze existing legacy COBOL, JCL, and PL/1 code within the IBM Mainframe environment. * Break ...

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 ... Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or related field preferred. If you are ...

Accenture

Mainframe Specialist

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$70K - $196K/yr

Partner with cross-functional teams-architects, developers, QA, and business analysts-to gather ... COBOL, JCL, VSAM, CICS, DB2, Assembler, REXX, SPUFI, TSO/ISPF, or RACF. * Minimum 3+ years leading ...

RFA Engineering

Software Engineer - Displays

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$65K - $95K/yr

RFA Engineering (www.rfamec.com) is an engineering service provider dedicated to delivering our clients with timely engineering support and expertise. We are seeking an Entry-Level to Experienced ...

RFA Engineering

Software Engineer - Displays

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$65K - $95K/yr

RFA Engineering ( is an engineering service provider dedicated to delivering our clients with timely engineering support and expertise. We are seeking an Entry-Level to Experienced candidate to ...

Judge Group, Inc.

Software Engineer

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$68 - $73/hr

Site Reliability Engineer (SRE) / Production Support Engineer We are not accepting C2C or 1099 arrangements. Location: Des Moines, IA (Preferred) | Minneapolis, MN | Irving (Las Colinas), TX Duration ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsCobol Programmer JobsCobol Programmer Jobs in Iowa

Cobol Programmer information

See Iowa salary details

$37

$54

$89

How much do cobol programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for cobol programmer in Iowa is $54.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40.62 and $63.46 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.

More about Cobol Programmer jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Cobol Programmer jobs in Iowa?

The most popular types of Cobol Programmer jobs in Iowa are:

What are popular job titles related to Cobol Programmer jobs in Iowa?

For Cobol Programmer jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Cobol Programmer jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Cobol Programmer jobs in Iowa are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Cobol Programmer jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Cobol Programmer job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Cobol Programmer jobs in IA?

For Cobol Programmer jobs in IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Cobol Programmer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cobol Programmer job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 76% In-person, 19% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $113,802 per year, or $54.7 per hour.

COBOL / HP9000 Mainframe Programmer

Robert Half

Des Moines, IA • On-site

$90K - $115K/yr

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago

New

Job description

New position - COBOL / UNIX / HP9000 Mainframe Programmer Analyst – Insurance experience preferred !  

Location: Des Moines, IA – Hybrid; primarily onsite. Must LIVE IN DES MOINES. 

Compensation: $95,000–$115,000 base salary plus outstanding benefits

* For immediate and confidential consideration, please message **Carrie Danger on LinkedIn or email your resume directly. Contact information is found on my LinkedIn page. Please send me an invite as well !***

Amazing people focused culture where our financial services client is hiring an FTE Mainframe Cobol Programmer Analyst for a permanent, direct-hire opportunity with a stable and well-run organization in the Des Moines area. This role is ideal for someone who enjoys working in a collaborative environment where individual contributions are visible and valued.

You’ll be joining a well-established company with a strong leadership team, solid financial footing, and a close-knit technical group, make a meaningful impact while working alongside experienced teammates in a practical, supportive setting.

Why this role stands out:

•Strong base compensation with excellent benefits

•Hybrid work arrangement with most time spent onsite but the company culture is a 10

•Opportunity to work with a smaller, highly capable team

•Leadership that appreciates initiative and recognizes contributions

•A stable environment where long-term career growth is encouraged

•Positive culture built on professionalism, integrity, and teamwork

What we’re looking for:

•Hands-on experience with COBOL and JCL programming

•Background supporting or working within life insurance and policy administration systems

•Additional experience with HP9000, Unix, and/or Linux is highly preferred

•Someone who takes pride in producing quality work and looks for ways to improve systems and processes

This is a great fit for a professional who values stability, meaningful work, and the ability to see the direct results of their efforts within the business. 

* Salary up to $115,000. For immediate and confidential consideration, please message **Carrie Danger on LinkedIn or email your resume directly. My contact information is available on my LinkedIn page. You may also reach me by office at 515-303-4654 or mobile at 515-771-8142. You can also apply directly through our company website. No third-party inquiries, please. This client is unable to provide sponsorship or consider contract-to-contract arrangements. ***

What we’re looking for:

•Hands-on experience with COBOL and JCL programming

•Background supporting or working within life insurance and policy administration systems

•Additional experience with HP9000, Unix, and/or Linux is highly preferred

•Someone who takes pride in producing quality work and looks for ways to improve systems and processes

T

Robert Half logo

About Robert Half

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Founded in 1948, Robert Half pioneered the idea of professional talent solutions to connect opportunities at great companies with highly skilled job seekers. As business needs changed, we evolved to offer specialized talent solutions for finance and accounting, technology, administrative and customer support, creative and marketing, and legal fields. In 2002, we introduced our subsidiary, Protiviti, a global independent risk consulting and internal audit service, to support companies as they faced more strategic business challenges.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

San Ramon, CA, US

Year founded

1948

View All Robert Half Jobs