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Cobol Programmer Jobs in Massachusetts (NOW HIRING)

Cobol Developer

Quincy, MA

$52.75 - $71.50/hr

Cobol Developer Location: Quincy, MA Duration: 1+ years Interview Process: Phone or Personal Interview (ideally personal interview) -> Hire Description: Position Description: Looking for a strong ...

MF Cobol developer

Boston, MA · On-site

$53.25 - $68.50/hr

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SENIOR SYSTEMS PROGRAMMER Z/OS SYSTEMS PROGRAMMER ~~ Z/OS ~ ~ MAIFRAME ~~ INTERNALS ~~ PRODUCT ... USER EXITS (REXX, COBOL, BAL/ASSEMBLER) * I/O CONFIGURATION EXPERTISE * Z/OS MAINFRAME PERFORMANCE ...

SYSTEMS PROGRAMMER Z/OS

Boston, MA · On-site

$90 - $120/hr

SENIORSYSTEMS PROGRAMMER Z/OS Hybrid Work Environment (3X Week On Site Required) Great Benefits ... USER EXITS (REXX, COBOL, BAL/ASSEMBLER) * I/O CONFIGURATION EXPERTISE * Z/OS MAINFRAME PERFORMANCE ...

New

Programmer Analyst

Boston, MA · Remote

$30 - $35/hr

Skills rpg, windows server, as/400, cobol Top Skills Details rpg,windows server,as/400 Additional ... software engineering related certifications a plus and/or an active desire to pursue such ...

Programmer Analyst

Boston, MA · On-site

$30 - $35/hr

Skills rpg, windows server, as/400, cobol Top Skills Details rpg,windows server,as/400 Additional ... Programming/software engineering related certifications a plus and/or an active desire to pursue ...

Mainframe Developer

Quincy, MA · On-site

$51.50 - $66.25/hr

Position : Mainframe Developers (Solid work experience from Capital Markets and Mainframe ... Expertise in PL/1 or COBOL, DB2, JCL, CICS, and OPC Scheduling. Preferred Skills : Familiarity with ...

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Cobol Programmer information

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How much do cobol programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for cobol programmer in Massachusetts is $63.62, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47.26 and $73.75 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 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.

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 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.

How much do Cobol programmers make?

Cobol programmers' salaries vary based on experience, location, and industry, but typically range from $60,000 to $120,000 annually. Senior developers with specialized skills in legacy systems and mainframe environments tend to earn higher wages.

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

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

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

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

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

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

What cities in Massachusetts are hiring for Cobol Programmer jobs?

Cities in Massachusetts with the most Cobol Programmer job openings:

Infographic showing various Cobol Programmer job openings in Massachusetts as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 15% Contract. Highlights an 85% In-person, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $132,322 per year, or $63.6 per hour.

$52.75 - $71.50/hr

Contractor

Re-posted 18 days ago


Job description

Job Description

Hi,

Kindly find below JD,

Role: Cobol Developer

Location: Quincy, MA

Duration: 1+ years

Interview Process: Phone or Personal Interview (ideally personal interview) -> Hire

Description:

Position Description:

Looking for a strong Cobol Developer to work on maintaining and enhancing existing mainframe applications with a large government environment. This is a long term position and in the coming years there will be new projects that also allow for new development work.

Must haves:

IDMS experience

Cobol programming experience

Experience with JCL, CICS and VSAM

Nice to haves:

Assembler experience

Thanks!


Qualifications

IDMS experience

Cobol programming experience

Experience with JCL, CICS and VSAM

Additional Information

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.


Saxon global logo

About Saxon global

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Saxon Global is a leading IT consulting and staffing company based in Irving, Texas. The company operates in the technology services industry and has been providing unparalleled services to its clients for over a decade. Saxon Global specializes in app development, business intelligence (BI), and data integration services. Established in 2007, the company was founded on the principle of harnessing the power of data and technology to drive business success. With their focus on innovation, quality, and superior service, Saxon Global aims to help businesses achieve their goals with significantly increased efficiency and effectiveness.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

201 - 500 Employees

Headquarters location

Irving, TX, US

Year founded

2000

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