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Cobol Programmer Jobs in Missouri (NOW HIRING)

Mainframe Developer (Remote)

Chesterfield, MO · Remote

$48.50 - $62.25/hr

COBOL Development : Design, code, test, and maintain COBOL programs for mainframe applications * Mainframe Systems : Work with mainframe systems and associated technologies to ensure optimal ...

Mainframe Developer (Remote)

Chesterfield, MO · On-site +1

$48.50 - $62.25/hr

COBOL Development : Design, code, test, and maintain COBOL programs for mainframe applications * Mainframe Systems : Work with mainframe systems and associated technologies to ensure optimal ...

Mainframe CICS Programmer

Belton, MO · On-site

$43.50 - $55.75/hr

Knowledge of Cobol to support application developers. * Experience with Mainframe Websphere MQ. * Excellent oral/written communication skills Skills desired: * Assembler, COBOL and REXX coding and ...

Linux Systems Administrator

Kansas City, MO · On-site

$37.88 - $45.45/hr

Hands-on experience with Rocket Enterprise Server (formerly Micro Focus) - administering the platform that hosts COBOL workloads on Linux. * Exposure to Rocket Enterprise Developer (sufficient ...

COBOL(Mandatory) DB2(Mandatory) CICSJCL - Job Control Language VSAM As a Lead * You are responsible for managing a small team of analysts; developers; testers or engineers and drive delivery of a ...

L2 Engagement Leader

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

$80K - $158K/yr

Leveraging our holistic portfolio of capabilities in consulting, design, engineering, and ... JCL, COBOL, DB2, CICS - working knowledge sufficient to guide L2 team. • Open Systems: Java/J2EE ...

As a Software Engineer (C/C++), you will work directly on the core of our database and data ... COBOL, Python, Node.js, Java (JDBC), and/or PHP * Basic understanding of JIRA and Agile ...

As a Software Engineer (C/C++), you will work directly on the core of our database and data ... COBOL, Python, Node.js, Java (JDBC), and/or PHP * Basic understanding of JIRA and Agile ...

Senior, Software Engineer

Noel, MO · On-site

$90K - $180K/yr

This creates unique opportunities for engineers to combine traditional mainframe expertise with ... Strong understanding of enterprise mainframe environments with experience in COBOL, CICS, DB2, JCL ...

Senior, Software Engineer

Cassville, MO · On-site

$90K - $180K/yr

This creates unique opportunities for engineers to combine traditional mainframe expertise with ... Strong understanding of enterprise mainframe environments with experience in COBOL, CICS, DB2, JCL ...

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Cobol Programmer information

See Missouri salary details

$37

$54

$89

How much do cobol programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for cobol programmer in Missouri is $54.64, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40.58 and $63.37 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 the most commonly searched types of Cobol Programmer jobs in Missouri? The most popular types of Cobol Programmer jobs in Missouri are:
What job categories do people searching Cobol Programmer jobs in Missouri look for? The top searched job categories for Cobol Programmer jobs in Missouri are:
What cities in Missouri are hiring for Cobol Programmer jobs? Cities in Missouri with the most Cobol Programmer job openings:
Infographic showing various Cobol Programmer job openings in Missouri as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 84% In-person, and 16% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $113,649 per year, or $54.6 per hour.

$48.50 - $65.75/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago


Job description

Job Description :
  • Perform detail design, development, documentation, debugging and implementation of technical products, software programming applications
  • Provide technical assistance to resolve operating issues
  • Recommends alterations and enhancements to improve quality of products and/or procedures
  • Determine feasibility, cost and time required, compatibility with current system, and system capabilities
  • Translating high level requirements into functioning software
  • Provide On-call production support.

Required Skills:
  • 10+ years COBOL experience
  • Experience with DB2, JCL, and VSAM file systems
  • Experience with batch and screen programming
  • Possess in-depth knowledge of the tools and processes
  • Work well through self-directed effort while being able to partner with others
  • Solid application development and design experience, and recent development experience in COBOL/VSAM
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Desired:
  • Experience working with agile methodologies
  • Knowledge of Stratus Technology and Stratus COBOL
  • Unix knowledge
  • Healthcare or PBM experience