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Cobol Programmer Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

Assembler and COBOL- CICS Developer

Columbus, OH · On-site

$47 - $63.50/hr

Assembler and COBOL- CICS Developer Demand Location - Day-1 onsite at Columbus OH 10+yrs of experience As an Assembler and COBOL- CICS Developer , you need to have strong background in IBM Mainframe ...

COBOL IDMS/ADSO

Cleveland, OH · On-site

$48.75 - $66/hr

Qualifications Required skills The successful candidate needs at least 5-8 years of mainframe COBOL, IDMS/ADSO computer programming, systems design, and analysis experience. MVS, JCL, TSO are also ...

Mainframe Engineer

Dublin, OH · On-site

$50 - $60/hr

Design, develop, test, and maintain mainframe applications using COBOL, CICS, DB2, and JCL ... Strong proficiency in: * COBOL programming * CICS online transaction processing * DB2 (SQL ...

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Cobol Programmer information

See Ohio salary details

$38

$55

$90

How much do cobol programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for cobol programmer in Ohio is $55.38, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41.15 and $64.23 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 Ohio? The most popular types of Cobol Programmer jobs in Ohio are:
What job categories do people searching Cobol Programmer jobs in Ohio look for? The top searched job categories for Cobol Programmer jobs in Ohio are:
What cities in Ohio are hiring for Cobol Programmer jobs? Cities in Ohio with the most Cobol Programmer job openings:
Infographic showing various Cobol Programmer job openings in Ohio as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 56% Full Time, and 44% Contract. Highlights an 89% In-person, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $115,187 per year, or $55.4 per hour.
COBOL Programmer

Contractor

Re-posted 15 days ago


Job description

Description
Slabe Machine is looking for a COBOL Programmer to edit and write code using the COBOL Programming language. We are using Hardware HPE 3000 Series 947LX. 

Key Responsibilities
  • Collaborate with Project Management and Business Groups throughout the SDLC process
  • Develop patches and new programs to enhance business functions
  • Support ATM implementation team in core conversions switch changes
  • Provide verbal and written reports, as needed
  • Assist with business project analysis, application systems analysis, and formulation of automated data migration, workflow solutions, programming, support, and project reporting logistics
  • Collaborate with system owners to establish technical specifications and objectives
  • Establish priorities for personal workloads
  • Write and maintain concise documentation on processes and procedures
  • Adheres to and contribute positively toward departmental standards and policies
  • Performs all other duties and projects as assigned

Skills Knowledge and Expertise
Bachelor's or Collage Degree in Computer Science, Education, Information Systems, Information Technology, Mathematics, Technical, Engineering, Management Information Systems, Math, Software Engineering