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Cobol Programmer Jobs in Rhode Island (NOW HIRING)

ClifyX

Mainframe Developer

Johnston, RI · On-site

$49.25 - $63.25/hr

ClifyX is seeking a Mainframe Developer with strong expertise in Mainframe and data masking ... The role involves analyzing existing COBOL and JCL jobs, understanding VSAM and QSAM files, and ...

HCL Global Systems Inc

Mainframe Engineer

Smithfield, RI · On-site

$47 - $60.50/hr

HCL Global Systems Inc is seeking a highly motivated Mainframe Senior Software Engineer to join ... Required : • 5+ years of mainframe software development experience using Cobol, DB2, JCL, VSAM ...

Harris

(Remote) Software Engineer

Carolina, RI · Remote

Develop and maintain COBOL application to support a production environment. * Write clean, scalable ... Proven experience as a Software Engineer or similar role. * Strong proficiency in MSSQL and ...

MIKEL

Software Engineer

Middletown, RI

Senior Software Engineer Full Software Development Lifecycle | Agile Scrum | CMMI Level 3 Position Overview MIKEL is seeking a highly skilled and motivated Senior Software Engineer to lead and ...

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All JobsCobol Programmer JobsCobol Programmer Jobs in Rhode Island

Cobol Programmer information

See Rhode Island salary details

$39

$57

$93

How much do cobol programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for cobol programmer in Rhode Island is $57.05, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42.36 and $66.15 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.

More about Cobol Programmer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Cobol Programmer jobs in Rhode Island? The most popular types of Cobol Programmer jobs in Rhode Island are:
What are popular job titles related to Cobol Programmer jobs in Rhode Island? For Cobol Programmer jobs in Rhode Island, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Cobol Programmer jobs in Rhode Island look for? The top searched job categories for Cobol Programmer jobs in Rhode Island are:
What cities in Rhode Island are hiring for Cobol Programmer jobs? Cities in Rhode Island with the most Cobol Programmer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Cobol Programmer jobs in RI? For Cobol Programmer jobs in RI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Cobol Programmer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cobol Programmer job openings in Rhode Island as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 85% In-person, 10% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $118,654 per year, or $57 per hour.

Mainframe Developer

ClifyX

Johnston, RI • On-site

$49.25 - $63.25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

Job Summary:
ClifyX is seeking a Mainframe Developer with strong expertise in Mainframe and data masking. The role involves analyzing existing COBOL and JCL jobs, understanding VSAM and QSAM files, and collaborating with an offshore team to implement K2View solutions.
Responsibilities:
• At least 10+ Years of experience as Mainframe Developer
• Should be able to analyze existing COBOL and JCL Jobs
• Should have experience or exposure to Test Data Masking
• Should be able to understand the VSAM and QSAM files on Mainframe
• Should be able to rewrite the COBOL/JCL Jobs tor K2View implementation
• Should have experience on complex data sets and copy books
• Should be able to understand and configure schedulers in Mainframe
• Should have experience in working with offshore team
• Knowledge of Agile methodology, sprint planning, PI planning
• Understanding of test management process and SDLC/STLC
• Excellent soft skills
Qualifications:
Required:
• At least 10+ Years of experience as Mainframe Developer
• Should be able to analyze existing COBOL and JCL Jobs
• Should have experience or exposure to Test Data Masking
• Should be able to understand the VSAM and QSAM files on Mainframe
• Should be able to rewrite the COBOL/JCL Jobs for K2View implementation
• Should have experience on complex data sets and copy books
• Should be able to understand and configure schedulers in Mainframe
• Should have experience in working with offshore team
• Knowledge of Agile methodology, sprint planning, PI planning
• Understanding of test management process and SDLC/STLC
• Excellent soft skills
Company:
ClifyX provides innovative business solutions which satisfy requirements for mission-critical reliability, scalability, interoperations. Founded in 1998, the company is headquartered in South Plainfield, USA, with a team of 501-1000 employees. The company is currently Late Stage.
ClifyX logo

About ClifyX

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

ClifyX is a well-established player in the IT Services sector that specializes in providing result-oriented technological solutions to a wide range of industrial verticals. Based in South Plainfield, New Jersey, ClifyX offers a comprehensive selection of IT services that include project staffing, application development, professional consulting, and other IT-based solutions. While the company's website, clifyx.com, does not divulge the exact founding date, it is clear that ClifyX has grown into a renowned name within their domain, thanks to their unwavering commitment to innovative practices. The company's mission statement revolves around harnessing the power of technology to assist their clientele in steering their respective businesses towards success.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

South Plainfield, NJ, US

Year founded

1998

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