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Cobol Programmer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

COBOL Programmer This is Mandeep Singh from US IT Solutions. We offers services in IT staffing, Mobile development, Web development and Cloud computing. US IT Solutions work along with its clients to ...

US IT Solutions work along with its clients to deliver high-performance results, based exclusively on the one of a kind requirement. - At least 10 years of coding experience with COBOL, DB2, SQL, JCL ...

Mainframe Cobol Developer

Mclean, VA · On-site

$50.25 - $64.75/hr

Mainframe Cobol Developer Location: McLean VA (Onsite) Fulltime only Develop COBOL code for application solutions based on technical program specifications utilizing Key and/or Netron Fusion. Perform ...

Software Engineer (Mainframe, Cobol, CICS)

Reston, VA · On-site

$51 - $65.50/hr

Software Engineer (Mainframe, Cobol, CICS) Reston, VA Onsite 1x per month BCBS 2-3 rounds - Onsite / F2F in Reston is mandatory as a final round Seeking a Mainframe Cobol Software Engineer to support ...

Tata Consultancy Services is seeking a skilled Engineer with a strong background in COBOL and mainframe technologies. The role involves designing, developing, and maintaining COBOL/JCL-based ...

Mainframe Developer- COBOL & JCL

Mclean, VA · On-site

$50.25 - $64.75/hr

Overview: Must Have Technical/Functional Skills • Strong hands-on experience with COBOL (Batch & Online) • Proficient in JCL including job scheduling, utilities, and restart/recovery • ...

z/OS Mainframe Developer (Remote)

Alexandria, VA · Remote

$52.50 - $67.50/hr

A degree from an accredited College/University in Software Engineering, Computer Science, or related discipline is required. * 8+ years of hands-on experience with COBOL programming on IBM z/OS.

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Cobol Programmer information

See Virginia salary details

$40

$57

$94

How much do cobol programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for cobol programmer in Virginia is $57.75, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42.88 and $66.97 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 Virginia? The most popular types of Cobol Programmer jobs in Virginia are:
What job categories do people searching Cobol Programmer jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Cobol Programmer jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Cobol Programmer jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Cobol Programmer job openings:
COBOL Programmer

COBOL Programmer

Tech Marketing

Richmond, VA • On-site

Other

Posted 13 days ago


Job description

COBOL Programmer

This is Mandeep Singh from US IT Solutions. We offers services in IT staffing, Mobile development, Web development and Cloud computing. US IT Solutions work along with its clients to deliver high-performance results, based exclusively on the one of a kind requirement.

Job Description

- At least 10 years of coding experience with COBOL, DB2, SQL, JCL, and TSO/ISPF in an IBM mainframe

- At least 5 years of experience with CICS, SPUFI, and IBM Utilities.

Thanks and regards, Mandeep Singh