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Cobol Programmer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Prescient Edge

Mid Computer Programmer

Chesapeake, VA · On-site

$90K - $100K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

The programming languages most often used are C, C++, and Java, with Fortran and COBOL used less commonly. Job Requirements Experience: * 3 years of professional experience in computer design ...

3B Staffing LLC

Mainframe Systems Engineer (T2P)

Reston, VA · On-site

$57.25 - $72.75/hr

... of Cobol, DB2, JCL, CICS. One or more of the following: CA7, DFHSM, FTP, HMC, ISPF, JES2, NDM, NET ... junior engineers - Base UNIX and Windows commands and structure. - Knowledge of DB2 commands ...

New

3B Staffing LLC

Mainframe Systems Engineer (T2P)

Reston, VA · On-site

$57.25 - $72.75/hr

... of Cobol, DB2, JCL, CICS. One or more of the following: CA7, DFHSM, FTP, HMC, ISPF, JES2, NDM, NET ... junior engineers - Base UNIX and Windows commands and structure. - Knowledge of DB2 commands ...

New

Stem Xpert

Mainframe developer

Mclean, VA · On-site

$49.50 - $63.75/hr

The company is primarily focused on information technology, engineering, healthcare, financial ... Experience in Mainframe (COBOL/JCL/DB2/IMS/CICS) - must have. Must have - Mainframe and IMS Good in ...

Maxiom Technology

Senior Java Developer

Ashburn, VA · On-site

$58.50 - $74.75/hr

We are looking for a Senior Java Developer to manage the software development life cycle, from planning and prioritizing to testing and release and help with the migration of a COBOL app to Java.

3B Staffing LLC

Sr. Mainframe Developer

Mclean, VA · On-site

$58 - $60/hr

Sr. Mainframe Developer in McLean VA Client: Capco/Freddie Mac Location: Fully onsite in McLean, VA ... Proven experience as a Mainframe Development with Cobol and JCL * Strong data analysis skills.

New

3B Staffing LLC

Sr. Mainframe Developer

Mclean, VA · On-site

$58 - $60/hr

Sr. Mainframe Developer in McLean VA Client: Capco/Freddie Mac Location: Fully onsite in McLean, VA ... Proven experience as a Mainframe Development with Cobol and JCL * Strong data analysis skills.

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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 Aug 13, 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.

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 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.

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 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.

How much do Cobol programmers make?

Cobol programmers' salaries vary based on experience, location, and industry, but they typically earn between $70,000 and $120,000 annually. Senior or specialized programmers with certifications and extensive experience 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 Virginia?

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

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

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

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Cobol Programmer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cobol Programmer job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 44% Full Time, and 56% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $120,121 per year, or $57.8 per hour.

Mid Computer Programmer

Prescient Edge

Chesapeake, VA • On-site

$90K - $100K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

Job Title
Mid Computer Programmer
Location
Norfolk, VA 23324 US (Primary)
Category
Research, Development, and Engineering
Job Type
Full-Time
Career Level
Staff
Education
Bachelor's Degree
Travel
Security Clearance Required
Secret
Job Description
Prescient Edge is seeking a Mid-Level Computer Programmer to support a Federal Government client.
Benefits & Compensation:
At Prescient Edge, we believe that acting with integrity and serving our employees is the key to everyone's success. To that end, we provide employees with a best-in-class benefits package that includes:
  • A competitive salary with performance bonus opportunities.
  • Comprehensive healthcare benefits, including medical, vision, dental, and orthodontia coverage.
  • A substantial retirement plan with no vesting schedule.
  • Career development opportunities, including on-the-job training, tuition reimbursement, and networking.
  • A positive work environment where employees are respected, supported, and engaged.
  • Salary range: $90,000 - $100,000. Salary to be determined by the education, experience, knowledge, skills and the abilities of the applicant internal equity, and alignment with market data.

Mid-Level Computer Programmer
Description:
  • Computer hardware and software engineers' research, design, develop, and test computer hardware and software programs. Hardware refers to computer chips, circuit boards, computer systems, and related equipment such as keyboards, modems, and printers.
  • Computer software engineers develop software systems that control computers.
  • Computer hardware engineers work exclusively with computers and computer-related equipment.
  • In addition to design and development duties, computer hardware engineers supervise the manufacturing and installation of computers and computer-related equipment.
  • Computer software engineers develop new computer software systems and incorporate new technologies into a rapidly growing range of applications.
  • Computer software engineers apply the principles and techniques of computer science, engineering, and mathematical analysis to the design, development, testing, and evaluation of the software and systems that enable computers to perform their many applications.
  • Software engineers analyze users' needs and design, construct, test, and maintain computer applications software or systems.
  • Computer software engineers can be involved in the design and development of many types of software, including software for operating systems and network distribution, and compilers, which convert programs for execution on a computer. They also solve technical problems that arise.
  • Software engineers must possess strong programming skills but are more concerned with developing algorithms and analyzing and solving programming problems than with writing code.
  • The programming languages most often used are C, C++, and Java, with Fortran and COBOL used less commonly.

Job Requirements
Experience:
  • 3 years of professional experience in computer design, software development or computer networks

Education:
  • Bachelor's level degree in Computer, Electrical or Electronics Engineering or Mathematics with field of concentration in computer science.

Security Clearance:
  • Security clearance required SECRET level.

Location:
  • Norfolk, VA

Prescient Edge is a Veteran-Owned Small Business (VOSB) founded as a counterintelligence (CI) and Human Intelligence (HUMINT) company in 2008. We are a global operations and solutions integrator delivering full-spectrum intelligence analysis support, training, security, and RD&E support solutions to the Department of Defense and throughout the intelligence community. Prescient Edge is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EEO). All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic that is protected by law. We strive to foster equity and inclusion throughout our organization because we believe that diversity of thought is critical for creating a safe and engaging work environment while also enabling the organization's success.
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About Prescient Edge

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Prescient Edge is a prominent name in the global security industry, based out of McLean, VA, US. Established with the primary mission of harnessing science and technology for safety and security purposes, the company specializes in providing a wide range of products and services. This includes research and development, consulting, global operations support, intelligence evaluation, and advanced data solutions. These offerings make Prescient Edge an integral factor in national defense and commercial innovations.

Industry

Guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

McLean, VA, US

Year founded

2008

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