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Cobol Programmer Jobs in Appleton, WI (NOW HIRING)

SECURA Insurance

Software Engineer

Neenah, WI · On-site

The Software Engineer at SECURA designs, develops, and supports scalable, secure software solutions that power agent and associate-facing technologies, working across the full software development ...

ITW Miller

Software Engineer

Appleton, WI

To support this effort, we are seeking a passionate embedded software engineer to be a key driver of developing software for new product development efforts to provide increased customer satisfaction ...

Miller Electric Mfg. LLC

Software Engineer

Appleton, WI · On-site

To support this effort, we are seeking a passionate embedded software engineer to be a key driver of developing software for new product development efforts to provide increased customer satisfaction ...

All JobsCobol Programmer JobsCobol Programmer Jobs in Appleton, WI

Cobol Programmer information

See Appleton, WI salary details

$39

$56

$93

How much do cobol programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for cobol programmer in Appleton, WI is $56.81, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42.21 and $65.87 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 cities near Appleton, WI are hiring for Cobol Programmer jobs? Cities near Appleton, WI with the most Cobol Programmer job openings:
Cobol Programmer jobs near you
Software Engineer

Software Engineer

SECURA Insurance

Neenah, WI • On-site

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago

Job description

The Software Engineer at SECURA designs, develops, and supports scalable, secure software solutions that power agent and associate-facing technologies, working across the full software development lifecycle. This role operates with a high degree of independence, provides technical leadership and mentorship, collaborates closely with cross-functional teams, and contributes to architecture, integration, and continuous improvement efforts. The ideal candidate aspires to maintain and support legacy applications in while also bringing expertise in modern .NET technologies, strong problem-solving skills, sound engineering judgment, and the ability to responsibly leverage and promote AI tools to improve delivery, quality, and team effectiveness.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Design, develop, and test robust, scalable software solutions across various application teams, including creating and managing APIs and data flows
  • Analyze, design, program, test, and implement new solutions, enhancements, or bug fixes to fulfill business needs or solve problems, utilizing all phases of the system development lifecycle (SDLC)
  • Develop integration solutions with third-party software and data integrations
  • Design, develop, and maintain existing Java Web third party framework, such as Duck Creek's Agency Portal
  • Design, develop, and maintain web applications using Blazor and .NET technologies
  • Leverage Artificial Intelligence responsibly to improve software delivery, code quality, testing, documentation, and operational efficiency across the SDLC
  • Follow SECURA guidelines on when and how to apply AI, selecting appropriate tools and techniques to solve real problems while maintaining security, quality, and compliance standards
  • Champion AI adoption within the team by modeling effective usage, sharing best practices, and integrating AI tools into daily development workflows where they add value
  • Coach and mentor other engineers on practical AI use cases (e.g., code generation, refactoring, test creation, troubleshooting, documentation), helping build confidence and capability across the team
  • Evaluate emerging AI tools and capabilities, providing input on opportunities, risks, and guardrails to ensure thoughtful, sustainable adoption
  • Partner with cross-functional teams to explore AI-driven solutions that enhance developer productivity, system reliability, and business outcomes
  • Monitor applications and resolve errors or alerts, including setting alerts to maintain stability, monitoring error logs, and automating administrative tasks
  • Participate in performance analysis and disaster recovery planning and testing
  • Participate in 24x7 on-call support rotation and bi-weekly production deployments
  • Participate on scrum teams and engage in sprint refinement, daily scrums, sprint planning, sprint demos, and sprint retrospectives
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to define, design, and ship new features
  • Support the Technical Lead and deliver on the strategy for implementation, ensuring quality and timely product delivery and establishing standard processes and best practices
  • Coach and mentor other developers, fostering a knowledge-sharing, team-oriented atmosphere
  • Identify and help mitigate risks and blockers for the team
  • Provide technical leadership of SDLC and source control
  • Perform code reviews across the department and contribute to centers of excellence by developing and enforcing best practices and code review standards
  • Deliver presentations to leadership and team members
  • Other duties as assigned

QUALIFICATIONS:
ESSENTIAL:
  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or an IT-related field
  • 5+ years of Software Engineering experience.
  • Experience with Java (object-oriented design/programming) and .NET

PREFERRED:
  • Microsoft Blazor
  • REST methods for integrations
  • Service-oriented architecture
  • P&C Insurance Industry experience
  • Experience with Duck Creek Software Solutions
  • Experience with Azure DevOps (ADO)
  • Experience with Azure AppServices

At SECURA, we are transforming the insurance experience by putting authenticity at the forefront of everything we do. Our mission is clear: we're making insurance genuine. We recognize that our associates are our greatest assets, and we invest in their well-being and professional growth. We offer opportunities for continuous learning and career advancement, competitive benefits, and a culture that champions work-life balance. Joining SECURA means becoming part of a dynamic team that values each individual's contribution and fosters a collaborative atmosphere. Here, you'll not only find a fulfilling career but also a place where you can make a positive impact every day.
SECURA Insurance strives to provide equal opportunity for all employees and is committed to fostering an inclusive work environment. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and walks of life.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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