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Cobol Programmer Jobs in Appleton, WI (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Cobol Programmer information

See Appleton, WI salary details

$38

$55

$90

How much do cobol programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for cobol programmer in Appleton, WI is $55.44, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41.20 and $64.28 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.

What cities near Appleton, WI are hiring for Cobol Programmer jobs?

Cities near Appleton, WI with the most Cobol Programmer job openings:

Infographic showing various Cobol Programmer job openings in Appleton, WI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 8% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $115,308 per year, or $55.4 per hour.

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago


Job description

Job Description:

ITW Welding continues to build its capabilities in software development as a core competency in digitally controlled welding equipment, processes, and systems. 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 in several areas of our products.

This position will require a highly motivated individual with strong communication and interpersonal skills to work collaboratively with engineering teams, marketing, and product management to develop innovative and reliable products to serve our customer needs. The right candidate will bring a foundation of embedded software experience and accomplishments working with teams as a contributor and collaborator.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

  • Primary responsibilities include the design, development, testing, troubleshooting, and documentation of embedded software for various hardware platforms to support new product development initiatives and existing products.
  • Create efficient, reliable, and maintainable C/C++ code to control hardware devices, implement algorithms, and handle real-time operations. A critical part of this role is integrating embedded controls to achieve arc characteristics that continue delivering world-class arc welding performance.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional engineering teams (including power electronics and welding), project managers, and product managers to specify, design, develop, and support new product initiatives.
  • Stay updated with emerging technologies, industry trends, and best practices in embedded systems development to incorporate new techniques and tools into the software development process.
  • Identify areas for process improvement, propose innovative solutions, and contribute to the enhancement of software development methodologies and practices within the team.
  • Prioritize tasks, manage timelines, and effectively communicate progress and challenges to meet project deadlines and deliverables.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

  • A bachelor’s degree in computer engineering, computer science, software engineering, or electrical engineering with a minimum of 1+ years of industry experience
  • Experience designing, developing, testing, and debugging embedded software in alignment with the essential job functions above
  • Strong knowledge and experience in embedded systems development, including:
    • Object-oriented design in C/C++ code bases
    • Embedded memory management considerations
    • Interfacing with embedded microcontroller peripherals (including communications)
    • Real-time task management, including interrupt service routines
  • Knowledge of software development methodologies and best practices, including version control, code reviews, and testing frameworks
  • Proficiency in using debugging tools, oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, and other hardware/software debugging techniques to identify and resolve issues in embedded systems
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills to troubleshoot complex issues and propose effective solutions in a time-sensitive environment
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills to effectively convey technical concepts and collaborate with team members, stakeholders, and customers

Ideal Qualifications:

  • Experience in numerous embedded controls (e.g., PID control loops, motor control, digital filters, state machines, etc.)
  • Experience with desktop operating systems (Windows, Linux)
  • Experience with embedded operating systems (Linux, FreeRTOS)
  • Experience with wireless systems (e.g., WiFi and Bluetooth)
  • Experience with communications systems (e.g., EIA-422/485, ModBus, and Ethernet)
  • Knowledge of electronic circuits, schematics, and board-level design
  • Familiarity with continuous integration (e.g., Azure DevOps)
  • Familiarity with Agile or Scrum software development process in a team environment

ITW is an equal opportunity employer. We value our colleagues’ unique perspectives, experiences and ideas and create workplaces where everyone can develop their careers and perform to their full potential. 


As an equal employment opportunity employer, ITW is committed to equal employment opportunity and fair treatment for employees, beginning with the hiring process and continuing through all aspects of the employment relationship. 


All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, age, disability, protected Veteran status or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws.