Software Engineer
Champaign, IL · On-site
Software Engineer Location : Champaign, IL or Midland, MI depending upon candidate preference Duration : Multi Year Project Interview Mode : Phone and Skype Visa : Green Card and US Citizens only.
Software Engineer
Champaign, IL · On-site
Software Engineer Location : Champaign, IL or Midland, MI depending upon candidate preference Duration : Multi Year Project Interview Mode : Phone and Skype Visa : Green Card and US Citizens only.
Cobol Programmer information
See Champaign, IL salary details
$44.05 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$40.44 - $45.46
35% of jobs
The median wage is $50.30 / hr.
$45.46 - $50.47
16% of jobs
$50.47 - $55.48
5% of jobs
$55.48 - $60.49
11% of jobs
$64.25 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$60.49 - $65.50
12% of jobs
$65.50 - $70.51
7% of jobs
$70.51 - $75.53
8% of jobs
$75.53 - $80.54
0% of jobs
$80.54 - $85.55
0% of jobs
$85.55 - $90.56
2% of jobs
$90.56 - $95.57
4% of jobs
$40
$58
$95
How much do cobol programmer jobs pay per hour?
As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for cobol programmer in Champaign, IL is $58.34, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43.32 and $67.64 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
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.
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 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.
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 is the difference between Cobol Programmer vs Mainframe Developer?
| Aspect | Cobol Programmer | Mainframe Developer |
|---|---|---|
| Required Credentials | Typically a degree in computer science or related field; familiarity with COBOL | Similar credentials; often requires knowledge of COBOL and mainframe systems |
| Work Environment | Primarily in legacy system maintenance, often in financial or government sectors | Works on mainframe systems, including hardware and software components |
| Employer & Industry Usage | Financial institutions, government agencies, insurance companies | Banking, insurance, government, and large enterprises using mainframe systems |
| Common Search & Comparison | Yes | Yes |
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.
How much do Cobol programmers make?
Cobol programmers' salaries vary based on experience, location, and industry, but typically range from $60,000 to $120,000 annually. Senior developers with specialized skills in legacy systems and mainframe environments tend to earn higher wages.
More about Cobol Programmer jobs
What cities near Champaign, IL are hiring for Cobol Programmer jobs?
Cities near Champaign, IL with the most Cobol Programmer job openings:
Software Engineer
Champaign, IL • On-site
Droisys •
Software Development • 201 - 500 employees201 - 500 employees
Contractor
Re-posted 13 hours ago
Job description
Job Description
Position : Software Engineer
Location : Champaign, IL or Midland, MI depending upon candidate preference
Duration : Multi Year Project
Interview Mode : Phone and Skype
Visa : Green Card and US Citizens only.
Key Skills/Technologies: Single Page Application Experience (Bootstrap, Knockout, Durandal, etc.), Javascript, Visual Studio
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Design and develop software solutions that will be used by HTRI[
High Throughput Research and Informatics] customers
Interact directly with customers to help understand and document their application requirements.
Troubleshoot hardware/software problems occurring in automated lab equipment systems and within the PC and server based infrastructure.
Develop, test and maintain VB.Net and C# applications for instrument control, data collection and analysis.
Train and assist end-users in the use of developed and purchased software tools
QUALIFICATIONS
5+ years of practical experience in software design and implementation using Microsoft Visual Studio, VB.Net, C# .Net, JavaScript, SQL, XML and hands on experience in Hot Towel SPA Frameworks (Single Page Application) Durandal, Knockout and Breeze
Experience developing Graphical User Interfaces on the Windows Platform
Experience in database development, design and data entity modeling
Ability to work in a dynamic environment where frequent change from customers is commonplace
Excellent written, verbal and interpersonal communication skills
Ability to work in a self-directed team environment
Experience in or the ability to learn concepts related to the area of laboratory information management, instrument control, numerical recipes and/or data analysis.
Experience in Scrum and other Agile Software Development methodologies is helpful
Knowledge of the C/C++ programming language is helpful but not required
Experience in data visualization or data analysis using Matlab, Miner3D, and Tableau, Excel or similar tools is also helpful
A background in the area of physical sciences or analytical sciences is helpful but not required
Bachelors or Master's Degree in Computer Science is required
Additional Information
All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.
About Droisys
Sourced by ZipRecruiter
Industry
Software development
Company size
201 - 500 Employees
Headquarters location
Santa Clara, CA, US
Year founded
2003