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Cobol Programmer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Noblesoft Technologies

Tandem Developer

Chicago, IL · On-site

Write, test, and debug code using Tandem-specific programming languages such as COBOL, TACL. Desired skills: * Develop and maintain Tandem-based batch and online transaction processing systems.

Kanak Elite Services Inc

Mainframe Developer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$50.50 - $65/hr

MAINFRAME DEVELOPER Location: Chicago, IL (Full Onsite, Open to Relocating Candidates) Visa: Any ... · COBOL, CICS, DB2, JCL, CA7 · Financial industry experience is a bonus Thanks & Regards ...

Amaze Systems Inc.

Senior Developer

Naperville, IL · On-site

$54.50 - $72/hr

Technical Skills (APPS)-Mainframe-Language-Mainframe - COBOL Job : Technical Lead Other Requirement ... Developer Mandatory Skills Mainframe Cobol (Primary) JCL CICS VSAM Unix Shell scripting is ...

Capgemini

z/OS Connect API Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$73K - $174K/yr

Expose existing CICS, COBOL, and DB2 transactions as modern API services. * Create and maintain API ... RACF Development & DevOps * GitHub * CI/CD Pipelines * Git-based Version Control * Gradle Build ...

Kanak Elite Services Inc

Mainframe Developer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$50.50 - $65/hr

Role: Mainframe Developer (12+ YEARS) Location: Chicago, IL * Required Years of Experience: At ... Strong background in COBOL, CICS, and Natural Adabas * Advanced experience in CA7 - someone who can ...

Noblesoft Technologies

zOS Technical Developer

Lisle, IL · On-site

$45 - $52/hr

Role - zOS Technical Developer Location -Lisle, Illinois (Onsite, no remote) JD: * 5-8+ years of ... Strong proficiency in COBOL, JCL, CICS, VSAM, DB2, IMS, REXX. * Analyze business and technical ...

SA Technologies Inc.

Oracle CC&B Consultant

Naperville, IL

$63.50 - $80/hr

We are looking for a CCB Developer for our direct client in Naperville, IL. The ideal candidate ... Java, COBOL and Configuration Tools. Qualifications The ideal candidate must have core, hands-on ...

Morgan Stanley

Mainframe CICS Systems Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$50.50 - $65/hr

The Mainframe CICS Systems Programmer/Engineer is responsible for all phases of CICS engineering ... Assembler, COBOL and REXX coding and knowledge of CICS Exits Web application support in a CICS TS ...

Noblesoft Technologies

Tandem Solution Architect

Rosemont, IL · Remote

$64.50 - $85/hr

Rosemont, IL Should have 15+ years of working experience in Tandem/HP Nonstop application programming (Hands On Role) Expertise in COBOL, SCOBOL, NSQL (SQL/MP, SQL/MX), Enscribe, Pathway, EINSPECT ...

3B Staffing LLC

Lead Reactjs/C# Developer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$60.75 - $79.50/hr

Lead Software Engineer You're a creative, a tech expert, and visionary. You think logically but ... Experience with COBOL development * Experience with one or more: Visual Studio, Git, IIS Web Server ...

3B Staffing LLC

Lead Reactjs/C# Developer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$60.75 - $79.50/hr

Lead Software Engineer You're a creative, a tech expert, and visionary. You think logically but ... Experience with COBOL development * Experience with one or more: Visual Studio, Git, IIS Web Server ...

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All JobsCobol Programmer JobsCobol Programmer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Cobol Programmer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

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How much do cobol programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for cobol programmer in Chicago, IL is $60.05, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44.62 and $69.62 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?

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.

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.
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Cobol Programmer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cobol Programmer job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 6% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $124,912 per year, or $60.1 per hour.

Tandem Developer

Noblesoft Technologies

Chicago, IL • On-site

Contractor

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Tandem Developer
Location: Chicago IL
 
Mandatory required skills: 
  • Development and Maintenance
  • Design, develop, and maintain applications on the Tandem (HP NonStop) platform.
  • Write, test, and debug code using Tandem-specific programming languages such as COBOL, TACL.
Desired skills:
  • Develop and maintain Tandem-based batch and online transaction processing systems.
  • Implement enhancements and fixes to existing Tandem applications.
  • Analysis and Design
  • Analyze business requirements and translate them into technical specifications.
  • Collaborate with business analysts, project managers, and stakeholders to understand project goals and deliverables
  • Design scalable and efficient solutions that align with business needs and IT standards.
  • Testing and Documentation
  • Develop and execute unit, integration, and system test plans.
  • Document technical designs, processes, and procedures.
  • Ensure compliance with company standards, policies, and regulatory requirements.
  • Collaboration and Support
  • Provide technical support and guidance to other team members and end-users.
  • Work closely with infrastructure teams to ensure seamless integration with other systems.
  • Participate in on-call rotations to support critical systems and resolve production issues.
Job Description:
Required Skills and Qualifications
Technical Skills
  • Strong experience with Tandem (HP NonStop) systems and tools.
  • Proficiency in Tandem programming languages such as COBOL, TACL.
  • Knowledge of Tandem database systems like Enscribe or SQL/MP.
  • Familiarity with Tandem utilities such as Pathway, TMF, and Guardian.
  • Experience with batch processing and online transaction processing (OLTP).
  • Understanding of system performance tuning and optimization techniques.
Soft Skills
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
  • Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality.
Education and Experience
  • Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field.
  • 5+ years of experience in Tandem development and analysis.
  • Experience in the insurance, claims handling, or related industries is a plus.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with modernizing legacy Tandem systems.
  • Knowledge of Agile or Scrum methodologies.
  • Familiarity with DevOps practices and tools.
  • Certifications in Tandem/HP NonStop technologies