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Cobol Programmer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

... DevOps adoption Maintain architecture documentation deployment standards technical specifications and modernization roadmaps Required Skills Mainframe IBM z OS Unix System Services USS COBOL PL I JCL ...

Assembler developer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$16.50 - $20.25/hr

Good hands on knowledge of Assembler(4+years), JCL, VSAM, COBOL, DB2, some knowledge of DB2 Stored procs Nice to have: Custody services background, portfolio management and reporting, High networth ...

Resourcewill have a minimum of 10 years development experience as PeopleSoftSystems/Developer ... COBOL or SQR's Experience with PeopleSoft v9.2 Enterprise HCM Person Model and Non-Employees ...

Mainframe Specialist

Chicago, IL · On-site

$70K - $196K/yr

Partner with cross-functional teams-architects, developers, QA, and business analysts-to gather ... COBOL, JCL, VSAM, CICS, DB2, Assembler, REXX, SPUFI, TSO/ISPF, or RACF. * Minimum 3+ years leading ...

... more programming languages; knowing one or more development methodologies / delivery models ... Experience in traditional app languages ( COBOL / Perl / C). *Experience in scripting languages ...

Java, COBOL, ISPF, REXX, or JCL. * Experience with Blackduck, Coverity, zACS tools. * Experience ... Bachelors in Engineering and 12+ years of related experience; at this level postgraduate coursework ...

Strong Micro Focus Cobol with embedded SQL programming experience Develop and maintain Lawson web pages using process automation, html, java / java script, process flows, design studio forms, or ...

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Cobol Programmer information

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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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Cobol Programmer jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Cobol Programmer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What job categories do people searching Cobol Programmer jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Cobol Programmer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Cobol Programmer jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Cobol Programmer job openings:

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.

RPG Developer / AS/400 Developer with Synon

Career Guidant

Chicago, IL

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago


Job description

Company Description

Career Guidant, an internationally acclimed, trusted multi-faced orgiansation into Information Technology Custom Learning Services for Enterprises, Lateral Staffing Solutions, Information Technology Development & Consulting, Infrastructure & Facility Management Services and Technical Content development as core competencies. Our experienced professionals bring a wealth of industry knowledge to each client and operate in a manner that produces superior quality and outstanding results.

Career Guidant proven and tested methodologies ensures client satisfaction being the primary objective. Committed to our core values of Client Satisfaction, Professionalism, Teamwork, Respect, and Integrity.

Career Guidant with its large network of delivery centres,support offices and Partners across India, Asia Pacific, Middle East, Far East, Europe, USA has committed to render the best service to the client closely to ensure their operation continues to run smoothly. Our Mission

"To build Customer satisfaction, and strive to provide complete Information Technology solution you need to stay ahead of your competition" If you have any queries about our services.

Job Description

Looking for AS/400 Developer with 5 plus years of experience
Ability to perform Impact Analysis and prepare / understand Functional Specifications
Ability to Digest Tech Specs & quickly develop Good Quality AS400 modules in a multi-tech. team environment
Working on a Global Delivery Model and ability to communicate, track & work with offshore team
COBOL Synon RPG
Health Care background a plus
Experience with RxClaim Adjudication a big plus
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Role Sr. AS400 developer Mandatory Technical / Functional SkillsAS400, Synon experience, SQL and good Analytical skills, RxClaim Knowledge Roles and responsibility

Participate in all aspects of software development including definition, design, implementation, testing, delivery, etc.
Analysis, design and development of software modules for targeted application domains
Enhancement, modification and correction of existing software modules
Contribute to planning and estimation activities Desirable Technical / Functional Skills

1. Good Communication skills, interpersonal skills and analytical skills.

2. Ability to interact with Business and IT stakeholders

Qualifications

Bachelor's degree or foreign equivalent required from an accredited institution. Will also consider three years of progressive experience in the specialty in lieu of every year of education.

Additional Information

Note : NO OPT for this position

Client : CVS

Direct: 770-544-9771