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Cobol Programmer Jobs in Columbia, SC (NOW HIRING)

Cobol Programmer - Consultant Blythewood SC 29016 - ONSITE 12 Months Daily duties / responsibilities * Analyze the Phoenix core business system and assigned tickets for development and/or system ...

Senior Cobol Programmer / Developer Location: Columbia, South Carolina | Fully Onsite Duration: 12 months + potential ext Overview: We are seeking an experienced Senior Programmer / Team Lead to ...

COBOL Developer - Onsite

Blythewood, SC · On-site

$40 - $54.25/hr

The client is looking for a Programmer - Consultant - Senior COBOL Developer Scope of the project: This assignment is for maintenance, support, and development of the core client business systems ...

COBOL Developer

Blythewood, SC · On-site

$40 - $54.25/hr

COBOL Developer Duration: 12 months Location: Blythewood, SC (Onsite from day 1) Client: State of South Carolina Agency: OIT Job ID: 13251 Interview Process:2 Rounds of Virtual Interviews Possibility ...

Cobol developer with Visual COBOL V9

Columbia, SC · On-site

$41 - $55.50/hr

Cobol developer Location: Columbia SC - Onsite Duration: Long term Job Type : Contract (We can consider - W2) Required Skills: * 10+ Years of Experience with Visual COBOL V9 and higher architecture ...

Senior COBOL Developer Location: Blythewood, SC (Onsite) Duration: Long term Interview Webcam Only local candidates please JD: Required Skills * 10+ Years of Experience with Visual COBOL V9 and ...

COBOL Developer

Blythewood, SC · On-site

$40 - $54.25/hr

The client is looking for a Programmer - Consultant - Senior COBOL Developer Scope of the project : This assignment is for maintenance, support, and development of the core client business systems ...

COBOL Developer

Blythewood, SC · On-site

$40 - $54.25/hr

The position is withing the COBOL development team as the Senior Programmer / Team Lead. This position reports to the SCDMV COBOL development manager and will directly support the SCDMV core business ...

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Cobol Programmer information

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$37

$53

$88

How much do cobol programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for cobol programmer in Columbia, SC is $53.89, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40.05 and $62.50 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 Columbia, SC?

The most popular types of Cobol Programmer jobs in Columbia, SC are:

What are popular job titles related to Cobol Programmer jobs in Columbia, SC?

For Cobol Programmer jobs in Columbia, SC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Cobol Programmer jobs in Columbia, SC look for?

The top searched job categories for Cobol Programmer jobs in Columbia, SC are:

What cities near Columbia, SC are hiring for Cobol Programmer jobs?

Cities near Columbia, SC with the most Cobol Programmer job openings:

Infographic showing various Cobol Programmer job openings in Columbia, SC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Contract. Highlights an 89% In-person, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $112,090 per year, or $53.9 per hour.

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Posted 9 days ago


Job description

Senior COBOL Programmer
Blythewood, SC 29016 | Fully Onsite
12 Months | Extension Possible
Location Requirement:
Must be a current SC, NC, or GA resident.

Role: Include COBOL development, system analysis, technical leadership, production support, and working directly with business teams.

Must Have:

  • 10+ years Visual COBOL V9+
  • 10+ years COBOL development in Oracle SQL / Windows Client-Server environments
  • 10+ years system analysis, design, coding, testing, debugging, and implementation
  • 10+ years technical team leadership
  • 10+ years L3 production support
  • Strong business/technical specification experience
  • Excellent communication and ability to work independently

Preferred: Oracle 19+ SQL, .NET/C#, government experience, Visual COBOL certification, mentoring experience.

Education: Bachelor’s in Computer Science or related field preferred.


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About Indotronix

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In 1986, Indotronix established itself in the staffing space. 22 years later, Avani entered the scene, offering consulting and technology development. Finally, in 2016, the two joined forces to begin delivering talent across all areas, from Staffing to Consulting to unique platform development.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Rochester, NY, US