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Cobol Programmer Jobs in Elgin, IL (NOW HIRING)

Halo Group

Lawson Consultant

Oak Brook, IL · On-site

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 ...

Deutsche Bank

Assistant Vice President

Cary, IL · On-site

$157K - $165K/yr

Requires a Bachelor's degree in Computer Engineering, Electronic Engineering, or a related field ... ESQL, 4GL, COBOL, Perl, React.js, Node.js, Python, Resource Manager, crontab, Tomcat, DB2 ...

Accenture

Enterprise Technology Architect

Chicago, IL · On-site

$87 - $230/hr

... Engineering, Agentic AI, DevSecOps, Cloud platforms, Integration platforms, enterprise applications such as Salesforce and SAP and, why not, even Cobol and mainframe. You are interested in solving ...

Accenture

Enterprise Technology Architect

Chicago, IL · On-site

$94K - $266K/yr

... Engineering, Agentic AI, DevSecOps, Cloud platforms, Integration platforms, enterprise applications such as Salesforce and SAP and, why not, even Cobol and mainframe. You are interested in solving ...

DSNSearch

CICS/MQ Systems Programmer

Chicago, IL · Remote

$56.75 - $72/hr

CICS /MQ MAINFRAME SYSTEMS PROGRAMMER CICS ~~ MQ ~~ Z/OS MAINFRAME SYSTEMS ~~ SMP/E ~~ JES 2 ~~ CICSPLEX ~~ INFRASTRUCTURE REMOTE !!~~ REMOTE!! ~~~~FULL TIME WITH BENEFITS/ANNUAL BONUS OPPORTUNITY~

Capgemini

Mainframe Developer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$90K - $96K/yr

Experience in working with COBOL, SAS, REXX, VSAM, other Mainframe technologies * Knowledge of ... engineering, all fueled by its market leading capabilities in AI, generative AI, cloud and data ...

United Airlines

Mainframe Developer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$90K - $96K/yr

Experience in working with COBOL, SAS, REXX, VSAM, other Mainframe technologies * Knowledge of ... engineering, all fueled by its market leading capabilities in AI, generative AI, cloud and data ...

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Cobol Programmer information

See Elgin, IL salary details

$39

$57

$94

How much do cobol programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for cobol programmer in Elgin, IL is $57.58, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42.79 and $66.78 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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The top searched job categories for Cobol Programmer jobs in Elgin, IL are:

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

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

Cobol Programmer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cobol Programmer job openings in Elgin, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, and 22% Contract. Highlights an 80% In-person, and 20% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $119,769 per year, or $57.6 per hour.

Senior z/OS Platform Engineer

McMaster-Carr

Chicago, IL • On-site

$235K - $310K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 17 hours ago

Key responsibilities

  • Support CICS and Db2 subsystems, perform system maintenance, and replace physical hardware on mainframe infrastructure.

  • Write code to improve the availability, resiliency, and efficiency of mainframe software and systems.

  • Leverage application, resource, and system data to optimize resource use and support company goals.

McMaster-Carr rating

9.2

Company rating: 9.2 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

19th of 429 rated retail wholesalers

Job description

Who We Are
McMaster-Carr is a leading e-commerce company that industrial customers have trusted for over 120 years. Our products help them get manufacturing lines back up quickly, keep operations running smoothly, and prototype the next generation of innovative solutions. We earn and keep that trust by offering the right products, making them easy to find, and delivering them fast, so our customers can solve problems with greater speed, precision, and ease.
Our industry-leading e-commerce experience, indispensable product selection, and world-class service bring hundreds of thousands of customers to our site each day. But we're never standing still. Our curious, exceptional people are at the heart of our evolution. They turn new challenges and disruptive technologies into opportunities to refine our operations, expand our offering, and deliver a better experience for every customer.
How You'll Make An Impact
Our technology team builds the software that powers our e-commerce experience and our world-class operations. From customer-facing web features to distribution center automation, we design and scale critical systems that enable McMaster-Carr to deliver same-day or next-day orders reliably and efficiently. As a Senior z/OS Platform Engineer, you'll work on projects like:
  • Re-imagining our COBOL development lifecycle, incorporating VSCode, Zowe, and CI/CD pipelines.
  • Designing and transitioning to a new data layout for critical subsystems to meet recovery time objectives.
  • Upgrading DB2 and other fundamental platform components with comprehensive assessment of dependencies and robust risk mitigation practices.
  • Detecting and analyzing trends in z operations to optimize resource use and development velocity.

What You'll Do
As a Senior z/OS Platform Engineer you will:
  • Perform a broad range of mainframe infrastructure tasks, including supporting CICS and Db2 subsystems, applying system maintenance, and replacing physical hardware.
  • Write code to enhance the availability, resiliency, and efficiency of mainframe software and systems that bring value to customers.
  • Leverage application, resource, and system data to drive down costs and support company goals and strategies.
  • Build technical knowledge through learning groups, book clubs, and one-on-one mentoring.

Who You Are
We're looking for curious, driven engineers who thrive in collaborative environments and love solving hard problems. Ideal candidates will have:
  • At least 3 years of experience with technologies such as z/OS, CICS, Db2, JCL, SMP/E, SMS/ACS, Networking, z/OSMF, and Zowe.
  • A thoughtful, analytical approach to problem-solving and technical design.
  • Clear, confident communication skills across technical and non-technical audiences.
  • Interest in mentoring, coaching, and growing as a leader.

Cash Compensation
  • Total cash compensation is generally around $235,000 to $310,000 and includes a profit sharing based on company profitability.
  • You will also receive a relocation stipend and signing bonus.

Benefits
Growth & Learning
  • 100% tuition reimbursement
  • Informal and formal mentorship
  • Employee resource groups

Health & Wellbeing
  • Medical, dental, pharmacy, and vision plans with no monthly premiums
  • Inclusive, all-gender benefits

Family & Future
  • Paid parental leave for all new parents
  • Adoption and surrogacy assistance
  • First-time home buyer assistance
  • Industry-leading company-funded retirement accounts

Time Off
  • Paid vacation and personal time

Equal Opportunity Employer
We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer and dedicated to providing employees a workplace with reasonable accommodations and free of discrimination, harassment, and retaliation. At McMaster-Carr, we do not make employment decisions based on age, ethnicity, citizenship status, military status, gender identity and expression, race, religion, disability status, marital status, sexual orientation, or any other legally protected group.
This position is not eligible for work authorization sponsorship by McMaster-Carr.
Data We Collect
We may collect professional, education and employment-related data, and any assessments made throughout the recruiting process, to evaluate candidacy for employment. To communicate with job applicants, we may collect applicant names, contact information, and other personal identifiers, including those outlined in the California customer records statute. Through voluntary disclosure, we may also collect protected classifications under federal or California law (e.g., race, gender, etc.). For additional details about the personal information we collect and its uses, please click here.

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