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Cobol Programmer Jobs in Elgin, IL (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

... 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 ...

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~

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 ...

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.

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

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:

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.

Java Engineer - REST APIs & Database Systems

Broadcom

Lisle, IL • On-site

$51 - $70/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 8 days ago


Broadcom rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 23 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

18th of 161 rated electronics manufacturers


Job description

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Job Description:Broadcom's Mainframe Software Division (MSD) is looking for a talented, motivated, and experienced Software Engineer with a passion for building high-quality applications using Agile practices to join our Mainframe CyberSecurity & Compliance team. In this role, you will be a key member of the development team and will focus on building, testing, and supporting leading edge Mainframe Cybersecurity and Compliance solutions used by many of the world's largest companies.

We are looking for an engineer who is highly motivated, team oriented, and has excellent organization and problem-solving skills. The individual and team goal will be to develop and maintain high-quality software aligned with user needs and business objectives.

Work location for this position is in our Lisle, IL office.

Responsibilities

  • Create and implement scalable and robust RESTful APIs for seamless integration of the frontend system with backend mainframe systems.

  • Write clean, efficient, and well-documented code, adhering to best practices and coding standards.

  • Participate in code reviews and contribute to continuous improvement of development processes.

  • Actively participate and contribute in all Agile activities: Iteration planning, refinement, and sprint reviews. Volunteer for and commit to delivering stories and tasks within the sprint.

  • Interact with customers for support issues, demonstrations, and feedback sessions.

Requirements

  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering or global equivalent in a software-related field.

  • 5+ years of professional experience in Java development with a strong emphasis on RESTful API design and development, Spring/Spring Boot, good understanding of SQL databases.

  • Attention to detail and a quality-first mindset following coding best practices and unit testing, with a focus on continuous improvement in code coverage quality.

  • Knowledge of API security best practices, including authentication and authorization mechanisms.

  • Knowledge with tools and frameworks for API testing and documentation (e.g. Bruno or Swagger).

  • Knowledge of frontend technologies (React, Angular, etc.) and how they interact with backend services.

  • Proficiency in CI/CD pipelines with building, testing, deploying, and automating using Jenkins or any other pipeline.

  • Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to tackle complex technical challenges.

  • Ability to work independently and in a team-oriented environment.

  • Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to articulate technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders.

Desired Mainframe Technical Skills & Experience

  • Solid knowledge of z/OS, Unix/USS, SMP/E, z/OSMF, Endevor, reading system dumps, TSO/ISPF.

  • Additional experience in one or more of the following languages: IBM Assembler, Metal C, COBOL, ISPF, REXX, and JCL.

  • Experience with Blackduck, Coverity, zACS tools.

  • Experience with cybersecurity and compliance-related topics.

Education and Experience:

Bachelors in Engineering and 8+ years of related experience; at this level postgraduate coursework may be desirable or Masters degree in Engineering and 6+ years of related experience or PhD and 3+ years of related experience


Compensation and Benefits


The annual base salary range for this position is To

As a valued member of our team, you'll be eligible for a discretionary annual bonus and the opportunity to receive not only a competitive new hire equity grant, but also annual equity awards, connecting your success directly to the company's growth. All subject to relevant plan documents and award agreements.


Broadcom offers a competitive and comprehensive benefits package: Medical, dental and vision plans, 401(K) participation including company matching, Employee Stock Purchase Program (ESPP), Employee Assistance Program (EAP), company paid holidays, paid sick leave and vacation time. The company follows all applicable laws for Paid Family Leave and other leaves of absence.


Broadcom is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We will consider qualified applicants without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, citizenship, disability status, medical condition, pregnancy, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law. We will also consider qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records consistent with local law.


If you are located outside USA, please be sure to fill out a home address as this will be used for future correspondence.


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