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Cobol Programmer Jobs in Madison, WI (NOW HIRING)

MARS Solutions Group

PeopleSoft Programmer

Madison, WI · On-site

$104/hr

... using COBOL Nice to Have: * Previous experience with Campus Solutions: Student Financials ... UW is looking for a campus solutions developer with experience in Student Financials or Admissions ...

L.W. Allen & Altronex

Software Engineer

Madison, WI · On-site

The Software Engineer is an individual contributor within a team, responsible for analysis, design, programming, testing, documentation, and deployment of software for data and user interface ...

L.W. Allen & Altronex

Software Engineer

Madison, WI · On-site

The Software Engineer is an individual contributor within a team, responsible for analysis, design, programming, testing, documentation, and deployment of software for data and user interface ...

i3 Product Development

Software Engineer

Sun Prairie, WI · On-site +1

As a Software Engineer, you will join a multidisciplinary team of designers, engineers, and problem-solvers working together under one roof to turn ideas into real, functioning products. Our projects ...

i3 Product Development

Software Engineer

Sun Prairie, WI · On-site

$70K - $100K/yr

As a Software Engineer, you will join a multidisciplinary team of designers, engineers, and problem-solvers working together under one roof to turn ideas into real, functioning products. Our projects ...

ETC

Software Engineer

Middleton, WI · On-site

We are looking for Software Engineers to join our R&D team. If you have a Technical Bachelor's degree preferably in Computer Science or Computer Engineering, a passion for creativity, and to work on ...

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All JobsCobol Programmer JobsCobol Programmer Jobs in Madison, WI

Cobol Programmer information

See Madison, WI salary details

$40

$58

$96

How much do cobol programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for cobol programmer in Madison, WI is $58.74, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43.65 and $68.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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.

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 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.

How much do Cobol programmers make?

Cobol programmers' salaries vary based on experience, location, and industry, but they typically earn between $70,000 and $120,000 annually. Senior or specialized programmers with certifications and extensive experience can earn higher salaries, especially in industries like finance and government that rely heavily on legacy systems.

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.

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Cobol Programmer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cobol Programmer job openings in Madison, WI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 7% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $122,171 per year, or $58.7 per hour.

Mainframe Consultant with Broadcom/CA Top Secret

Pantar Solutions inc

Madison, WI • On-site

Contractor

Re-posted 21 days ago

Job description

We are an Information Technology and Business Consulting firm specializing in Project-based Solutions and Professional Staffing Services. Please have a look at below position which is with our Client and let me know your interest ASAP. I would really appreciate if you could send me your MOST RECENT UPDATED RESUME: 

Position: Mainframe with Broadcom CA Top Secret
Location : Madison (Wisconsin) / Remote may also work.
Duration: 6 Months
 

Need strong Mainframe with Broadcom CA Top Secret, Cobol,  ServiceNow Exp. || Plus if you have:  Software AG Natural experience

Consultant LinkedIn profile must have been created before 2018/2019

Need 8-10+yrs of IT Exp. Profiles 

Key Responsibilities:
- Administer and manage Broadcom CA Top Secret security software
- Knowledge of Mainframe and Cobol is expected
- Implement and enforce policies, procedures, and standards
- Manage user access and permissions, ensuring proper authorization and authentication
- Maintain documentation, policies, and procedures
- Stay updated with the latest security trends, threats, and technologies
 
Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in computer science, Information Technology or related field
- 3-5 years’ experience with Broadcom/CA top Secret
- Entry to mid-level Cobol developer experience at a minimum
- Software AG Natural experience is a plus, but training can be provided if necessary
- Excellent problem solving and analytical skills
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team
- Experience with ITSM tools such as ServiceNow

Thanks & Regards,
 
Babu
Pantar Solutions Inc
1908 Cox Rd, Weddington, NC  28104
Email: babu (dot) s (at) pantarsolutions (dot) com