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Cobol Programmer Jobs in Madison, WI (NOW HIRING)

HTC Global Services, Inc.

MF Cobol developer

Madison, WI · On-site

$90 - $130/hr

Strong COBOL programming experience, including development and maintenance of batch and online applications. * Proficiency with DB2 for database management and SQL queries. * Familiarity with TSO ...

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 ...

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 ...

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Cobol Programmer information

See Madison, WI salary details

$40

$58

$96

How much do cobol programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 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 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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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 78% Full Time, and 22% Contract. Highlights an 78% In-person, and 22% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $122,171 per year, or $58.7 per hour.

MF Cobol developer

Madison, WI • On-site

HTC Global Services, Inc.
IT Services • 10K+ employees
Learn more about HTC Global Services, Inc.external

$90 - $130/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Location: Boston (MA) | Employment Type: Full Time - 40 hours per week | Job Level: T3 | Work Preference: Onsite at work location address | Job Code: 243671

Job Description: a {text-decoration: none;color: #464feb;}tr th, tr td {border: 1px solid #e6e6e6;}tr th {background-color: #f5f5f5;}

Mainframe COBOL Developer

a {text-decoration: none;color: #464feb;}tr th, tr td {border: 1px solid #e6e6e6;}tr th {background-color: #f5f5f5;} Overview / Summary

We are seeking a highly skilled Mainframe COBOL Developer with 4+ years of experience in Mainframe development to join our team working onsite in Madison, Wi.The ideal candidate will have expertise in COBOL, JCL, DB2, CICS, and VSAM, with experience designing, developing, and maintaining Mainframe applications. This role involves collaborating with cross-functional teams, supporting production systems, and contributing to modernization initiatives.

Key Responsibilities
  • Design, develop, and maintain Mainframe applications using COBOL, JCL, DB2, CICS, and VSAM.
  • Work with business analysts to understand requirements, system specifications, and business needs, and translate them into technical solutions.
  • Write efficient, maintainable, and optimized code for batch jobs, online transaction processing (OLTP), and other system processes.
  • Perform unit testing, debugging, and performance optimization to ensure application effectiveness and efficiency.
  • Integrate Mainframe applications with other systems and platforms to support data flow and interoperability.
  • Provide production support by troubleshooting and resolving issues to minimize downtime.
  • Create and maintain technical documentation for code, processes, and system configurations.
  • Participate in code reviews and follow development best practices.
  • Collaborate with developers, testers, project managers, and other stakeholders to deliver quality solutions on time.
  • Contribute to Mainframe modernization initiatives, including integrating new tools or methodologies.
Required Qualifications
  • Minimum 4+ years of experience in Mainframe development.
  • Expertise in COBOL, JCL, DB2, CICS, and VSAM.
  • Strong COBOL programming experience, including development and maintenance of batch and online applications.
  • Proficiency with DB2 for database management and SQL queries.
  • Familiarity with TSO/ISPF, JCL, and debugging tools such as Abend-AID or other diagnostic tools.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to troubleshoot complex technical issues.
  • Experience using version control systems such as Endevor or Git.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to work effectively with technical and non-technical stakeholders in a team environment.
Preferred Skills
  • Experience with Mainframe modernization initiatives.
  • Experience transitioning Mainframe applications to cloud environments or integrating with newer technologies.
  • Experience working in an Agile development environment.
  • Experience with Mainframe performance tuning and optimization.
  • Familiarity with automated testing tools and continuous integration (CI) processes in Mainframe environments.
  • Knowledge of Mainframe security practices and secure coding principles.

What Makes HTC A Great Place To Build Your Future

HTC Global Services wants you to join our team. Come build new things with us and advance your career. At HTC Global, you’ll collaborate with experts, work alongside clients, and be part of high-performing teams driving success together. You’ll have long-term opportunities to grow your career and develop skills in the latest emerging technologies.

At HTC Global Services, our employees have access to a comprehensive benefits package. Benefits can include Group Health (Medical, Dental, and Vision), Paid Time Off, Paid Holidays, 401(k) matching, Group Life and Disability insurance, Professional Development opportunities, Wellness programs, and a variety of other perks.

Our success as a company is built on inclusion and diversity. HTC Global Services is committed to providing a workplace free from discrimination and harassment, where every employee is treated with dignity and respect. We celebrate differences and believe that diverse cultures, perspectives, and skills drive innovation and success. HTC is an Equal Opportunity Employer and a proud National Minority Supplier. We seek to empower each individual, fostering an environment where everyone feels valued, included, and respected.

At HTC Global Services, our culture is an embodiment of who we are – a value-led organizationcommitted to success of our people and customers.

  • Hybrid and Workplace flexibility
  • Work-Life-Balance
  • Well-defined career development plan
  • Rewards & Recognition program
  • L&D focuses on upskilling
  • Hands‑on experience on Emerging Technologies and Digital Transformation
  • Career Mobility programs
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