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Cobol Programmer Jobs in Mobile, AL (NOW HIRING)

Xante corp

Software Engineer

Mobile, AL · On-site

Software Engineer Qualified Candidates should be proficient in C++, C. Individual should be comfortable using Microsoft Visual Studios with experience in Object Oriented Development. Multiple ...

All JobsCobol Programmer JobsCobol Programmer Jobs in Mobile, AL

Cobol Programmer information

See Mobile, AL salary details

$34

$49

$81

How much do cobol programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for cobol programmer in Mobile, AL is $49.64, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $36.88 and $57.55 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.

More about Cobol Programmer jobs
What job categories do people searching Cobol Programmer jobs in Mobile, AL look for? The top searched job categories for Cobol Programmer jobs in Mobile, AL are:
What cities near Mobile, AL are hiring for Cobol Programmer jobs? Cities near Mobile, AL with the most Cobol Programmer job openings:
Cobol Programmer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cobol Programmer job openings in Mobile, AL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 8% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 90% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $100,506 per year, or $48.3 per hour.

164250: Natural/Adabas Mainframe developer

Key Business Solutions, Inc.

Moss Point, MS • On-site

$40.75 - $52.50/hr

Other

Posted 3 days ago

New

Job description

164250: Natural/Adabas Mainframe developer

Jackson, MS(Onsite)

36 Months

Position Description and Job Skill Set

Description of the job functions the contractor will be expected to perform:.

MDHS is currently seeking an experienced application developer with a minimum of 10+ years’ experience with complex multi-tier systems using Natural/Adabas and some experience with SQL to join our team. The successful candidate should have at least 7+ years’ experience with State Department of Human Services Systems. In this

position the developer will develop and maintain applications and databases by evaluating clients'' needs and designing and implementing solutions. The developer will be expected to be in the on-call rotation schedule. He/She must be strong in problem solving with the skill sets necessary to analyze customer/clients’ requirements and design service solutions to meet the agency objectives. The developer must demonstrate experience applying concepts of Software Development Life Cycle including System Design, Analysis, Coding, QA Testing, Implementation and Maintenance. Familiarity with a Lean Agile methodology such as Kanban is recommended but not a requirement

Required Skills:

10+ years Natural/Adabas and SQL Development .

SCL in Linux experience

Advanced experience in working with stakeholders to design, implement, and enhance large applications using Natural.

Proficiency in writing SQL

Experience working with customers to build and formulate business requirements. Ability to define and implement new

technical direction and identify and participate in issue resolution and process refinement

Experience using the SDLC

7+ years of practical experience in State Department of Human Services Systems

Preferred Skills:

 

Linux

SCL

Experience with Microsoft SQL server

Agile Experience

Regards, 
Satya
Technical Recruiter

Key Business Solutions, Inc

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