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Cobol Programmer Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Lancesoft

Mainframe Developer

Portland, OR · On-site

$50 - $55/hr

* Experienced Mainframe Professional with strong expertise in COBOL development, Mainframe ... Exposure to DevOps tools and practices in a mainframe environment. * Familiarity with API ...

Nike

Software Engineer II

Beaverton, OR · On-site

WHO WE ARE LOOKING FOR We're seeking multiple Software Engineer II candidates to help build scalable, cloud-native solutions in support of Nike's mission to deliver cutting-edge tools for our ...

Relativity

Software Engineer

Portland, OR · On-site

WHAT WE DO At Relativity, engineers don't just write code. They build the systems that power AI-driven workflows at massive scale, enabling customers to uncover insights and act on complex data with ...

Amazon

Software Development Engineer, Kiro

Portland, OR · On-site

We're looking for engineers who want to shape this transformation. You'll work alongside exceptional talent solving novel problems at the intersection of AI and software engineering. The challenges ...

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All JobsCobol Programmer JobsCobol Programmer Jobs in Portland, OR

Cobol Programmer information

See Portland, OR salary details

$42

$61

$101

How much do cobol programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for cobol programmer in Portland, OR is $61.77, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45.87 and $71.63 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 are the most commonly searched types of Cobol Programmer jobs in Portland, OR? The most popular types of Cobol Programmer jobs in Portland, OR are:
What are popular job titles related to Cobol Programmer jobs in Portland, OR? For Cobol Programmer jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Cobol Programmer jobs in Portland, OR look for? The top searched job categories for Cobol Programmer jobs in Portland, OR are:
What cities near Portland, OR are hiring for Cobol Programmer jobs? Cities near Portland, OR with the most Cobol Programmer job openings:
Cobol Programmer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cobol Programmer job openings in Portland, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 8% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $128,492 per year, or $61.8 per hour.

Mainframe Developer

Lancesoft

Portland, OR • On-site

$50 - $55/hr

Temporary

Posted 7 days ago

Job description


Job Description:
  • Experienced Mainframe Professional with strong expertise in COBOL development, Mainframe technologies, application maintenance, and modernization initiatives.
  • Responsible for designing, developing, testing, and supporting mission-critical mainframe applications while ensuring high performance, reliability, and operational stability
  • Experienced in leading legacy application modernization programs, transforming traditional mainframe systems into scalable, cloud-ready platforms.
  • Proficient in planning and executing secure data migration projects while maintaining data quality, integrity, and regulatory compliance.
  • Adept at analyzing and extracting business workflows to document, optimize, and automate operational processes for improved efficiency.
  • Skilled in analyzing business and technical requirements, performing impact assessments, troubleshooting issues, and implementing enhancements in alignment with SDLC and Agile methodologies.
  • Collaborates closely with business analysts, quality assurance teams, infrastructure teams, and stakeholders to deliver effective technology solutions and support business objectives.
  • Manages production support activities, batch job monitoring, and critical workflow processing to ensure seamless operations.
  • Additionally, leverages Artificial Intelligence and automation technologies to enhance decision-making, streamline business processes, and drive innovation, productivity, and digital transformation across the organization

Qualifications:
  • Experience in modernizing legacy applications or integrating mainframe systems with web services or middleware.
  • Exposure to DevOps tools and practices in a mainframe environment.
  • Familiarity with API integration and data transfer between mainframe and distributed systems.
  • Prior experience working with automotive or manufacturing clients is a plus.

Education:
  • Bachelor's degree in related field required.

EEO Employer
LanceSoft is a certified Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) and an equal opportunity employer. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, sex, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, or any other protected characteristic as outlined by federal, state, or local laws.
This policy applies to all employment practices within our organization, including hiring, recruiting, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, leave of absence, compensation, benefits, training, and apprenticeship. LanceSoft makes hiring decisions based solely on qualifications, merit, and business needs at the time.
Meet Your Recruiter
Makwana Snehit
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About LanceSoft

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Established in 2000, LanceSoft is a Certified MBE and Woman-Owned organization. Lancesoft Inc. is one of the highest rated companies in the industry. We have been recognized as one of the Largest Staffing firms and ranked in the top 50 fastest Growing Healthcare Staffing firms in 2022. Lancesoft offers short- and long-term contracts, permanent placements, and travel opportunities to credentialed and experienced professionals throughout the United States. We pride ourselves on having industry leading benefits. We understand the importance of partnering with an expert who values your needs, which is why we're 100% committed to finding you an assignment that best matches your career and lifestyle goals. Our team of experienced career specialists takes the time to understand your needs and match you with the right job Lancesoft has been chosen by Staffing Industry Analysts as one of the Best Staffing Firms to Work for.LanceSoft specializes in providing Registered Nurses, Nurse Practitioners, LPNs/LVNs, Social Workers, Medical Assistants, and Certified Nursing Assistants to work in Acute Care Centers, Skilled Nursing Facilities, Long-Term Care centers, Rehab Facilities, Behavioral Health Centers, Drug & Alcohol Facilities, Home Health & Community Health, Urgent Care Clinics, and many other provider-based facilities.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Herndon, VA, US

Year founded

2000

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