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Cobol Programmer Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Software Engineer

Wilsonville, OR · On-site

$88.80 - $124.88/hr

The Software Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining embedded software and firmware for electronic control modules used in automotive and power management applications.

Working for Micro Systems Engineering, Inc. (MSEI) means joining an elite team to work on some of the most exciting challenges in medical technology today. We are a pioneer in developing innovative ...

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 ...

Software Engineer 4

Tualatin, OR · On-site

$100 - $130/hr

The impact you'll make As a Software Engineer at Lam, you will be at the forefront of innovation by designing, developing, troubleshooting, and debugging software programs. Your role is pivotal in ...

Software Engineer

Portland, OR · On-site

$120 - $180/hr

The engineering team is scaling to meet demand that is outpacing our ability to ship. You'll build across our core platform products that homebuilders and developers use to find, analyze, and act on ...

The engineering team is scaling to meet demand that is outpacing our ability to ship. You\'ll build across our core platform products that homebuilders and developers use to find, analyze, and act on ...

WHO WE ARE LOOKING FOR As a Workday Senior Software Integration Engineer III, you will work with the team of engineers working on integrations across products. You will responsible to develop, test ...

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Cobol Programmer information

See Portland, OR salary details

$42

$61

$101

How much do cobol programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 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 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 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:

Infographic showing various Cobol Programmer job openings in Portland, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 8% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $128,492 per year, or $61.8 per hour.

Mainframe Modernization Developer

Computer Task Group, Inc

Beaverton, OR • On-site

$51 - $65.50/hr

Contractor

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

CTG is seeking to fill a Mainframe Modernization Developer opening for our client.

Location: Beaverton, OR

Duration: 4 months

An Application Developer with Mainframe Modernization expertise is well-versed in the fundamental concepts and technologies related to both mainframe systems and modernization. They possess the ability to develop codes for both in-place mainframe modernization and migration of mainframe applications to cloud platforms, including z-cloud. This skillset encompasses support for mainframe migration to other cloud environments. The developer is proficient in various technologies, such as COBOL systems, Java, JSON, API, Microservices, SaaS, Edge, Off-premises applications, network security, Kubernetes, DevOps, Db2, CICS, WebSphere, and MQ.

Required skills:

  • Batch Job & Scheduling Expertise – Troubleshooting abends, managing Stonebranch UAC scheduling, and coordinating SFTP file transfers to ensure smooth batch operations.
  • System Integration & Code Promotion – Strong hands-on experience with RACF, Unix/NAS connectivity, and RTC-based code promotion plus dataset manipulation to connect dev and infra workflows.
  • Legacy Technology Proficiency – Deep knowledge of COBOL, CICS, Assembler, SAS, and REXX to support, troubleshoot, and modernize business-critical mainframe applications.

 

Excellent verbal and written English communication skills and the ability to interact professionally with a diverse group are required.

CTG does not accept unsolicited resumes from headhunters, recruitment agencies, or fee based recruitment services for this role.

To Apply:

To be considered, please apply directly to this requisition using the link provided. Kindly forward this to any other interested parties. Thank you!


About CTG

CTG, a Cegeka company, delivers IT and business solutions that enhance clients’ digital agility, empowering them to seize new opportunities and overcome any challenge. Backed by more than 60 years’ experience and a commitment to being a reliable, results-driven partner, we work shoulder to shoulder with clients to shape digital together. Our vision is to be an indispensable partner to our clients and the preferred career destination for digital and technology experts. With more than 9,000 team members in over 15 countries, we combine global expertise with local insight to deliver innovative solutions. We operate across the Americas, Europe, and India, working with over 3,000 clients in many of today's highest-growth industries.

Together, we shape what’s next—working shoulder to shoulder to deliver impactful solutions for our clients and society. Our culture is built by the people who work at CTG, the values we hold, and the actions we take. It's a living, breathing thing that is renewed every day through the ways we engage with each other, our clients, and our communities. At CTG, you’ll find a workplace where you are encouraged to grow, supported in your ambitions, and empowered to shape your own career journey. For more information, visit www.ctg.com.

CTG will consider for employment all qualified applicants including those with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the requirements of all applicable local, state, and federal laws.

CTG is an Equal Opportunity Employer. CTG will assure equal opportunity and consideration to all applicants and employees in recruitment, selection, placement, training, benefits, compensation, promotion, transfer, and release of individuals without regard to race, creed, religion, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and gender expression, age, disability, marital or veteran status, citizenship status, or any other discriminatory factors as required by law. CTG is fully committed to promoting employment opportunities for members of protected classes.

Qualifications:UNAVAILABLEEducation:UNAVAILABLEEmployment Type: CONTRACTOR

Computer Task Group logo

About Computer Task Group

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

We know that achieving our mission begins and ends with our people—and by people we mean you. Regardless of individual roles or responsibilities, regardless of industry or subject matter expertise, our lives happen in relation to other people—our colleagues, clients, and partners. CTG cultivates a workplace that attracts and develops the best people. Being Great Place to Work-CertifiedTM not only supports our Vision but also validates the rewarding workplace culture that has made CTG a leading IT and digital solutions and services company for more than 55 years.

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Buffalo, NY, US

Year founded

1966

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