1

Cobol Programmer Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

Senior COBOL Programmer Analyst (Virtual) Company: The Boeing Company The Boeing Company is seeking a Senior COBOL Programmer Analyst (Virtual) to join our Human Resources (HR) Systems Timekeeping ...

Senior COBOL Programmer Analyst (Virtual) Company: The Boeing Company The Boeing Company is seeking a Senior COBOL Programmer Analyst (Virtual) to join our Human Resources (HR) Systems Timekeeping ...

Senior COBOL Programmer Analyst (Virtual) Company: The Boeing Company The Boeing Company is seeking a Senior COBOL Programmer Analyst (Virtual) to join our Human Resources (HR) Systems Timekeeping ...

... COBOL familiarity a plus). * Cloud platforms: GCP, Azure (compute, storage, networking, security). * Middleware & UI: Java/Spring Boot, REST APIs, ReactJS. * Solid grasp of SDLC, DevOps, and Agile ...

Partner with cross-functional teams-architects, developers, QA, and business analysts-to gather ... COBOL, JCL, VSAM, CICS, DB2, Assembler, REXX, SPUFI, TSO/ISPF, or RACF. * Minimum 3+ years leading ...

Mainframe Specialist

Redmond, WA · On-site

$70K - $196K/yr

Partner with cross-functional teams-architects, developers, QA, and business analysts-to gather ... COBOL, JCL, VSAM, CICS, DB2, Assembler, REXX, SPUFI, TSO/ISPF, or RACF. * Minimum 3+ years leading ...

Partner with cross-functional teams-architects, developers, QA, and business analysts-to gather ... COBOL, JCL, VSAM, CICS, DB2, Assembler, REXX, SPUFI, TSO/ISPF, or RACF. * Minimum 3+ years leading ...

Distinguished Engineer - Marketplace, Category Strategic Initiatives (CSI) We are seeking a talented and passionate Distinguished Engineer to join our team. In this role, you will serve as a ...

As a Software Engineer at Starcloud, you will play a pivotal role in designing, developing, and deploying software systems that power our space-based data centers. You will own the complete software ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Cobol Programmer information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$45

$66

$108

How much do cobol programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for cobol programmer in Seattle, WA is $66.33, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49.28 and $76.92 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is there still a demand for COBOL programmers?

COBOL programmers are still in demand for maintaining and updating legacy systems in industries like banking, finance, and government. Many organizations require expertise in COBOL for critical mainframe applications, though new development opportunities are limited. Skills in mainframe environments and understanding of legacy code are valuable for these roles.

Is COBOL being phased out?

COBOL programmers are still in demand for maintaining legacy systems in banking, government, and insurance sectors. While new development in COBOL has decreased, many organizations rely on it, and expertise remains valuable for system updates and support. The language is not being rapidly phased out, but the job market is gradually shifting toward modernization skills alongside COBOL knowledge.

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 are COBOL Programmers?

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.

Do COBOL programmers work remotely?

Many COBOL programmers work remotely, especially as organizations adopt flexible work arrangements. Remote work for COBOL programmers often depends on the employer, project requirements, and the need for access to legacy systems, but it has become increasingly common in the industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Cobol Programmer, and why are they important?

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 typically earn between $60,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of projects. Senior or specialized programmers with certifications 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Cobol Programmer jobs in Seattle, WA? The most popular types of Cobol Programmer jobs in Seattle, WA are:
What are popular job titles related to Cobol Programmer jobs in Seattle, WA? For Cobol Programmer jobs in Seattle, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Cobol Programmer jobs in Seattle, WA look for? The top searched job categories for Cobol Programmer jobs in Seattle, WA are:
What cities near Seattle, WA are hiring for Cobol Programmer jobs? Cities near Seattle, WA with the most Cobol Programmer job openings:
Infographic showing various Cobol Programmer job openings in Seattle, WA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 13% Contract, and 5% Nights. Highlights an 81% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 16% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $137,962 per year, or $66.3 per hour.

Senior COBOL Programmer Analyst (Virtual)

Boeing

Renton, WA • On-site, Remote

$148K - $231K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement

Posted 9 days ago


Boeing rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 609 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

34th of 537 rated manufacturers


Job description

Senior COBOL Programmer Analyst (Virtual)

Company:

The Boeing Company

The Boeing Company is seeking a Senior COBOL Programmer Analyst (Virtual) to join our Human Resources (HR) Systems Timekeeping team.

As a developer within our team, you will provide production support to the web front end of the ETS application, Tier 2 batch support and 24x7 on call support.

In addition,this position will provide production support for shop floor interfaces for the ETS application.You will also be responsible for understanding overall system design and dependances as you will need to be able to develop solutions for new system requirements.Virtual or hybrid work options are available.

Position Responsibilities:

  • Translate requirements from the Business to requirements for Developers

  • Lead and perform the design, program, test, implementation and documentation of complex computing applications and software or computing architecture and computing application system designs

  • Lead analysis of end user processes to define application requirements

  • Write and compile complex code based on documented design or designs application architecture that integrates application software and delivery subsystems for specific applications

  • Modify or upgrade complex applications to maintain functionality and performance

  • Identify and recommend improvements

  • Identify and resolve complex programming or application architecture problems

BasicQualifications (Required Skills/Experience):

  • 5+ years of experience with software development, system analysis, design, documentation, quality assurance, and testing

  • 5+ years of experience with Common Business-Oriented Language (COBOL)

  • 5+ years of experience with IBM mainframe systems and Job Control Language (JCL)

  • 5+ years of experience with the Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC)

  • 5+ years of experience with object-oriented languages, web applications, and databases

  • 5+ years of experience with Relational Databases such as SQL-Server, Oracle, Teradata

  • 5+ years of experience with HTML, Java, XML, ASP.NET, and/or C#

  • 5+ years of experience with Operating Systems such as z/OS, Unix, and/or Windows 10

  • 5+ years of experience with Microsoft Applications such as Visual Studio, Team Foundation Server (TFS), Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, Visio, and/or Access

  • Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to translate complex technical concepts into clear and concise language for global audiences

Preferred Qualifications (Desired Skills/Experience):

  • 10+ years of related work experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience

  • 5+ years of experience building relationships and partnerships with all levels of employees, including executives

  • 5+ years of experience with Micro Focus Enterprise Server

  • 5+ years of experience with Software Express Deployment

  • 5+ years of experience utilizing SAFE (Agile) methodology

  • 5+ years of experience with PeopleSoft (Payroll and HR), Workday HCM, Timekeeping applications

  • 5+ years of experience with Windows Power Shell and batch scripting

  • Experience researching issues independently using various resources

Conflict of Interest:

Successful candidates for this job must satisfy the Company's Conflict of Interest (COI) assessment process.

Drug Free Workplace:

Boeing is a Drug Free Workplace where post offer applicants and employees are subject to testing for marijuana, cocaine, opioids, amphetamines, PCP, and alcohol when criteria is met as outlined in our policies.

Pay & Benefits:

At Boeing, we strive to deliver a Total Rewards package that will attract, engage and retain the top talent. Elements of the Total Rewards package include competitive base pay and variable compensation opportunities.

The Boeing Company also provides eligible employees with an opportunity to enroll in a variety of benefit programs, generally including health insurance, flexible spending accounts, health savings accounts, retirement savings plans, life and disability insurance programs, and a number of programs that provide for both paid and unpaid time away from work.

The specific programs and options available to any given employee may vary depending on eligibility factors such as geographic location, date of hire, and the applicability of collective bargaining agreements.

Pay is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.

Summary Pay Range (Level 4): $123,250 - $192,050

Summary Pay Range (Level 5): $148,750 - $231,150

Language Requirements:

Not Applicable

Education:

Not Applicable

Relocation:

Relocation assistance is not a negotiable benefit for this position.

Export Control Requirement:

This position must meet U.S. export control compliance requirements. To meet U.S. export control compliance requirements, a "U.S. Person" as defined by 22 C.F.R. 120.62 is required. "U.S. Person" includes U.S. Citizen, U.S. National, lawful permanent resident, refugee, or asylee.

Safety Sensitive:

This is not a Safety Sensitive Position.

Security Clearance:

This position does not require a Security Clearance.

Visa Sponsorship:

Employer will not sponsor applicants for employment visa status.

Contingent Upon Award Program

This position is not contingent upon program award

Shift:

Shift 1 (United States of America)

Stay safe from recruitment fraud! The only way to apply for a position at Boeing is via our Careers website. Learn how to protect yourself from recruitment fraud - Recruitment Fraud Warning

Boeing is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, physical or mental disability, genetic factors, military/veteran status or other characteristics protected by law.

EEO is the law

Boeing EEO Policy

Request an Accommodation

Applicant Privacy


Boeing Participates in E - Verify

  • E-Verify (English)
  • E-Verify (Spanish)

Right to Work Statement

  • Right to Work(English)
  • Right to Work(Spanish)

What Boeing employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom