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Cobol Programmer Jobs in Spokane, WA (NOW HIRING)

Credential Network, Inc.

Software Engineer

Spokane, WA · On-site

$140 - $185/hr

We're hiring a Software Engineer to help us ship that platform. You'll work across the stack, Next.js + TypeScript on the front, Postgres‑backed services on the back, with AI tooling threaded ...

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Cobol Programmer information

See Spokane, WA salary details

$40

$58

$96

How much do cobol programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for cobol programmer in Spokane, WA is $58.90, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43.75 and $68.32 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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What cities near Spokane, WA are hiring for Cobol Programmer jobs?

Cities near Spokane, WA with the most Cobol Programmer job openings:

Cobol Programmer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cobol Programmer job openings in Spokane, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $122,508 per year, or $58.9 per hour.

Software Engineer (1-3 Years Experience)

Commerce Architects

Spokane, WA • On-site, Remote

$85K - $105K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 21 days ago

Job description

We’re looking for engineers with 1-3 years of experience who are ready to accelerate their growth through hands-on work with enterprise-level clients. At Commerce Architects, we’ve spent 16 years building complex solutions for industry-leading companies, and we’re looking for engineers who are ready to build on their foundation while developing expertise that sets them apart.
 
About the Role
As a Software Engineer I (SE1), you'll implement features and contribute to the design of cloud applications that serve millions of users. You'll work autonomously on complex features, ensuring quality through strong testing practices and clear documentation. You'll collaborate with your team to deliver high-quality solutions, adapting to different technology stacks and practices as project needs evolve. This is a full-time position requiring approximately 40 hours per week, with flexibility to accommodate occasional additional hours during busy periods.
 
Your Growth Path
Within 12-18 months, you’ll progress to:
• Specializing in specific technologies while learning new ones
• Leading component designs and contributing to architecture
• Actively participating in client processes and technical discussions
• Supporting and mentoring junior team members
• Managing complex features independently
• Contributing to process improvements
 
Most importantly, you'll develop the judgment to make sound technical decisions, the confidence to advocate for better solutions, and the skills to guide others in their technical growth.
 
What You'll Need
• 1-3 years of professional software development experience
• Strong foundation in object-oriented programming and testing practices
• Proficiency with SQL/NoSQL databases
• Experience with CI/CD pipelines and version control
• Ability to estimate and deliver complex features
• Strong problem-solving and troubleshooting skills
• Clear documentation and communication abilities
  • Must be legally authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis without requiring sponsorship now or in the future
 
A Typical Day
As a Software Engineer I at Commerce Architects, your day begins with a team sync, where you discuss project goals and upcoming milestones. You're currently focused on implementing a new feature for a client in the retail industry, using Java and React to enhance their platform. After joining the SmashBros tournament during lunch break, you dive into coding, using your knowledge of AWS and Terraform to configure the infrastructure needed for the application. Along the way, you troubleshoot a few integration issues and coordinate with your team to push updates through the CI/CD pipeline. Later, you review code submitted by a teammate, offering feedback to ensure the quality of the project. By the end of the day, you've pushed your changes and made meaningful progress, all while balancing learning new technologies and contributing to the project's success. You step out a bit early to pick up your car from the shop, easily making up the time later, thanks to the flexible work arrangements.
 
Why It's Different Here
While other companies might offer higher salaries or push for early specialization, here you'll get:
• Exposure to multiple technology stacks and platforms
• Experience across different technical domains
• Opportunities to work on various parts of the technology stack
• Real input into architecture and process improvements
• The chance to develop broad technical leadership skills
 
Recent SE1s have:
• Investigated new technologies and presented findings to the company during a Lunch & Learn
• Assisted their team in troubleshooting production issues
• Suggested a better approach to a problem during a team backlog grooming session
 
Benefits and Perks
• 100% health/dental/vision premium coverage (50% for dependents)
• Flexible work location and schedule
• Flexible Time Off
• Safe Harbor 401(k) Retirement Plan
• Profit Sharing Bonus
• Professional development support
• Disability and Life insurance
• Family Leave Benefits
• Regular team events
• Recognition program
• Fitness reimbursement
• In-office game room
 
Our Learning Environment
We believe in:
• Hands-on experience with enterprise-scale systems
• Regular opportunities to lead and mentor
• Building deep technical expertise
• Direct client interaction
• Work-life balance
• Recognition for good work
 
Work Location
We offer flexible options! This role is available as a hybrid position based in Spokane, Washington, or fully remote for candidates in select states where we're set up for employment operations. While we have team members across the country, our ability to hire in certain states is limited due to varying regulations and operational considerations. We evaluate each location on a case-by-case basis, so please note your state of residence when applying. We're happy to discuss specific location questions during our initial conversations.
Starting salaries for Software Engineer I positions typically align with the base of our posted range. While we value the 1-3 years of experience you bring and may consider modest adjustments for candidates with highly relevant skills, our primary focus is on your long-term growth trajectory with us. Rather than competing solely on initial compensation, we invest in providing diverse technical experiences across multiple enterprise stacks, opportunities to contribute to architecture, and the comprehensive benefits package outlined in our posting. We believe the accelerated technical leadership development you'll experience here creates more lasting value than marginally higher starting salaries elsewhere.
Want to learn more? Let's Chat!
At Commerce Architects, we align our hiring with incoming enterprise client projects. While this means our start dates are flexible, it allows us to match you with real client work as soon as possible - not just internal tools. We're actively building our Talent Community, where strong candidates are frequently placed into roles within a few months. If you're excited about diving into enterprise-level work and comfortable with a flexible start date, let's talk about how you can grow with us.
 
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Commerce Architects is an Equal Opportunity Employer and E-Verify participant. We value diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We encourage candidates of all backgrounds to apply.

We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.