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Cobol Programmer Jobs in Springfield, IL (NOW HIRING)

Infojini Inc

Cobol Developer

Springfield, IL · On-site

$49.75 - $67.50/hr

An experienced developer with mainframe/COBOL experience to work in business application development. Environment and tools are IBM Mainframe platform, z/OS operating system, TSO/ISPF and DB2.

Infojini Inc

Cobol Developer

Springfield, IL

$49.75 - $67.50/hr

An experienced developer with mainframe/COBOL experience to work in business application development. Environment and tools are IBM Mainframe platform, z/OS operating system, TSO/ISPF and DB2.

Barrow Wise Consulting

Mainframe Developer

Springfield, IL · On-site

$80K - $140K/yr

Minimum five (5) years of experience with COBOL programming language * Minimum five (5) years of experience with TSO (Time Sharing Option) utility * Minimum five (5) years of experience with PANVALET ...

Barrow Wise Consulting

Mainframe Developer

Springfield, IL · On-site

$48.50 - $62.50/hr

Minimum five (5) years of experience with COBOL programming language * Minimum five (5) years of experience with TSO (Time Sharing Option) utility * Minimum five (5) years of experience with PANVALET ...

VIVA USA INC

Mainframe Integration Engineer

Springfield, IL · On-site

$103K - $138K/yr

Integration Engineering Skills: Skills in system integration and testing, ensuring seamless ... COBOL, EasyTrieve, CICS, CISC Map, DB2, JCL, CA Scheduler, MS, Rocket Software Mobius, CA-TELON ...

VIVA USA INC

Mainframe Security Specialist

Springfield, IL · On-site

$48.50 - $62.50/hr

... g., Assembler, COBOL, EasyTrieve, CICS, CISC Map, DB2, JCL, CA Scheduler, IMS, Rocket Software Mobius, CA-TELON, among others described throughout the RFP) for payroll system development and ...

All JobsCobol Programmer JobsCobol Programmer Jobs in Springfield, IL

Cobol Programmer information

See Springfield, IL salary details

$40

$57

$94

How much do cobol programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for cobol programmer in Springfield, IL is $57.73, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42.88 and $66.92 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.

More about Cobol Programmer jobs
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Cobol Programmer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cobol Programmer job openings in Springfield, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 12% Contract, and 5% Nights. Highlights an 78% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 19% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $120,083 per year, or $57.7 per hour.

Senior COBOL Programmer - 2 Openings

DivIHN

Springfield, IL • On-site

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

For further inquiries regarding the following opportunity, please contact our Talent Specialist, Abdul at (224) 507-1295 or Saravanakumar at (224) 507-1183
Title: Senior COBOL Programmer - 2 Openings
Location: Onsite in Springfield, IL
Duration: 6 Months with the possiblility of conversion to Full-Time
Schedule - Monday - Friday: 8 AM - 4:30 PM
Working Hours: 37.5 hours per week, with 7.5 hours per day.
Only W2 candidates are eligible for this position. Third-party or C2C candidates will not be considered.
Job Description
Background and Purpose
The organization requires a highly experienced Senior COBOL Programmer to provide development, maintenance, and production support for mainframe-based applications that are critical to business operations.
Scope of Work
The Senior COBOL Programmer will be responsible for the following activities:
• Analyze, design, develop, test, implement, and maintain COBOL-based applications running on IBM z/OS or equivalent mainframe environments.
• Work with JCL, VSAM, CICS, DB2, and other legacy technologies as required.
• Perform system analysis, code reviews, and troubleshoot production issues in real time.
• Develop and maintain technical documentation, including design specs, program logic, and operational procedures.
• Collaborate with technical teams, business analysts, and stakeholders to ensure accurate requirement translation and timely delivery.
• Ensure compliance with security, audit, and quality standards.
Technical Qualifications
The Senior COBOL Programmer must meet the following minimum qualifications:
• 10+ years of experience programming in COBOL on IBM mainframe systems.
• Extensive experience with JCL, VSAM, CICS, DB2, and mainframe debugging tools.
• Familiarity with batch processing environments.
• Experience supporting production systems.
• Excellent communication and problem solving skills.
Performance Standards
• Code quality meets organization standards with minimal defects.
• Resolution of production issues within defined SLAs.
• Deliverables completed on schedule.
• Documentation maintained in accordance with department requirements.
• Effective collaboration with team members and stakeholders.
Confidentiality & Compliance
The contractor must adhere to all organizational policies, data governance, confidentiality requirements, and regulatory standards.

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