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Cobol Programming Language Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

... and programming language (i.e. COBOL) Experience working with accountants to manage day today work Ability to learn "How to publish Accounting reports on Unix server". Understanding of Performance ...

Familiar with Unix environment and programming language (i.e. COBOL). * Experience working with accountants to manage day today work. * Ability to learn "How to publish Accounting reports on Unix ...

Cobol Programming Language information

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$10

$54

$72

How much do cobol programming language jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for cobol programming language in California is $54.79, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47.69 and $64.52 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is COBOL programming language?

COBOL (Common Business-Oriented Language) is a high-level programming language designed primarily for business, finance, and administrative systems. Developed in the late 1950s, COBOL is known for its readability and ability to handle large volumes of data processing. It is still widely used in legacy systems within sectors like banking, government, and insurance. COBOL code is designed to be self-documenting, making it easier to maintain and update. Despite its age, COBOL remains critical for many organizations' core systems.

What are some common challenges faced by COBOL programmers when working with legacy systems?

COBOL programmers often encounter challenges such as deciphering poorly documented or outdated code, integrating modern technologies with decades-old mainframe environments, and ensuring minimal disruption during system updates. Collaboration with business analysts and other IT specialists is essential to accurately interpret legacy logic and translate business requirements. Despite these hurdles, working with COBOL can provide valuable experience in mission-critical financial, government, and insurance systems, offering job security and the potential to mentor new talent as organizations seek to modernize their infrastructure.

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

To thrive as a COBOL Programmer, you need a strong grasp of COBOL syntax, legacy system concepts, and experience with mainframe environments, often supported by a degree in computer science or related field. Familiarity with technical tools such as IBM z/OS, JCL (Job Control Language), and version control systems like Git is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for maintaining and updating complex, business-critical codebases. These skills ensure legacy systems remain reliable, secure, and adaptable to evolving organizational needs.

What is the difference between Cobol Programming Language vs COBOL Developer?

AspectCobol Programming LanguageCOBOL Developer
Primary RoleDefines and implements programs using COBOL languageDesigns, develops, and maintains COBOL applications
Required SkillsKnowledge of COBOL syntax, coding, and debuggingProficiency in COBOL, understanding of legacy systems, and problem-solving
Work EnvironmentTypically in mainframe or legacy system settingsInvolves coding, testing, and maintaining COBOL applications in similar environments
Industry UsageUsed in banking, finance, and government sectorsEmployed to update, troubleshoot, and develop COBOL-based systems

In summary, Cobol Programming Language refers to the language itself, while a COBOL Developer is a professional who writes and maintains applications using COBOL. Both roles require similar skills and work in legacy system environments, but the language is a tool, and the developer is a practitioner of that tool.

Are Cobol programming language programmers still in demand?

Cobol programmers are still in demand in industries such as banking, finance, and government, where legacy systems rely on Cobol for critical operations. Many organizations seek experienced programmers to maintain, update, and modernize these systems, often requiring knowledge of mainframe environments and related tools.

What job categories do people searching Cobol Programming Language jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Cobol Programming Language jobs in California are:

Infographic showing various Cobol Programming Language job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $113,963 per year, or $54.8 per hour.

Programmer Analyst - HRIS

Comtech, LLC

Sunnyvale, CA

Contractor

Re-posted 22 days ago


Job description

Company Description

Comtech LLC is a woman-owned small business focused on delivering end-to-end solutions and products. Since 1998, we have successfully serviced enterprises across the public and private sectors, and the Department of Defense. Our services span all aspects of business, providing a holistic approach for managing an organization.

Job Description

Required Skills/Experience
Programmer Analyst/Support Analyst experience working with Highline Personality/ePersonality (eP)/NextGen HRIS & Payroll application both frontend and backend.
Experience working with HR analysts and technicians in defining/evaluating and establishing application configuration for eP
Experience working with payroll manager and payroll staff in defining/evaluating and establishing application configuration for eP
Experience defining/evaluating and establishing application configuration for eP's ESS
Experience managing, maintaining and debugging GL interface from eP payroll
Experience managing, maintaining and overseeing payroll calendars and other scheduled functions in eP
Experience in Crystal reports and Oracle BI discoverer.

Additional Skills/Experience
Programmer Analyst/Support Analyst experience working with Performance Series G/L accounting system
Familiar with Unix environment and programming language (i.e. COBOL)
Experience working with accountants to manage day today work
Ability to learn "How to publish Accounting reports on Unix server".
Understanding of Performance Series data table structure and ability to pull open documents (open requisitions, open orders and open invoices, etc.)
Programmer Analyst/Support Analyst experience working with Questica budgeting system
Experience working with Questica budgeting system - development environment.
Experience working on interface development between finance/HR system and Questica system
Experience working with finance department analysts in managing the daytoday support of
Questica system
Can learn and pick up new technology to support systems beside Payroll/HR and Performance
Series.
Experience with a public sector agency highly preferred


General Skills & Abilities
Communications skills to define and document requirements
Excellent documentation skills
Willingness to document processes and procedures, enabler of turnover to production

Qualifications

Bachelors degree in a related field.

Additional Information

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.