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Cobol Programming Language Jobs (NOW HIRING)

campus4tech

COBOL Mainframe Programmer/Developer

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$47 - $60.50/hr

Atlanta, GA 30303 The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of the COBOL programming language, and JCL on IBM/DELL mainframe operating systems . This is a consulting position offering a ...

Select Minds LLC

COBOL Programmer

Dallas, TX · Remote

$55 - $60/hr

COBOL AS/400 Programmer Location: Remote (Must work PST hours) Travel: Up to 3 days per month ... Proficiency in DB2 for i, embedded SQL, and Control Language Programming (CLP). * Solid ...

Select Minds LLC

COBOL Programmer

Dallas, TX · On-site +1

$55 - $60/hr

COBOL AS/400 Programmer Location: Remote (Must work PST hours) Travel: Up to 3 days per month ... Proficiency in DB2 for i, embedded SQL, and Control Language Programming (CLP). * Solid ...

Infojini Inc

Cobol Developer

Clinton, OK · On-site

$43.75 - $59/hr

Cobol Developer Location: Clinton, OK Duration: 8+ months Client: Direct Client Required Skills ... Experience with COBOL and AS/400 Control Language (CL). * Experience with IBM DB2 for AS/400

GDIT

Software Developer Senior (COBOL)

Albany, NY · Hybrid

$97K - $120K/yr

The successful candidate will have excellent knowledge of the COBOL programming language, CICS, DB2 and mainframe technologies, open systems interfaces and technologies. The ideal candidate will also ...

GDIT

Test Engineer Senior (Manual)

Albany, NY · Hybrid

$85K - $115K/yr

Experience with a MMIS, mainframe technologies such as the COBOL programming language and CICS, testing web-based user interface applications, and APIs/Web services are highly desired. Our offices ...

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Cobol Programming Language information

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How much do cobol programming language jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for cobol programming language in the United States is $55.52, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48.32 and $65.38 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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.

Does anyone program in COBOL anymore?

COBOL programmers are still in demand for maintaining and updating legacy systems in industries like finance and government. Many organizations rely on COBOL for critical applications, and expertise in the language remains valuable for system modernization and integration projects.

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.

How much do COBOL programmers get paid?

COBOL programmers' salaries vary based on experience, location, and industry, but they typically earn between $70,000 and $120,000 annually. Senior or specialized programmers with certifications and extensive experience can earn higher salaries, especially in financial and government sectors where COBOL remains in use. Compensation may also include benefits such as bonuses and retirement plans.

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.

Are COBOL jobs still in demand?

COBOL programming jobs are still in demand in industries such as banking, finance, and government, where legacy systems rely on COBOL code. Many organizations seek experienced COBOL developers for maintenance, modernization, and integration projects, often requiring knowledge of mainframe environments and related tools.

Is COBOL still used in 2026?

COBOL remains in use in 2026, primarily in legacy systems within banking, government, and enterprise environments. Many organizations still require COBOL programmers to maintain and update these critical applications, making it a relevant skill for certain job roles.
More about Cobol Programming Language jobs
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Cobol Programming Language jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cobol Programming Language job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% Internship, 64% As Needed, 13% Full Time, 2% Contract, 14% Nights, and 2% Summer. Highlights an 77% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 18% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $115,475 per year, or $55.5 per hour.

Title: Cobol Developer ; Location: Atlanta, GA - Onsite role

Interon IT Solutions

Atlanta, GA • On-site

$48.25 - $65.50/hr

Contractor

Posted 26 days ago

Job description

Title: Cobol Developer

Location: Atlanta, GA

Job Description:

Client's is looking for a skilled and experienced COBOL Mainframe Programmer/Developer. This role involves translating business requirements into robust programming solutions, maintaining, and enhancing custom software, and providing production support. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of the COBOL programming language, and JCL on IBM/DELL mainframe operating systems. This is a consulting position offering a challenging opportunity to contribute to critical projects and enhance your technical skills in a dynamic environment.

Responsibilities:

  • Translate analysis and design documents, as well as specifications, into well-structured programs.
  • Maintain and enhance custom developed software by modifying and testing user data entry screens, batch processing, reports, queries, and menus.
  • Conduct thorough reviews of existing code, data, and business processes to support non-database functions.
  • Execute test program changes, update test files, run tests, review results, and ensure the correctness of program changes based on provided requirements.
  • Identify and correct data errors through application logic and develop data analysis/summary reports utilizing IBM and Microsoft tools.
  • Assist with the conversion from COBOL application to web-based application.
  • Prepare both program-level and user-level documentation to support the software development lifecycle.
  • Enhance software to reduce operating time or improve efficiency, following organization guidelines and procedures for code management and deployment.

Required Experience/Skills:

  • Minimum of 5 years' experience in COBOL development on Mainframe, JCL development, and maintenance
  • Proven experience with COBOL, DB2, JCL, Control-M
  • Solid understanding of the full software development life cycle, including design, development, integration testing, and deployment.
  • Ability to troubleshoot, test, and debug computer software to produce required outcomes.
  • Strong analytical skills to support non-database functions, correct data errors, and develop data analysis/summary reports.
  • Experience in preparing comprehensive documentation for both program-level and user-level.
  • Excellent communication skills to obtain user sign-off on all changes prior to moving to production.
  • Capability to follow organization guidelines and procedures for checking out source code, migrating changes, etc.
  • Commitment to enhancing software for improved efficiency and reduced operating time.

Required/Desired Skills

  • Hands on experience in Cobol, DB2, CICS and JCL
  • Excellent communication skills
  • Java and open system experience is good to have
  • Good debugging skills and should be ready to take up support activities
  • Java programing knowledge
  • AWS hands on experience
  • Postgres DB experience
  • Kofax