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Entry Level Cobol Programmer Jobs in Dallas, TX (NOW HIRING)

Entry Level Cobol Programmer information

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$39

$57

$94

How much do entry level cobol programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level cobol programmer in Dallas, TX is $57.62, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42.79 and $66.83 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level Cobol programmer?

An Entry Level COBOL Programmer is responsible for writing, testing, and maintaining COBOL code for business applications, often in legacy systems used by banks, insurance companies, and government agencies. They work under the guidance of senior developers to debug programs, analyze requirements, and update existing software. Strong problem-solving skills and knowledge of COBOL, JCL, and databases like DB2 are essential. This role is a great starting point for those interested in maintaining critical legacy systems while gaining experience in enterprise development.

What kinds of projects does an entry level Cobol programmer typically work on?

Entry Level Cobol Programmers often work on maintaining, updating, and testing legacy COBOL applications that are critical to sectors like finance, insurance, and government. You may help fix bugs, optimize existing code, or support migration projects as organizations modernize their IT infrastructure. Usually, you'll work closely with senior programmers and analysts, learning best practices and the business logic behind the systems. This hands-on exposure gives you valuable experience in large-scale, mission-critical environments and often opens pathways for advancement into more specialized programming or analysis roles.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level Cobol programmer?

To thrive as an Entry Level Cobol Programmer, you need a solid understanding of COBOL programming basics, database concepts, and often a relevant degree or coursework in computer science. Familiarity with mainframe environments such as IBM z/OS, version control tools, and potentially basic certifications in COBOL or mainframe technologies can be beneficial. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help in troubleshooting and collaborating with team members. These skills and qualities are vital for maintaining legacy systems, ensuring code quality, and supporting business-critical applications.

Are entry level Cobol programmers still in demand?

Entry level Cobol programmers are still in demand in industries such as banking, finance, and government that rely on legacy mainframe systems. These roles often require knowledge of mainframe environments, batch processing, and familiarity with tools like JCL and DB2, making basic programming skills valuable for maintaining existing applications.

How much do entry level Cobol programmers make?

Entry-level Cobol programmers typically earn between $50,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on location, industry, and experience. Starting salaries may be higher in regions with a strong demand for legacy system maintenance and in organizations requiring specific certifications or skills in mainframe environments.

What are the most commonly searched types of Cobol Programmer jobs in Dallas, TX?

The most popular types of Cobol Programmer jobs in Dallas, TX are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Cobol Programmer jobs in Dallas, TX look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Cobol Programmer jobs in Dallas, TX are:

What cities near Dallas, TX are hiring for Entry Level Cobol Programmer jobs?

Cities near Dallas, TX with the most Entry Level Cobol Programmer job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Cobol Programmer job openings in Dallas, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 7% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $119,856 per year, or $57.6 per hour.

Associate Mainframe Operating Systems Programmer

Fidelity Investments

Westlake, TX • On-site

$52.75 - $67.25/hr

Full-time

Posted yesterday

New


Fidelity Investments rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 273 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

16th of 154 rated financial services


Job description

Job Description:

Note: Fidelity will not provide immigration sponsorship for this position.

The Purpose of This Role: - We are seeking an enthusiastic and detail-oriented Entry-Level Mainframe Systems Programmer to join our infrastructure team. This role provides an excellent opportunity to learn and support enterprise mainframe environments that power mission-critical business applications. The candidate will work alongside experienced system programmers to assist with system maintenance, software installation, automation, performance monitoring, and operational support.


The Value You Deliver

  • Assist in the installation, configuration, and maintenance of IBM z/OS and related system software.
  • Monitor mainframe system health, performance, and availability.
  • Support system upgrades, patches, and maintenance activities.
  • Help troubleshoot operating system, storage, networking, and middleware issues.
  • Assist with automation and scheduling tools used in the mainframe environment.
  • Support disaster recovery and business continuity testing activities.
  • Create and maintain system documentation, procedures, and knowledge articles.
  • Collaborate with application, operations, and infrastructure teams to resolve incidents.
  • Participate in problem determination and root cause analysis under guidance from senior team members.
  • Ensure compliance with organizational security and operational standards.

The Skills that are Key to this role

Technical / Behavioral

  • Basic understanding of operating systems concepts.
  • Knowledge of JCL (Job Control Language) and mainframe fundamentals is a plus.
  • Familiarity with programming languages such as COBOL, REXX, Python, or Java is advantageous.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
  • Good communication and teamwork abilities.
  • Willingness to learn enterprise infrastructure technologies.

The Skills that are Good to Have for this role

  • Exposure to IBM z/OS environment through coursework, internships, or certifications.
  • Basic understanding of:
    • JES2
    • SDSF
    • TSO/ISPF
    • TSS/RACF
    • DFSMS
    • SMP/E
    • CICS, DB2, or MQ
  • Knowledge of scripting and automation concepts.
  • Understanding of ITIL processes and incident management.

How Your Work Impacts the Organization

Your work helps ensure the reliability, security, and availability of the organization's critical business systems. By supporting the mainframe platform, you enable billions of business transactions to run seamlessly every day, contributing directly to operational excellence and customer satisfaction.

The Expertise We're Looking For

  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Engineering, or a related field.

Location : Westlake

Shift timings: 7 AM - 4 PM CST

Fidelity's Onsite Working Model
Fidelity is transitioning to a full-time onsite working model through a phased rollout across regions and roles. Currently, some roles and locations require 100% onsite presence, while others require less. Onsite expectations are likely to evolve as the rollout continues. This transition does not apply to fully remote roles.

Certifications:Category:Information Technology

Please be advised that Fidelity's business is governed by the provisions of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, the Investment Company Act of 1940, ERISA, numerous state laws governing securities, investment and retirement-related financial activities and the rules and regulations of numerous self-regulatory organizations, including FINRA, among others. Those laws and regulations may restrict Fidelity from hiring and/or associating with individuals with certain Criminal Histories.


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