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Junior Cobol Programmer Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Mainframe Development Team Lead

Dearborn, MI · On-site

$45.25 - $58/hr

Conduct code reviews and provide mentorship to junior developers. Implement best practices for ... Proficient in COBOL and JCL programming languages. Experience with mainframe tools and utilities ...

Conduct code reviews and provide mentorship to junior developers. * Implement best practices for ... Proficient in COBOL and JCL programming languages. * Experience with mainframe tools and utilities ...

Junior Cobol Programmer information

See Michigan salary details

$6

$23

$41

How much do junior cobol programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for junior cobol programmer in Michigan is $23.49, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.23 and $28.89 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a junior Cobol programmer?

A Junior Cobol Programmer is an entry-level role focused on developing, maintaining, and troubleshooting COBOL-based applications. They work under senior developers to write and debug code, test applications, and ensure seamless integration with existing systems. This role is common in industries like banking, insurance, and government, where legacy COBOL systems are still in use. Strong analytical skills and attention to detail are essential for success in this position.

What typical responsibilities and challenges can a junior Cobol programmer expect in their daily work?

As a Junior Cobol Programmer, you can expect to spend much of your day developing, modifying, and testing code for mainframe-based business applications under the guidance of senior developers. You'll likely work closely with analysts and other programmers to troubleshoot issues, implement bug fixes, and assist with system upgrades or enhancements. A common challenge in this role is navigating large legacy codebases and understanding undocumented features, which requires patience and attention to detail. Working effectively within team structures and embracing feedback will help you build your skills and grow within the organization.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the junior Cobol programmer position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Junior Cobol Programmer, you need a solid understanding of COBOL programming fundamentals, basic database concepts, and attention to detail, usually supported by a relevant degree or coursework in computer science or information technology. Familiarity with mainframe environments, version control systems, and exposure to tools like IBM z/OS or JCL is valuable, and some employers may favor candidates with COBOL-related certifications. Strong problem-solving abilities, eagerness to learn, and clear communication skills help distinguish candidates in this role. These skills ensure you can effectively maintain legacy systems, contribute to team projects, and quickly adapt to evolving business requirements.

Are Junior Cobol programmers still in demand?

Junior COBOL programmers are still in demand in industries such as banking and finance that rely on legacy mainframe systems. These roles often require knowledge of COBOL, mainframe environments, and sometimes additional skills like JCL or DB2. While new opportunities are limited, maintenance and modernization projects sustain ongoing demand for entry-level COBOL programmers.

How much do Junior Cobol Programmers make?

Junior Cobol Programmers typically earn between $50,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on location, experience, and industry. Entry-level roles may start lower, but with skills in mainframe environments and familiarity with legacy systems, salaries can increase with experience.

What are the most commonly searched types of Cobol Programmer jobs in Michigan?

The most popular types of Cobol Programmer jobs in Michigan are:

What job categories do people searching Junior Cobol Programmer jobs in Michigan look for?

The top searched job categories for Junior Cobol Programmer jobs in Michigan are:

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Junior Cobol Programmer jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Junior Cobol Programmer job openings:

Infographic showing various Junior Cobol Programmer job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 8% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,869 per year, or $23.5 per hour.

Mainframe Development Team Lead

HR Pundits

Dearborn, MI • On-site

$45.25 - $58/hr

Other

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

Position: Mainframe Development Team Lead
Location: Dearborn, MI (Onsite)
Fulltime
Exp: 10+


Must have
COBOL,ims,DB2 Mainframe

Job Summary:
We need a strong Mainframe Engineer/ Team Lead with experience in DB2 Mainframe technologies. The ideal candidate will play a crucial role in the development and enhancement of our platform and product offerings, ensuring high performance and reliability. This position requires a deep understanding of mainframe systems and a passion for delivering innovative solutions.

Responsibilities:
Design, develop, and maintain applications on the DB2 Mainframe platform.
Collaborate with cross functional teams to gather requirements and translate them into technical specifications.
Optimize database performance and ensure data integrity and security.
Conduct code reviews and provide mentorship to junior developers.
Implement best practices for software development and database management.
Participate in troubleshooting and resolving production issues in a timely manner.
Stay updated with the latest industry trends and technologies related to mainframe development.

Mandatory Skills:
Strong expertise in DB2 Mainframe, including database design, SQL, and performance tuning.
Proficient in COBOL and JCL programming languages.
Experience with mainframe tools and utilities such as CICS, VSAM, and IMS.
Solid understanding of software development lifecycle (SDLC) methodologies.
Excellent problem solving skills and attention to detail.

Preferred Skills:
Familiarity with Agile development methodologies.
Experience with modern programming languages and frameworks.
Knowledge of cloud technologies and their integration with mainframe systems.
Strong communication and interpersonal skills.

Qualifications:
Bachelors degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field.
10-15 years of experience in mainframe development, with a focus on DB2.
Proven track record of successful project delivery in a fast paced environment.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team.