1

Lead Cobol Developer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Cobol Developer

Huntington Beach, CA · On-site

$53 - $71.75/hr

Works on one or more projects as a team member or occasionally as a project lead. May coach more ... Qualifications COBOL, Customer Service, Data Architecture, DB2, Developer, Development, IMS ...

Mainframe Developer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$100K - $110K/yr

Write and optimize COBOL, JCL, and other mainframe-based code * Perform system analysis ... Lead by experts in the IT industry with a proven record of delivering software solutions ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Lead Cobol Developer information

Is there a demand for Lead Cobol developers?

Lead Cobol developers are still in demand due to the continued reliance on legacy mainframe systems in industries like banking and finance. Organizations seek experienced developers with skills in COBOL, JCL, and mainframe environments to maintain and upgrade critical applications, though overall demand is gradually declining as newer technologies emerge.

What is a Lead COBOL developer?

Lead Cobol Developers are senior-level professionals responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining software applications using the COBOL programming language, primarily for legacy systems in industries like banking, insurance, and government. They oversee teams of COBOL developers, provide technical guidance, and ensure that projects meet business and technical requirements. In addition to strong programming skills, they often collaborate with stakeholders to plan system upgrades, migrations, or integrations, and play a key role in troubleshooting and optimizing mainframe applications.

What is the difference between Lead Cobol Developer vs Cobol Developer?

AspectLead Cobol DeveloperCobol Developer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in Computer Science or related field, experience in COBOL, often leadership skillsBachelor's degree in Computer Science or related field, proficiency in COBOL
Work EnvironmentLead roles in team settings, project management, client interactionIndividual contributor, coding, testing, and debugging
Employer & Industry UsageFinancial institutions, government agencies, large corporationsFinancial services, insurance, government, and enterprise sectors

The main difference between a Lead Cobol Developer and a Cobol Developer lies in leadership responsibilities, project oversight, and team coordination. Lead Cobol Developers typically manage projects and mentor junior staff, while Cobol Developers focus on coding and technical tasks. Both roles require strong COBOL skills and industry experience, but the Lead position involves additional managerial duties.

What are the primary responsibilities of a Lead COBOL developer?

As a Lead COBOL Developer, you will typically oversee the design, development, and maintenance of critical legacy systems, often within large financial, insurance, or government organizations. Your role involves not only hands-on coding but also mentoring junior developers, conducting code reviews, and collaborating with business analysts to translate requirements into effective solutions. You may also be responsible for planning modernization initiatives, integrating COBOL applications with newer technologies, and ensuring system reliability and compliance. Strong communication and leadership skills are essential, as you will frequently coordinate with cross-functional teams to deliver complex projects on time.

How much do Lead Cobol Developers get paid?

Lead Cobol Developers typically earn between $80,000 and $130,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Senior roles often include responsibilities such as system maintenance, code optimization, and team leadership, with certifications like IBM Certified Application Developer enhancing earning potential.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Lead COBOL developer?

To thrive as a Lead COBOL Developer, you need deep expertise in COBOL programming, mainframe systems, and experience with software development life cycles, typically backed by a degree in computer science or related field. Familiarity with tools like IBM z/OS, JCL, DB2, and version control systems, as well as certifications in mainframe technologies, are commonly required. Strong leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills help manage teams and coordinate with stakeholders effectively. These skills ensure successful project delivery, ongoing system maintenance, and efficient modernization of legacy applications.
What job categories do people searching Lead Cobol Developer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Lead Cobol Developer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Lead Cobol Developer jobs? Cities in California with the most Lead Cobol Developer job openings:
Infographic showing various Lead Cobol Developer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution.

Cobol Developer

Jobsbridge

Huntington Beach, CA • On-site

$53 - $71.75/hr

Contractor

Re-posted 19 days ago


Job description

Company Description

Intelliswift Software, Inc

Job Description

Software Skills BMC for DB2 No 2 - 4 Years 

Software Skills COBOL No 4 - 6 Years 

Software Skills JCL No 4 - 6 Years 

Technical Skills Information Management System (IMS) No 4 - 6 Years 

Intermediate professional role. 

Moderate skills with high level of proficiency. 

Develops and implements solutions that require analysis and research. 

Works on small to large, complex projects that require increased skill in multiple technical environments. 

Possesses knowledge in a specific business area. 

Works on one or more projects as a team member or occasionally as a project lead. 

May coach more junior technical staff. Works under general supervision with latitude for independent judgment. 

May consult with senior peers on certain projects. 

Typically requires four or more years of applications development experience. 

This is a contract to hire position created based on an upcoming increase of projects. 

The candidate must possess the ability to handle multiple projects and work without guidance. 

The hiring manager has requested 2 references for each candidate submitted. 

40 hour weeks with an 8-5 schedule. The candidate must be on site.

Qualifications

COBOL, Customer Service, Data Architecture, DB2, Developer, Development, IMS, Iterative, JCL

Additional Information

Multiple Openings 


Jobsbridge Institute logo

About Jobsbridge Institute

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Josbridge Institute is your one-stop destination for your Data, Cloud and Analytics learning needs, powered by Microsoft AI & Cloud platform. We offer a wide range of courses and programs, from foundational to advanced focusing on Data Analysis, Cloud Engg, AI-ML required for Microsoft certification. Our courses are designed to equip you with the practical skills and knowledge required for success in the field of cloud computing, AI and Data Analytics. With our experienced faculty, applied learning and comprehensive curriculum, we are committed to helping you achieve your career goals. Students seeking Internship (CPT & OPT) may apply.

Industry

Business schools and computer and management training

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

Campbell, CA, US

Year founded

2022