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Remote Cobol Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Product Owner

Chicago, IL · Remote

$62/hr

Mainframe Systems Analyst Remote Contract What are must-have skills for this role? 1. Product Ownership 2. Mainframe 3. Cobol • Years of experience required for each skill? 5 years each • What ...

Mainframe Systems Analyst Remote Contract What are must-have skills for this role? 1. Product Ownership 2. Mainframe 3. Cobol • Years of experience required for each skill? 5 years each • What ...

CICS/MQ Systems Programmer

Chicago, IL · Remote

$56.75 - $72/hr

CICS /MQ MAINFRAME SYSTEMS PROGRAMMER CICS ~~ MQ ~~ Z/OS MAINFRAME SYSTEMS ~~ SMP/E ~~ JES 2 ~~ CICSPLEX ~~ INFRASTRUCTURE REMOTE !!~~ REMOTE!! ~~~~FULL TIME WITH BENEFITS/ANNUAL BONUS OPPORTUNITY~

Remote Cobol information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$11

$57

$75

How much do remote cobol jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for remote cobol in Chicago, IL is $57.19, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49.76 and $67.36 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are remote COBOL jobs?

Remote COBOL jobs focus on programming and application development. In this field, you may test and develop mainframe software, adjust COBOL programs to work on each system, or work from home to provide technical help and support. Like most programming jobs, remote COBOL positions rarely focus on a single programming language. Companies may also ask you to code in other common languages as needed. Many remote professionals that use COBOL research and integrate design strategies, debug new software products, resolve design interface problems, and provide on-call support to resolve technical issues. Companies may ask you to remain available during nights, weekends, or holidays for emergency help.

What are some common challenges faced when working remotely as a COBOL developer, and how can they be addressed?

Remote COBOL developers often face challenges such as limited access to legacy mainframe environments, coordinating with on-site teams, and adapting to asynchronous communication. Overcoming these hurdles involves using secure remote access tools, establishing clear communication protocols, and leveraging collaboration platforms to stay aligned with project goals. Building strong relationships with team members and participating in regular virtual meetings can also help bridge any gaps caused by working remotely.

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

To thrive as a Remote COBOL Developer, you need a solid understanding of COBOL programming, experience with mainframe systems, and often a degree in computer science or related field. Familiarity with IBM mainframe tools (like z/OS, JCL, CICS, and DB2), code repositories, and remote collaboration platforms is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are essential soft skills for success in a remote environment. These skills ensure reliable maintenance and modernization of legacy systems while enabling productive teamwork across distributed teams.

What is the difference between Remote Cobol vs Remote Mainframe Developer?

AspectRemote CobolRemote Mainframe Developer
Required CredentialsCOBOL certification, programming skillsMainframe certifications, COBOL knowledge
Work EnvironmentRemote, mainframe systemsRemote, mainframe systems
Industry UsageFinancial, insurance, governmentFinancial, insurance, government
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

Remote Cobol and Remote Mainframe Developer roles both involve working with mainframe systems and COBOL programming. While Remote Cobol focuses specifically on COBOL coding tasks, Remote Mainframe Developers may handle broader mainframe applications and system maintenance. Both roles are prevalent in finance, insurance, and government sectors, often requiring similar certifications and work environments. The key difference lies in scope: Remote Cobol is specialized in COBOL programming, whereas Remote Mainframe Developers may work on a wider range of mainframe-related tasks.

Are remote COBOL jobs still in demand?

Remote COBOL jobs remain in demand in industries such as banking, finance, and government, where legacy systems still rely on COBOL. Employers seek experienced programmers familiar with mainframe environments, often requiring knowledge of tools like JCL and DB2, and certifications can enhance job prospects.

What are the most commonly searched types of Cobol jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Cobol jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What job categories do people searching Remote Cobol jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Remote Cobol jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Remote Cobol jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Remote Cobol job openings:

Infographic showing various Remote Cobol job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $118,956 per year, or $57.2 per hour.

CIS Application Support Engineer (Customer/1 + COBOL)

Confidential

Chicago, IL • Remote

$90 - $110/hr

Contractor

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 20 days ago


Job description

We’re seeking an experienced CIS Application Support Engineer with deep, hands‐on expertise in Customer/1 (C/1) and COBOL. You’ll support, maintain, and enhance a legacy Customer Information System for a major US utility — focusing on stability, defect resolution, batch processing, and small enhancements that keep the CIS running smoothly.

If you’ve supported utility billing systems and still enjoy solving problems in COBOL, this is a long‐term, stable role where your experience truly matters.

Responsibilities

  • Support and maintain the Customer/1 (C/1) CIS application
  • Troubleshoot and resolve production issues across COBOL, batch jobs, and related components
  • Analyze workflows for billing, metering, payments, collections, and customer accounts
  • Implement small enhancements, logic updates, and defect fixes
  • Work directly with business users to understand issues and translate them into technical solutions
  • Ensure system stability, data integrity, and accurate billing operations
  • Participate in on‐call or after‐hours support rotations (as needed)

Required Experience

  • Hands‐on experience with Customer/1 (C/1)required
  • Strong COBOL programming and maintenance skills
  • Background supporting CIS systems in electric, gas, or water utilities
  • Understanding of billing cycles, meter reads, payments, adjustments, and customer account logic
  • Ability to troubleshoot complex legacy code and batch processes
  • Strong analytical skills and ability to work independently

Nice to Have

  • Experience with mainframe environments, JCL, DB2, or similar legacy technologies

Role Details

  • Remote (US‐based)
  • 12+ month contract with likely extensions
  • Part‐time option available

Company Description

Super, Team oriented environment with a customer-centric focus and a great reputation.