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Senior Cobol Developer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Mainframe Developer

Davenport, IA · Hybrid

$43.50 - $55.75/hr

Works with other Software Developers, Senior Software Developers and Leadership team to create ... IBM Mainframe experience in JCL, TSO, COBOL, PL/I, and Easytrieve * Systems analysis, design, and ...

Mainframe Specialist

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$70K - $196K/yr

Collaborate with senior leadership to secure executive sponsorship and organizational buy-in for ... COBOL, JCL, VSAM, CICS, DB2, Assembler, REXX, SPUFI, TSO/ISPF, or RACF. * Minimum 3+ years leading ...

Senior Cobol Developer information

See Iowa salary details

$39

$52

$69

How much do senior cobol developer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for senior cobol developer in Iowa is $52.14, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46.73 and $57.36 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Senior Cobol Developer, you need deep expertise in COBOL programming, legacy system integration, and experience with mainframe environments, typically supported by a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with IBM mainframe tools (such as z/OS, JCL, DB2), version control systems, and sometimes certifications like IBM Certified System Programmer are commonly required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are vital soft skills for managing complex codebases and collaborating with cross-functional teams. These skills ensure the ongoing stability, modernization, and efficient maintenance of critical enterprise systems.

What is a senior COBOL developer?

Senior COBOL Developers are experienced software engineers who specialize in developing, maintaining, and optimizing applications using the COBOL programming language. They typically work on legacy systems for industries such as banking, insurance, and government, where COBOL remains vital for large-scale transaction processing. In addition to coding, they are often responsible for system analysis, troubleshooting, mentoring junior developers, and ensuring the continued reliability and performance of mission-critical applications. Their expertise is essential for organizations seeking to modernize or integrate old COBOL systems with newer technologies.

What is the difference between Senior Cobol Developer vs Cobol Programmer?

AspectSenior Cobol DeveloperCobol Programmer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree, experience, possibly certificationsTypically entry-level or less experience, basic knowledge
Work EnvironmentTeam projects, design, and architecture involvementCode writing, debugging, maintenance
Employer & Industry UsageFinancial, government, large enterprisesSame industries, often entry-level roles
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding senior roles, responsibilities, salaryEntry-level position details, skills required

The main difference between a Senior Cobol Developer and a Cobol Programmer lies in experience, responsibilities, and scope. Senior Cobol Developers typically lead projects, design solutions, and mentor junior staff, while Cobol Programmers focus on coding and debugging tasks. Both roles are common in financial and government sectors, but the senior role requires more experience and a broader skill set.

How does a senior COBOL developer typically collaborate with cross-functional teams in a modern enterprise environment?

As a Senior Cobol Developer, you will often work closely with business analysts, quality assurance testers, and project managers to translate business requirements into robust mainframe solutions. Collaboration frequently involves participating in code reviews, coordinating integration with newer technologies, and providing technical guidance to junior developers. Effective communication is essential, as you'll need to explain legacy system constraints and propose modernization strategies that align with organizational goals. This cross-functional teamwork ensures that COBOL applications continue to meet evolving business needs while maintaining reliability.
What are the most commonly searched types of Cobol Developer jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Cobol Developer jobs in Iowa are:
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What cities in Iowa are hiring for Senior Cobol Developer jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Senior Cobol Developer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Senior Cobol Developer jobs in IA? For Senior Cobol Developer jobs in IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Senior Cobol Developer job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 14% Contract. Highlights an 79% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $108,444 per year, or $52.1 per hour.

Mainframe Developer

Bitco Corporation

Davenport, IA • Hybrid

$43.50 - $55.75/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 8 days ago


Job description

BITCO Corporation is currently seeking a Mainframe Developer to join our Home Office team in Davenport, IA. BITCO provides quality insurance services to special industries including construction, forest products, and oil & gas. This position is eligible for a hybrid work schedule.

Position Summary:

Working as part of the Applications Development team within our Information Technology department, this position is responsible for supporting mainframe technology including the coding, design, modification, and testing of computer programs. This position establishes skills and depth of knowledge across one to several of our supported technical disciplines and business solutions.

Primary Responsibilities:

  • Works with other Software Developers, Senior Software Developers and Leadership team to create specifications, design and develop solutions to meet the needs of our customers
  • Creates or enhances applications using a mainframe technology stack
  • Collaborates with other Software Developers and Senior Software Developers to enhance skillset
  • Consults with internal customers to define application requirements, specifications, and to design information processing procedures ensuring that delivered enhancements meet business needs
  • Ensures our applications stay up and performant, and troubleshoots issues when they surface by analyzing program logic to determine solutions
  • Writes, tests and debugs programs
  • Thoroughly tests changes to ensure they are error free before pushing changes to a higher environment
  • Troubleshoots production issues, and performs system repairs as needed to maintain a properly functioning mainframe
  • Prepares and reviews test data
  • Documents program information and procedures, as directed, or as needed
  • Other programming duties and projects as assigned

Qualifications:

  • Working knowledge and experience with the following:
    • IBM Mainframe experience in JCL, TSO, COBOL, PL/I, and Easytrieve
    • Systems analysis, design, and programming
    • Maintaining and writing code using current Microsoft products or languages specific to your discipline
    • SQL Databases including but not limited to writing queries and stored procedures
    • Requirements gathering, analyzing and determining feasibility, working with others to design and recommend solutions
  • Ability to identify issues and determine appropriate resolutions
  • Basic understanding of project management lifecycles
  • Ability to learn new skills languages as they are released
  • Proven ability to exercise independent judgement and decision making
  • Ability to communicate and work effectively with internal customers
  • Must be able to provide rotating on-call support of production systems
  • Candidates with a programming background who are eager and willing to learn mainframe technology may also be considered