COBOL Consultant Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In today’s business landscape, the role of COBOL consultants is more critical than ever.

As technology evolves, so does the demand for skilled professionals who can navigate, enhance, and secure our COBOL systems, a foundational legacy language still vital in modern-day business processes.

But what does it really entail to be a COBOL consultant?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker looking to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
• A hiring manager aiming to outline the perfect candidate profile,
• Or simply curious about the complexities of COBOL consulting,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a flexible COBOL consultant job description template, structured for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s delve right into it.

COBOL Consultant Duties and Responsibilities

COBOL Consultants are experts in using the COBOL (Common Business-Oriented Language) programming language to develop and maintain business applications.

They use their specialized knowledge to help businesses operate efficiently and effectively.

The duties and responsibilities of a COBOL Consultant typically include:

• Analyze and understand the business requirements of the client
• Design, develop, test, and implement COBOL-based applications to meet business needs
• Review and debug existing COBOL code to identify and fix issues
• Optimize COBOL applications for maximum speed and scalability
• Recommend upgrades and improvements for existing COBOL applications
• Convert business requirements into detailed COBOL program specifications
• Perform data manipulation and file handling in COBOL
• Maintain documentation for code, procedural, and operational functions of COBOL applications
• Work closely with other members of the development team, including analysts and programmers
• Provide training and technical support for users of COBOL applications
• Ensure that all COBOL applications comply with security and data privacy standards

 

COBOL Consultant Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated COBOL Consultant to design, develop, and implement COBOL-based solutions for our clients.

COBOL Consultant responsibilities include understanding user requirements, defining system functionality and writing code in COBOL.

Our ideal candidate has a strong understanding of COBOL programming, along with a broad knowledge of software development life cycle (SDLC) from preliminary system analysis to tests and deployment.

Ultimately, the COBOL Consultant should be able to build high-quality, innovative and performance-oriented software in compliance with coding standards and technical design.

 

Responsibilities

• Execute full software development life cycle (SDLC)
• Develop flowcharts, layouts and documentation to identify requirements and solutions
• Write well-designed, efficient COBOL code
• Produce specifications and determine operational feasibility
• Integrate software components into a fully functional software system
• Develop software verification plans and quality assurance procedures
• Document and maintain software functionality
• Troubleshoot, debug and upgrade existing COBOL systems
• Deploy programs and evaluate user feedback
• Comply with project plans and industry standards
• Ensure software is updated with latest features

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a COBOL Consultant or COBOL developer
• Experience designing interactive applications
• Ability to develop software in COBOL
• Excellent knowledge of relational databases, SQL and ORM technologies
• Experience developing web applications using at least one popular web framework
• Experience with test-driven development
• Proficiency in software engineering tools
• Ability to document requirements and specifications
• BSc degree in Computer Science, Engineering or relevant field

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: COBOL Consultant
• Work Environment: Office setting with options for remote work. Some travel may be required for team meetings or client consultations.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the IT Manager or Software Development Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $80,000 minimum to $130,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a COBOL Consultant Do?

COBOL Consultants are specialized IT professionals who work with COBOL (Common Business-Oriented Language), an extensively used programming language in business and finance sectors.

They work with organizations that have legacy systems developed in COBOL.

Their primary job is to maintain, modify, and update these systems as per the organization’s changing needs.

COBOL Consultants are responsible for coding, testing, debugging, and deploying programs written in COBOL.

They work in close collaboration with other IT professionals, including system analysts, software engineers, and database administrators, to ensure the smooth operation of the systems.

They also play a crucial role in migrating legacy COBOL systems to modern technology platforms.

This can involve rewriting code, designing interfaces, or integrating old systems with new applications.

Moreover, COBOL Consultants may also provide training to the organization’s staff on how to use and manage COBOL-based systems effectively.

They are also responsible for troubleshooting any technical issues that arise with the COBOL-based applications.

In addition to the technical skills, COBOL Consultants need to understand the business processes and needs to align the functionality of the COBOL systems with the strategic goals of the organization.

 

COBOL Consultant Qualifications and Skills

A COBOL Consultant should be proficient in a variety of technical skills, soft skills, and industry knowledge to support legacy systems, including:

• Strong understanding of COBOL programming language to develop, maintain, and enhance legacy systems.
• Proficient in JCL, CICS and other mainframe technologies to ensure the smooth running of applications and programs.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills to identify and correct code errors, troubleshoot system issues, and improve system performance.
• Good communication skills to articulate complex technical issues to non-technical staff and to provide clear instructions to the development team.
• Experience in database systems like DB2 or IMS for managing data in COBOL applications.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team, demonstrating strong interpersonal skills.
• Knowledge of software development lifecycle (SDLC) processes to ensure timely and efficient project execution.
• Attention to detail to ensure accuracy and reliability in coding and testing procedures.

 

COBOL Consultant Experience Requirements

COBOL Consultants should ideally have a minimum of 1-2 years of hands-on experience in COBOL programming, often acquired through internships, academic projects, or entry-level roles in software development, particularly in mainframe environments.

Experience in developing, testing, debugging, and implementing COBOL programs is generally a prerequisite.

Those who have experience with database technologies such as DB2 or SQL and knowledge of mainframe tools like JCL, CICS or VSAM are typically preferred.

Candidates with 3 to 5 years of experience often have advanced understanding of COBOL and related technologies.

They might have undertaken major development projects, worked on performance tuning, or have been part of system upgrade processes.

Those with more than 5 years of COBOL experience might have managerial experience as well.

They are often adept at leading teams, managing client relations, and may have been involved in the planning and execution of large-scale projects.

Experience in specific industries like banking, insurance or logistics, where COBOL is widely used, can also be an added advantage for a COBOL Consultant.

 

COBOL Consultant Education and Training Requirements

COBOL Consultants typically have a bachelor’s degree in computer science, software engineering or a related field.

They need a strong background in COBOL programming language as well as familiarity with other languages such as Java, SQL, and Python.

A comprehensive understanding of mainframe systems and databases is also essential.

Some positions may require COBOL Consultants to have a master’s degree or post-graduate diploma in a specific IT or computer science discipline, particularly those roles that involve advanced system analysis or design.

COBOL Consultants may also choose to pursue specific certifications in COBOL or associated systems to enhance their skills and marketability.

In addition to formal education and technical qualifications, COBOL Consultants should possess good problem-solving skills, a strong attention to detail, and the ability to work effectively in teams.

Staying updated with the latest advancements in COBOL and other programming languages through continuous learning and professional development can also be beneficial for these professionals.

 

COBOL Consultant Salary Expectations

A COBOL Consultant earns an average salary of $82,589 (USD) per year.

However, the actual income may fluctuate depending on factors such as the level of experience, additional skills, the size of the employing organization, and the location of work.

 

COBOL Consultant Job Description FAQs

What skills does a COBOL Consultant need?

A COBOL Consultant should possess strong programming skills with a firm grasp on COBOL language.

They need to have good analytical and problem-solving abilities to understand and resolve software issues.

Sound knowledge of operating systems, databases and middleware is necessary.

Experience in system analysis, code modification, and testing is also important.

Strong communication skills to liaise with clients and a team are beneficial.

 

Do COBOL Consultants need a degree?

While a formal degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, or a related field is highly preferred, the key qualification for a COBOL Consultant is a proven track record in COBOL programming.

Some positions may accept significant work experience in place of a degree, but most will require at least a Bachelor’s in a relevant field.

 

What should you look for in a COBOL Consultant resume?

Firstly, look for demonstrable experience with COBOL programming.

Certifications and specific experience with COBOL-based systems used in your industry may be a plus.

Look for any details that indicate the candidate’s ability to analyze and solve complex software issues.

A strong COBOL Consultant resume should also highlight the candidate’s experience in working with cross-functional teams and clients.

 

What qualities make a good COBOL Consultant?

A good COBOL Consultant is analytical, detail-oriented, and has a deep understanding of COBOL language.

They should be adept at problem-solving and have the ability to translate client requirements into functional code.

Being a team player and having excellent communication skills to interact effectively with clients and team members are also essential qualities.

 

Is it challenging to hire a COBOL Consultant?

Finding a COBOL Consultant can be challenging due to the rarity of programmers specializing in this older language.

However, COBOL remains crucial in many industries, including finance and healthcare.

To attract qualified candidates, it may be beneficial to offer competitive compensation, opportunities for continuous learning, and a clear career growth path.

 

Conclusion

There you have it.

Today, we’ve uncovered the true essence of being a COBOL consultant.

Surprise, surprise!

It’s not just about programming in COBOL.

It’s about shaping the legacy systems and ensuring their smooth operation in the modern world, one COBOL program at a time.

With our reliable COBOL consultant job description template and real-world instances, you’re fully prepared to make strides.

But why limit yourself?

Explore further with our job description generator. It’s your stepping stone towards meticulously crafted job postings or refining your resume to excellence.

Remember:

Every COBOL program is a cog in the grand machinery.

Let’s sustain that legacy. Together.

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