Cobol Developer Jobs in USA with Visa Sponsorship
COBOL developer roles attract H-1B visa and EB-3 visa sponsorship from banks, insurers, and federal contractors who can't find enough qualified candidates domestically. Mainframe experience is the differentiator, employers move fast when you have it. For detailed occupation requirements, see the O*NET profile.
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Note: This position will remain open until filled. It is at the hiring manager's discretion to make a hiring decision at any time and close the recruitment. It is in your best interest to apply as soon as possible. Applications will be reviewed daily. We anticipate interviews to begin the week of July 13, 2026.
Hybrid: Our physical office is in Olympia, WA. We offer flexible work schedules and locations. This is a hybrid position where most of the work allows teleworking. However, you must reside in the state of Washington and travel to in-person activities, meetings, and events as needed for business purposes.
Why work for OFM
The Office of Financial Management (OFM) serves as the backbone of Washington state government. Our mission is to make our state a better place by connecting people, budgets, policies, data, and systems for state agencies and the Legislature. Our team includes budget advisors, researchers, and other experts, all dedicated public servants working towards an equitable future for every Washingtonian. If you want to play a key role in enhancing how state government serves its citizens, you’ve found the right place. Join us in making a meaningful difference for every Washingtonian!
The job opportunity
We are seeking a Senior Mainframe COBOL Developer to support the critical statewide mainframe accounting system, Agency Financial Reporting System (AFRS), and Capital Asset Management System (CAMS). In this role, the work performed ensures that AFRS and CAMS remain operational, compliant with evolving state and federal legislative requirements, and changes as required by business are implemented. You have an opportunity to play a key role in safeguarding the reliability and performance of systems that underpin core governmental operations.
As a Senior Mainframe COBOL Developer, you will independently design, develop, test, maintain, and support enterprise-level mainframe accounting applications written in COBOL, CICS, and JCL. Your responsibilities include implementing system changes as required by the legislature, business, and WaTech’s contracted mainframe hosting and managed service provider, resolving complex production issues, and translating detailed business and legislative requirements into technical solutions. This role demands strong analytical skills, disciplined testing practices, and the ability to sustain high-availability, mission-critical environments where precision and stability are essential.
This opportunity is ideal for a technical professional who thrives in complex computing environments and values meaningful impact. If you are motivated to solve complex problems and deliver resilient solutions that matter at scale, this role offers both challenge and purpose.
What you’ll work on
- Provide expert consultation and specialized analysis, design, development, programming, testing, troubleshooting, and/or problem resolution for the AFRS mainframe application, which is a high-risk/high-impact and mission-critical application written in the COBOL programming language.
- Develop and maintain batch and online applications.
- Develop and maintain JCL (Job Control Language) and support CICS-based online applications.
- Work with IBM z/OS environments, DB2 and/or VSAM file structures.
- Apply knowledge of development and processes to advise teams on the readiness of software applications to be implemented in a production environment and is knowledgeable of the effect that modifications have on related systems.
- Analyze all technical system change decisions; identify probable resulting outcomes and provide feedback to the work unit/team members and business owner.
- Solve software/hardware problems, including defining and analyzing the problem, performing impact analysis, identifying and testing solutions, choosing and implementing the best solution, documenting the changes as needed, and evaluating the outcome.
- Develop and implement standards, methods, tools, procedures, and processes.
- Review, monitor, and report development progress and results following established standards, guidelines, and procedures.
- Serve as a technical mentor to other system developers in resolving complex technical issues.
- Use bug tracking tools such as Azure DevOps, Excel, and Microsoft Word to create spreadsheets, log issues and bugs, and create documentation.
- Produce and ensure that internal technical and procedural documentation is current.
- Follow IT change and release management processes.
- Analyze business requirements and translate them into technical solutions.
- Modify existing programs to enhance functionality or resolve defects.
- Take independent action to correct problems encountered during systems operations, 24/7.
- Provide level 2/3 support, monitor, and resolve production incidents. Work closely with System Analysts to resolve customer-reported production issues.
- Troubleshoot batch failures and performance issues.
- Participate in after-hours standby rotation.
- Perform unit testing and support integration/system testing.
- Participate in defect resolution and root cause analysis.
- Ensure adherence to coding standards and secure coding practices.
What we need you to bring
Required Qualifications:
- Recent application development experience in a mainframe environment using COBOL, JCL, CICS, VSAM, IBM z/OS.
- Expertise in COBOL (batch and online programs), including debugging and performance tuning.
- Strong experience with structured programming and legacy code maintenance.
- Advanced ability to write, modify, and troubleshoot JCL.
- Strong ability to manage batch jobs, datasets, and utilities.
- Strong understanding of job scheduling concepts.
- Ability to develop and maintain CICS online transactions.
- Understanding of VSAM and file handling – KSDS, ESDS, RRDS file structures, file definitions, and access methods.
- Strong mainframe environment knowledge (z/OS Operating System – Dataset management, ISPF usage, etc.; Utilities and Tools – SORT utilities, File-AID, etc.; Job Scheduling Tools – CA-7, etc.; Source Management – Endevor).
- Ability to perform unit, integration, regression testing, and code reviews.
- Ability to independently perform after-hours standby support.
- Advanced ability to problem-solve in legacy environments.
- Strong analytical skills/ability to research issues and find root cause.
- Strong documentation experience.
- Strong verbal and written communications.
- Ability to learn complex processes and information quickly.
- Demonstrated commitment to teamwork, customer service, and working under tight deadlines.
- The ability to take action to learn and grow.
- The ability to meet the needs of others.
Desired Qualifications:
- Degree in Computer Science or related area (Mathematics, Engineering, Database Design).
- Washington State mainframe environment experience.
- Knowledge of the Agency Financial Reporting System (AFRS).
- Understanding of DB2 for z/OS – stored procedures, query optimization and indexing, handling cursors, and transaction management.
- Knowledge and ability to develop in non-COBOL technologies such as .Net, C#, Angular, Entity Framework, SQL, HTML, CSS, JavaScript, etc.
- Experience using a defect tracking tool.
- Knowledge of security and/or performance/stress/load testing.
- Experience using Microsoft Office Suite.
- Knowledge of accounting and/or transaction-based applications.
- Financial and/or state government knowledge.
Special Requirements:
Must successfully pass a criminal background check.
Supplemental Information
What we offer
At OFM, we foster a culture of integrity, innovation, inclusion, and belonging. We value both learned and lived experiences, believing that diversity makes us stronger. To support your health and well-being, we offer a variety of benefit programs for our employees.
Please visit our Recruitment for a full list of benefits available to employees. Here’s a quick glance at some of the unique benefits that OFM offers:
- A culture that values and strives to advance diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging.
- Medical, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance.
- 12 paid holidays, 14 paid vacation days (minimum), and 12 days of sick leave per year.
- State retirement programs.
Application Process: Once you’ve decided to apply for a state government job, you’ll complete an online application to showcase your qualifications. Keep in mind that once you submit the application, a real person will read it. We do not use AI or other technology to screen your application. Please ensure you provide clear, detailed information about your work history so your qualifications can be accurately assessed. We will contact the top candidates directly to schedule interviews. If you require a reasonable accommodation during the application process, please call 7-1-1 or 1-800-833-6384.
When completing your application, we encourage you to attach all of the following:
- Cover letter: describing your qualifications for this specific position.
- Resume: that details your applicable experience and education.
- References: at least three professional references and their current contact information.
Questions: OFM's Staff ASL interpreter is available to all deaf and hard-of-hearing applicants. For questions about this recruitment or to request a reasonable accommodation in the application or interview process, please email us at TalentAcquisition@ofm.wa.gov.
The Office of Financial Management is an equal opportunity employer. We strive to create a working environment that includes and respects cultural, racial, ethnic, sexual orientation, and gender identity diversity. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, persons with disabilities, persons over 40 years of age, and disabled and Vietnam-era veterans are encouraged to apply.
This position is exempt from civil service rules.
For more information, please see WAC 357-19-195.
Description
Note: This position will remain open until filled. It is at the hiring manager's discretion to make a hiring decision at any time and close the recruitment. It is in your best interest to apply as soon as possible. Applications will be reviewed daily. We anticipate interviews to begin the week of July 13, 2026.
Hybrid: Our physical office is in Olympia, WA. We offer flexible work schedules and locations. This is a hybrid position where most of the work allows teleworking. However, you must reside in the state of Washington and travel to in-person activities, meetings, and events as needed for business purposes.
Why work for OFM
The Office of Financial Management (OFM) serves as the backbone of Washington state government. Our mission is to make our state a better place by connecting people, budgets, policies, data, and systems for state agencies and the Legislature. Our team includes budget advisors, researchers, and other experts, all dedicated public servants working towards an equitable future for every Washingtonian. If you want to play a key role in enhancing how state government serves its citizens, you’ve found the right place. Join us in making a meaningful difference for every Washingtonian!
The job opportunity
We are seeking a Senior Mainframe COBOL Developer to support the critical statewide mainframe accounting system, Agency Financial Reporting System (AFRS), and Capital Asset Management System (CAMS). In this role, the work performed ensures that AFRS and CAMS remain operational, compliant with evolving state and federal legislative requirements, and changes as required by business are implemented. You have an opportunity to play a key role in safeguarding the reliability and performance of systems that underpin core governmental operations.
As a Senior Mainframe COBOL Developer, you will independently design, develop, test, maintain, and support enterprise-level mainframe accounting applications written in COBOL, CICS, and JCL. Your responsibilities include implementing system changes as required by the legislature, business, and WaTech’s contracted mainframe hosting and managed service provider, resolving complex production issues, and translating detailed business and legislative requirements into technical solutions. This role demands strong analytical skills, disciplined testing practices, and the ability to sustain high-availability, mission-critical environments where precision and stability are essential.
This opportunity is ideal for a technical professional who thrives in complex computing environments and values meaningful impact. If you are motivated to solve complex problems and deliver resilient solutions that matter at scale, this role offers both challenge and purpose.
What you’ll work on
- Provide expert consultation and specialized analysis, design, development, programming, testing, troubleshooting, and/or problem resolution for the AFRS mainframe application, which is a high-risk/high-impact and mission-critical application written in the COBOL programming language.
- Develop and maintain batch and online applications.
- Develop and maintain JCL (Job Control Language) and support CICS-based online applications.
- Work with IBM z/OS environments, DB2 and/or VSAM file structures.
- Apply knowledge of development and processes to advise teams on the readiness of software applications to be implemented in a production environment and is knowledgeable of the effect that modifications have on related systems.
- Analyze all technical system change decisions; identify probable resulting outcomes and provide feedback to the work unit/team members and business owner.
- Solve software/hardware problems, including defining and analyzing the problem, performing impact analysis, identifying and testing solutions, choosing and implementing the best solution, documenting the changes as needed, and evaluating the outcome.
- Develop and implement standards, methods, tools, procedures, and processes.
- Review, monitor, and report development progress and results following established standards, guidelines, and procedures.
- Serve as a technical mentor to other system developers in resolving complex technical issues.
- Use bug tracking tools such as Azure DevOps, Excel, and Microsoft Word to create spreadsheets, log issues and bugs, and create documentation.
- Produce and ensure that internal technical and procedural documentation is current.
- Follow IT change and release management processes.
- Analyze business requirements and translate them into technical solutions.
- Modify existing programs to enhance functionality or resolve defects.
- Take independent action to correct problems encountered during systems operations, 24/7.
- Provide level 2/3 support, monitor, and resolve production incidents. Work closely with System Analysts to resolve customer-reported production issues.
- Troubleshoot batch failures and performance issues.
- Participate in after-hours standby rotation.
- Perform unit testing and support integration/system testing.
- Participate in defect resolution and root cause analysis.
- Ensure adherence to coding standards and secure coding practices.
What we need you to bring
Required Qualifications:
- Recent application development experience in a mainframe environment using COBOL, JCL, CICS, VSAM, IBM z/OS.
- Expertise in COBOL (batch and online programs), including debugging and performance tuning.
- Strong experience with structured programming and legacy code maintenance.
- Advanced ability to write, modify, and troubleshoot JCL.
- Strong ability to manage batch jobs, datasets, and utilities.
- Strong understanding of job scheduling concepts.
- Ability to develop and maintain CICS online transactions.
- Understanding of VSAM and file handling – KSDS, ESDS, RRDS file structures, file definitions, and access methods.
- Strong mainframe environment knowledge (z/OS Operating System – Dataset management, ISPF usage, etc.; Utilities and Tools – SORT utilities, File-AID, etc.; Job Scheduling Tools – CA-7, etc.; Source Management – Endevor).
- Ability to perform unit, integration, regression testing, and code reviews.
- Ability to independently perform after-hours standby support.
- Advanced ability to problem-solve in legacy environments.
- Strong analytical skills/ability to research issues and find root cause.
- Strong documentation experience.
- Strong verbal and written communications.
- Ability to learn complex processes and information quickly.
- Demonstrated commitment to teamwork, customer service, and working under tight deadlines.
- The ability to take action to learn and grow.
- The ability to meet the needs of others.
Desired Qualifications:
- Degree in Computer Science or related area (Mathematics, Engineering, Database Design).
- Washington State mainframe environment experience.
- Knowledge of the Agency Financial Reporting System (AFRS).
- Understanding of DB2 for z/OS – stored procedures, query optimization and indexing, handling cursors, and transaction management.
- Knowledge and ability to develop in non-COBOL technologies such as .Net, C#, Angular, Entity Framework, SQL, HTML, CSS, JavaScript, etc.
- Experience using a defect tracking tool.
- Knowledge of security and/or performance/stress/load testing.
- Experience using Microsoft Office Suite.
- Knowledge of accounting and/or transaction-based applications.
- Financial and/or state government knowledge.
Special Requirements:
Must successfully pass a criminal background check.
Supplemental Information
What we offer
At OFM, we foster a culture of integrity, innovation, inclusion, and belonging. We value both learned and lived experiences, believing that diversity makes us stronger. To support your health and well-being, we offer a variety of benefit programs for our employees.
Please visit our Recruitment for a full list of benefits available to employees. Here’s a quick glance at some of the unique benefits that OFM offers:
- A culture that values and strives to advance diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging.
- Medical, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance.
- 12 paid holidays, 14 paid vacation days (minimum), and 12 days of sick leave per year.
- State retirement programs.
Application Process: Once you’ve decided to apply for a state government job, you’ll complete an online application to showcase your qualifications. Keep in mind that once you submit the application, a real person will read it. We do not use AI or other technology to screen your application. Please ensure you provide clear, detailed information about your work history so your qualifications can be accurately assessed. We will contact the top candidates directly to schedule interviews. If you require a reasonable accommodation during the application process, please call 7-1-1 or 1-800-833-6384.
When completing your application, we encourage you to attach all of the following:
- Cover letter: describing your qualifications for this specific position.
- Resume: that details your applicable experience and education.
- References: at least three professional references and their current contact information.
Questions: OFM's Staff ASL interpreter is available to all deaf and hard-of-hearing applicants. For questions about this recruitment or to request a reasonable accommodation in the application or interview process, please email us at TalentAcquisition@ofm.wa.gov.
The Office of Financial Management is an equal opportunity employer. We strive to create a working environment that includes and respects cultural, racial, ethnic, sexual orientation, and gender identity diversity. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, persons with disabilities, persons over 40 years of age, and disabled and Vietnam-era veterans are encouraged to apply.
This position is exempt from civil service rules.
For more information, please see WAC 357-19-195.
See all Cobol Developer Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new Cobol Developer roles.
Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding Visa Sponsorship as a Cobol Developer
Target financial institutions and government contractors first
Banks, insurance companies, and federal contractors run the largest legacy COBOL systems in the U.S. and sponsor visas most consistently. These employers have established immigration pipelines and are accustomed to the H-1B and EB-3 processes.
Frame your degree as a match for the specialty occupation standard
USCIS requires a directly related bachelor's degree for H-1B eligibility. Computer science, information systems, or software engineering degrees map cleanly. If your degree is in another field, document how your coursework directly supports COBOL development work.
Emphasize mainframe-specific skills that domestic candidates lack
JCL, VSAM, CICS, DB2, and IMS expertise are genuinely scarce in the U.S. labor market. Highlighting these in your application strengthens the employer's case for sponsorship and reduces pushback during the prevailing wage and LCA filing stages.
Expect EB-3 green card sponsorship alongside H-1B
Many COBOL employers sponsor both H-1B status and EB-3 permanent residency because turnover is costly and institutional knowledge is hard to replace. Ask about green card timelines during the offer negotiation phase, not after you've already signed.
Understand that COBOL roles often qualify as specialty occupations without dispute
The DOL consistently recognizes software developer and programmer analyst roles as specialty occupations. A job posting that specifies a bachelor's degree in a computing field and relevant technical skills is well-positioned for approval without an RFE.
Use Migrate Mate to find employers actively filing for COBOL roles
Not every employer advertising a COBOL position is open to sponsorship. Migrate Mate filters for roles where sponsorship is explicitly offered, saving you from applying to positions that will stall at the offer stage due to immigration constraints.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do COBOL developer roles qualify for H-1B visa sponsorship?
Yes. COBOL developer positions qualify as specialty occupations under USCIS guidelines because they require at least a bachelor's degree in computer science, information systems, or a related field. Employers filing H-1B visa petitions for these roles rarely face challenges on the specialty occupation question, since the DOL's occupational classification for software developers and programmer analysts is well established. An RFE is more likely if your degree field doesn't closely match the role.
Which visa types are most common for sponsored COBOL developer jobs?
H-1B is the primary visa for COBOL developers already in the U.S. or coming from abroad through employer sponsorship. L-1B is an option if you're transferring within a multinational company with specialized COBOL knowledge. EB-3 is the most common green card pathway, and many large financial and government employers sponsor both H-1B status and EB-3 concurrently. Australians may also qualify for the E-3 visa, which has no lottery.
Does my degree need to be in computer science specifically to qualify?
Not strictly. USCIS accepts degrees in computer science, information systems, software engineering, mathematics, or closely related fields for COBOL developer roles. What matters is that the degree is in a specific specialty that's directly applicable to the position. A general business degree won't qualify, but a degree in management information systems typically will. If your degree is in a borderline field, a detailed employer support letter explaining the connection helps significantly.
Are COBOL developer sponsorship approvals higher than average?
COBOL and mainframe developer roles historically have strong approval rates because the specialty occupation standard is easy to meet and domestic labor market shortages are well documented. Employers who regularly sponsor these roles, particularly large banks and insurance companies, often have experienced immigration counsel who minimize RFE risk. The H-1B lottery remains the primary obstacle, not the petition itself. Browse sponsored openings on Migrate Mate to identify employers with active sponsorship programs.
Can I get sponsored as a COBOL developer if I only have work experience and no degree?
It's more difficult but not impossible. USCIS allows a combination of education and experience to satisfy specialty occupation requirements, with three years of specialized experience substituting for one year of formal education. For a four-year degree, you'd need 12 years of directly relevant COBOL experience. The employer would also need to document that the position normally requires a degree, which is a harder argument to make without one. An immigration attorney's assessment is strongly recommended before pursuing this route.
What is the prevailing wage requirement for sponsored Cobol Developer jobs?
U.S. employers sponsoring a visa must pay at least the prevailing wage, which is what workers in the same role, area, and experience level typically earn. The Department of Labor sets this rate to make sure companies aren't hiring foreign workers simply because they'd accept lower pay than a U.S. worker. It varies by job title, location, and experience. You can look up current prevailing wage rates for any occupation and location using the OFLC Wage Search page.