Hiring a COBOL Developer – How to Find the Right Hire in 2024

As new programming languages and generative AI gain traction, it’s surprising to learn that many Fortune 500 companies still rely on legacy technologies like COBOL. Even in 2024, COBOL remains relevant, with around 95% of ATM transactions still using COBOL code. The reason? Its unmatched reliability and stability make it indispensable for critical functions like finance and other industries.

But before we delve into how to hire a COBOL developer, let us take a brief look at the benefits of hiring one. 

Many organizations rely on legacy COBOL systems to run critical business operations. Hiring COBOL developers ensures these systems’ ongoing maintenance, support, and optimization, safeguarding business continuity and operational efficiency.

COBOL developers bring valuable domain expertise and industry knowledge to the table, particularly in sectors where COBOL remains prevalent, such as banking, finance, insurance, and government. Their understanding of industry-specific regulations, compliance requirements, and business processes is instrumental in developing and maintaining mission-critical applications.

As businesses embark on digital transformation initiatives, COBOL developers are crucial in integrating legacy COBOL systems with modern technologies and platforms. They help streamline business processes, enhance user experiences, and facilitate the seamless integration of COBOL applications with emerging technologies such as cloud computing, big data, and IoT.

COBOL developers are well-versed in addressing security concerns and compliance requirements associated with legacy systems. They implement robust security measures, encryption protocols, and access controls to protect sensitive data and mitigate cybersecurity risks, ensuring regulatory compliance and data integrity.

COBOL developers possess the expertise to optimize the performance and scalability of COBOL applications, enabling them to handle increasing workloads and accommodate business growth. They leverage performance tuning techniques, code refactoring, and architectural enhancements to improve application responsiveness and resource efficiency.

Despite the perception of COBOL as a legacy technology, hiring COBOL developers can offer significant cost savings and return on investment (ROI) for organizations. By leveraging existing COBOL assets and maximizing the lifespan of legacy systems, businesses can avoid the high costs and risks associated with wholesale system replacement or migration.

1. Proficiency in COBOL syntax, including data types, structures, and syntax rules.
2. Mastery of SQL for database operations, including querying, data manipulation, and transaction management.
3. Expertise in utilizing mainframe environments, such as z/OS, TSO, and ISPF for COBOL development.
4. Knowledge of integration technologies like SOAP and RESTful APIs for interfacing COBOL applications with other systems.
5. Experience with batch processing tools like JCL (Job Control Language) for executing COBOL programs in batch jobs.
6. Understanding of COBOL file handling techniques, including sequential, indexed, and relative file processing.
7. Proficiency in performance tuning and optimization techniques, including COBOL compiler options and SQL query optimization.
8. Familiarity with version control systems like Git or SVN for managing source code repositories.
9. Debugging skills using debugging tools like IBM Debug Tool or Xpediter for identifying and resolving errors in COBOL programs.
10. Knowledge of software development methodologies such as Agile or Waterfall for managing COBOL projects.

1. Clear and concise communication skills for articulating technical concepts and collaborating with team members.
2. Attention to detail in code writing and debugging to ensure accuracy and reliability.
3. Adaptability to learn new technologies and methodologies as per project requirements.
4. Analytical thinking to comprehend complex business logic and translate it into efficient COBOL code.
5. Time management skills to prioritize tasks and meet project deadlines.
6. Problem-solving abilities to identify and resolve technical challenges encountered during development.
7. Creativity in designing innovative solutions to programming problems within COBOL constraints.
8. Initiative to take ownership of tasks and drive them to completion independently.
9. Patience and perseverance in tackling complex coding issues and debugging challenges.
10. Empathy towards end-users to understand their needs and ensure COBOL applications meet their requirements effectively.

In 2024 and beyond, COBOL and its developers remain crucial. At KMTEQ, we understand its importance for businesses. Partnering with us grants access to skilled COBOL developers with technical proficiency and essential soft skills. Our rigorous screening process ensures only the best fit for each project. Plus, our commitment to ongoing support keeps developers updated on industry trends. Whether it’s legacy system maintenance or modernization, KMTEQ developers deliver exceptional results.