COBOL DEVELOPER SKILLS, EXPERIENCE, AND JOB REQUIREMENTS

Reviewed by Lam Nguyen under Editorial Standards

Updated: Dec 09, 2024 - The COBOL Developer demonstrates advanced experience in mainframe COBOL and JCL application development, particularly in a Z/OS environment with DB2 databases. Proficiency in IDMS database administration, SQL error handling, and debugging is essential, along with general knowledge of DB2 load and unload utilities. Experience with relational databases and application interfaces, particularly in the banking and credit card sectors, Oracle Finance, AWS, MSP, and frontend Java applications

Essential Hard and Soft Skills for a Standout COBOL Developer Resume

  • COBOL Programming
  • Mainframe Systems
  • JCL
  • Database Management
  • CICS
  • Legacy Code Integration
  • SQL and Database Queries
  • Performance Optimization
  • Version Control Systems
  • Debugging Tools
  • Problem-Solving
  • Attention to Detail
  • Adaptability
  • Communication
  • Teamwork
  • Analytical Thinking
  • Time Management
  • Patience
  • Continuous Learning
  • Client Orientation

Summary of COBOL Developer Knowledge and Qualifications on Resume

1. BS in Computer Science with 4 years of Experience

  • Experience working with large COBOL programs that read and update complex mainframe IDMS databases.
  • Working experience with Batch/Online IDMS programs.
  • Working experience working with large databases and large companies is a plus.
  • Working experience maintaining existing legacy COBOL/IDMS programs is also a must.
  • Mainframe COBOL development experience
  • Deep experience and strong skillset in IBM mainframe COBOL Development, CICS, IMS, JCL, VSAM, DB2, IMSDB
  • Experience in Unisys mainframe 
  • Experience in using modern development editors (Visual Studio and/or Eclipse)
  • Experience in legacy modernization project
  • Experience with Micro Focus COBOL products (Enterprise Developer, Enterprise Server)
  • Experience with IBM mainframe operating system
  • Experience with JCL and developing COBOL programs

2. BS in Information Technology with 6 years of Experience

  • Experience in software design and development of enterprise applications with strong fundamental knowledge of the SDLC 
  • Experience with COBOL, Visual Basic, and SQL Server Insurance industry experience 
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills 
  • Strong problem-solving and organizational skills, attention to detail and ability to learn new technologies quickly
  • Must be proficient in Mainframe Cobol, JCL, VSAM, Changeman, Git/GitHub, ESP, z/OS Connect EE, and Apigee
  • Experience in COBOL programming 
  • Strong experience in implementing high quality production software using the following technologies: COBOL M/FL, CICS, Z/OS, TSO, SQL, MVS JCL technologies
  • Experience developing front-end using CICS 
  • Having experience in Banking Business background is a plus
  • Able to use English for business communication

3. BS in Software Engineering with 5 years of Experience

  • Programming experience using COBOL within the banking or insurance domain
  • Experience in SMART400, COBOL400 and CL400
  • Experience with relational databases and application interfaces with Banking and Credit Card, Oracle Finance, Case Manager, AWS, MSP and frontend Java applications desired
  • Experience working in an Agile environment desired
  • Experience defining solutions in a mainframe environment desired
  • Excellent communication skills
  • Advanced experience in IDMS database administration and development.
  • Advanced experience in mainframe COBOL and JCL application development, including SQL Error handling and Debugging, in a Z/OS environment accessing DB2 databases.
  • General DB2 load and unload utility knowledge.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • Must be a team player and get along well with others
  • Ability to independently research problems and provide solutions.

Professional Skills FAQs

What are professional skills?

Professional skills are abilities that help individuals perform tasks effectively in a workplace environment. These skills include both technical competencies required for specific roles and soft skills such as communication, teamwork, and problem solving.

What is the difference between hard skills and soft skills?

Hard skills are technical abilities learned through education or training, such as programming, data analysis, or laboratory testing. Soft skills refer to interpersonal abilities like communication, leadership, adaptability, and teamwork.

Why are professional skills important for careers and resumes?

Professional skills help employers evaluate whether a candidate can perform job responsibilities effectively. Listing relevant skills on a resume demonstrates qualifications and helps applications pass Applicant Tracking Systems used in modern hiring processes.

What professional skills do employers look for?

Employers usually value a combination of technical expertise and transferable workplace skills. Common examples include analytical thinking, communication, teamwork, leadership, time management, adaptability, and digital literacy.

How can professionals develop professional skills?

Professionals can develop skills through continuous learning, training programs, certifications, mentorship, and practical work experience. Staying updated with industry trends also helps individuals maintain relevant and competitive skills.

Editorial Process

Lamwork content is developed through structured review of publicly available job postings and documented hiring trends.

Editorial operations are managed by Thanh Huyen, Managing Editor, with research direction and final oversight by Lam Nguyen, Founder & Editorial Lead. Content is periodically reviewed to reflect observable labor market changes.

Relevant Information

COBOL Programmer Skills, Experience, and Job Requirements