Sr. COBOL Developer ( COBOL to Java/Spring Batch)

We are seeking an experienced COBOL / Java / Spring Batch Developer to support a high-impact legacy modernization program for the Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS). This role involves analyzing, converting, and integrating complex mainframe-based COBOL applications into a modern Java / Spring Batch architecture as part of a large-scale, federally contracted initiative.

The developer will work closely with system analysts, data architects, testers, and subject-matter experts to ensure accurate translation of business logic, efficient batch processing, and alignment with enterprise standards. The target scope includes approximately 2.5 million lines of legacy code spanning VSAM, COBOL, IDMS, DB2, JCL, CICS, and related mainframe technologies.

Key Responsibilities

• Maintain, enhance, debug, and support legacy mainframe COBOL applications throughout the engagement.
• Design, build, test, and deploy batch-processing solutions using Java and the Spring Batch framework.
• Analyze and translate legacy COBOL functionality into functionally equivalent Java / Spring Batch implementations.
• Troubleshoot production issues, perform root-cause analysis, and implement timely corrective actions.
• Write and maintain Z/OS JCL scripts to support mainframe batch workflows.
• Collaborate with system analysts, data architects, testers, and subject-matter experts to validate converted business logic.
• Adhere to agency coding standards, security requirements, and documentation practices.
• Participate in code reviews and contribute to continuous improvement of development processes

Education

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field.

Experience

• Minimum 10 years of hands-on experience with COBOL, Java, and Spring Batch.
• Demonstrated proficiency in COBOL development on mainframe platforms, including maintenance, enhancement, debugging, and production support.
• Strong expertise in Java development using the Spring Batch framework.
• Z/OS JCL experience — writing and maintaining job control language for batch scheduling and execution.
• Solid understanding of mainframe environments, enterprise batch-processing workflows, and system integration patterns.
• Ability to analyze, translate, and modernize legacy COBOL codebases into Java/Spring Batch architectures.

Security & Compliance

• Active DoD Secret Clearance (or higher). Must be eligible for and successfully complete a DFAS background investigation at the Non-Critical Sensitive (NCS) / IT-II level.
• U.S. Citizenship required per federal contract and US Export Law requirements.

Job Type: Full-time

Benefits:

• Flexible schedule

Experience:

• COBOL: 10 years (Preferred)
• JAVA: 9 years (Preferred)
• Spring Batch: 10 years (Preferred)

Security clearance:

• Top Secret (Required)

Work Location: Remote