COBOL Developer

Social Security Administration; Woodlawn (MD); On-site; USD 90,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

A federal governmental agency is seeking an IT Specialist (APPSW) COBOL Developer focused on developing high-performance applications and optimizing SQL queries. The role requires significant experience with COBOL and related technologies. Candidates must demonstrate problem-solving abilities, effective communication, and a dedication to public service. Join us to make a difference in managing Social Security programs and advance your career in a mission-driven environment.

Qualifications

• At least 52 weeks of specialized experience at the GS-13 level in mainframe applications.
• Experience in designing, developing, and maintaining using modern technologies.
• Leadership in technical teams and modernization of legacy systems for GS-15.

Responsibilities

• Architect, develop, and maintain high-performance business applications.
• Optimize SQL queries and data management for fast access in DB2 databases.
• Troubleshoot and resolve application issues to ensure uptime and performance.

Skills

Attention to Detail

Customer Service

Oral Communication

Problem Solving

Tools

COBOL

CICS

JCL

DB2

VSAM

SQL

IDMS

Job description

Summary

IT Specialist (APPSW) COBOL Developer positions are being filled through the Office of Personnel Management's delegated Direct Hire Authority and are open to all U.S. citizens. Selections made under this bulletin will be processed as new appointments to the civil service, and current civil service employees will receive new appointments accordingly. Under the Direct Hire Authority, Veterans Preference and the "Rule of Many" do not apply.

Duties

This announcement serves as public notice that applications will be placed into a pool and remain on file for selection as positions become available. Vacancies may be filled for up to six months after the closing date of the announcement. Applicants may not receive notifications of referral status until the full eligibility period has elapsed. Positions will be filled where cybersecurity duties occupy the majority of the work performed.

Key responsibilities include:

• Architect, develop, and maintain high‑performance business applications using modern COBOL, CICS, JCL, DB2, VSAM, and IDMS on our enterprise server platform.
• Optimize SQL queries and data management for fast, reliable access in DB2 databases.
• Implement and support batch processing jobs, leveraging advanced scheduling and monitoring tools.
• Engineer robust data storage and retrieval solutions using VSAM, ensuring integrity and speed.
• Utilize sophisticated file handling techniques for sequential, indexed, and relative files.
• Design and maintain data structures that support scalable, enterprise‑grade applications.
• Build and support OLTP systems using CICS and TSQ for real‑time, high‑volume transactions.
• Troubleshoot and resolve application issues to ensure maximum uptime and performance.
• Collaborate with business analysts, QA, and fellow developers to deliver innovative solutions.
• Prepare and maintain technical documentation, including program specifications, flowcharts, and user guides.
• Participate in code reviews and uphold best practices for quality and security.
• Support application testing, deployment, and post‑implementation activities in a fast‑paced environment.
• Identify and pursue opportunities to leverage AI‑driven tools to improve development efficiency.
• Stay informed about AI advancements and recommend ways to incorporate them into SSA's business systems where appropriate.

Qualifications

Resumes exceeding two pages will not be considered. Applicants must qualify for the 2210 IT Specialist series and the grade of the posted position, demonstrating sufficient experience and education to perform the specific duties described.

Required competencies for the 2210 IT Specialist series:

• Attention to Detail – Thorough and conscientious.
• Customer Service – Works with clients and customers to assess needs, provide assistance, and satisfy expectations.
• Oral Communication – Effectively communicates with diverse audiences, making clear and convincing presentations.
• Problem Solving – Identifies problems, evaluates alternatives, and makes sound recommendations.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Grade 14 – At least 52 weeks of specialized experience at the GS‑13 level (or equivalent) in designing, developing, and maintaining mainframe applications using COBOL, CICS, VSAM, JCL, DB2, SQL, and IDMS; supporting data integration and migration; and guiding technical teams.
• Grade 15 – At least 52 weeks of specialized experience at the GS‑14 level (or equivalent) with leadership of technical teams and modernizing legacy systems.

Qualification standards and additional information for this position can be found here: http://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/general-schedule-qualification-standards/2200/information-technology-it-management-series-2210-alternative-a/

Additional Information

See announcement cutoff dates below under How to Apply. Applications may be gathered from additional recruitment sources. This Direct Hire announcement may be used to fill the same or similar position in another office.

Selective Service: Male applicants born after December 31, 1959, must certify registration or exemption under the Selective Service Law.

Probationary Period: A one‑year probationary period will be undertaken to evaluate fitness and public‑interest contribution. Employment will be terminated unless certification is received that the continued employment advances the public interest.

• Your performance and conduct.
• The needs and interests of the agency.
• Whether continued employment would advance organizational goals of the agency or the Government.
• Whether continued employment would advance the efficiency of the Federal service.

Do you have a desire to help SSA manage its Social Security programs, analyze and solve problems, advise millions of retired and disabled individuals, work on a team to make a difference in people's lives, and advance your career? Join SSA, one of the Best Places to Work in the Federal Government!