Last time I checked DMV of SC pays $50K salary with no remote work option for COBOL position. And requires 2 years of experience. Granted, it’s a state job, I get it, but still.
Whenever I hear about a skills shortage (in any field), I automatically append the phrase "at the salary we want to pay" and that completes the equation.
Also, there’s usually 2-3 layers of pimps (prime and subcontractors) who take a vig at each layer. Total comp for the contractor is usually rate divided by 3 or 4.