Mainframe z/VM & Linux Engineer - LXENGG 26-08175

Job Title: Mainframe z/VM & Linux Engineer
Duration: 6-Month [Contract-to-Hire]
Location: Phoenix, AZ (Hybrid 3 Days Onsite, 2 Days Remote)

Overview

We are seeking a skilled Mainframe z/VM & Linux Engineer to support and maintain enterprise-level IBM Z environments. This role involves managing z/VM systems, administering Linux on IBM Z, and ensuring system performance, security, and operational stability.

Key Responsibilities

<>z/VM Administration

• Install, configure, and maintain IBM z/VM systems
• Manage full lifecycle of virtual machines (guests): provisioning, scaling, and decommissioning
• Administer key z/VM components, including DirMaint, VMSES/E, and RACF for z/VM security
• Apply system maintenance such as RSUs, PTFs, APARs, and service updates
• Perform system IPLs and manage hardware configurations via HMC

<>Linux on Z Administration

• Install, configure, and maintain Linux distributions on IBM Z (RHEL, SUSE, Ubuntu)
• Support deployment and management of Linux workloads on z/VM
• Ensure system stability, performance, and security compliance
• Perform patching, upgrades, and vulnerability remediation
• Manage file systems, storage, and network configurations

<>Operations & Support

• Monitor system performance (CPU, memory, I/O utilization) and capacity
• Troubleshoot system issues including performance bottlenecks, VM failures, and Linux errors
• Analyze logs and metrics to maintain operational stability
• Provide L2/L3 production support

<>Automation & Integration

• Automate provisioning and operational tasks using REXX, Shell scripting, or Python
• Support DevOps initiatives including CI/CD pipelines
• Assist with container platforms (Docker, Kubernetes optional)
• Collaborate with application teams for workload deployment on Linux on Z

<>Security & Compliance

• Implement and maintain security controls including RACF integration
• Perform Linux OS hardening and ensure compliance with enterprise standards
• Support vulnerability management and remediation activities

<>Governance & Documentation

• Maintain system documentation and configuration records
• Ensure adherence to ITIL / ServiceNow change management processes
• Support disaster recovery (DR) planning and execution

Required Qualifications

• Strong experience with IBM z/VM (versions 6.x / 7.x)
• Hands-on experience with Linux on IBM Z (RHEL, SUSE, Ubuntu)
• Expertise in virtual machine provisioning and lifecycle management
• Experience with DirMaint and system maintenance tools (RSUs, APARs, VMSES/E)
• Knowledge of HMC operations and IPL processes
• Understanding of DASD storage and networking on IBM Z systems
• Strong troubleshooting skills across z/VM and Linux environments

Preferred Qualifications

• Knowledge of Sysplex, networking, and storage integration
• Experience with monitoring tools (e.g., Grafana, OMEGAMON)
• Familiarity with automation tools such as Ansible and scripting frameworks
• Exposure to cloud or hybrid environments
• Experience with container workloads on Linux on Z