Mainframe z/VM & Linux Engineer (C2C is not Possible)

Job Title: Mainframe z/VM & Linux EngineerWork Location: Phoenix, AZMode: Hybrid Role (3 Days/Week)Overview:We are seeking an experienced Mainframe z/VM & Linux Engineer to support Z virtualization environments and Linux on Z platforms. This role is responsible for provisioning, maintaining, and optimizing virtual machines and Linux systems running on z/VM, ensuring high availability, performance, and secure operations in enterprise environments.Responsibilities:z/VM Administration:Install, configure, and maintain z/VM systemsManage lifecycle of virtual machines (guests):ProvisioningScalingDecommissioningAdminister z/VM components such as:DirMaintVMSES/ERACF for z/VM securityApply system maintenance:RSUs, PTFs, APARs, and service updatesPerform system IPLs and hardware configuration updates via HMCLinux on Z Administration:Install, configure, and maintain Linux distributions on Z:RHEL, SUSE, UbuntuSupport deployment and management of Linux workloads on z/VMEnsure system stability, performance, and security compliancePerform patching, upgrades, and vulnerability remediationManage file systems, storage, and network configurationsOperations & Support:Monitor system performance and availability:CPU, memory, I/O utilizationWorkload performance and capacityTroubleshoot and resolve system issues:Performance bottlenecksVM failuresLinux system errorsAnalyze logs and system metrics to ensure operational stabilityProvide L2/L3 support for production environmentsAutomation & Integration:Automate provisioning and operational tasks using:REXX, Shell scripting, Python (preferred)Support DevOps and integration initiatives:CI/CD pipelinesContainer platforms (Docker, Kubernetes – optional)Assist application teams with deploying workloads on Linux on ZSecurity & Compliance:Implement and maintain security controls:RACF integration for z/VMLinux OS hardeningEnsure compliance with enterprise standards and audit requirementsSupport vulnerability management and patch remediationGovernance & Documentation:Maintain system documentation and configuration recordsEnsure all changes follow:ITIL / ServiceNow change management processesSupport DR planning and execution for z/VM and Linux systemsRequired Qualifications:Strong experience with:z/VM (z/VM 6.x / 7.x)Linux on Z (RHEL/SUSE/Ubuntu)Hands-on experience with:Virtual machine provisioning and managementVM directory management (DirMaint)System maintenance (RSUs, APARs, VMSES/E)Knowledge of:HMC operations and IPL processesStorage (DASD) and networking on z systemsStrong troubleshooting skills across:z/VM system issuesLinux OS performance and configurationPreferred Experience:Knowledge of Sysplex, networking, and storage integrationExperience with Monitoring tools (e.g., Grafana, OMEGAMON) and Automation tooling (Ansible, scripting)Exposure to Cloud integration / hybrid environments and Container workloads on Linux on Z