SYSTEMS ADMINISTRATOR II - - iSeries

Overview

The Systems Administrator – iSeries is responsible for the technical architecture of the enterprise’s IBM iSeries systems including hardware and software support, and technical systems administration. This includes implementation, configuration, coordination, control, maintenance, troubleshooting, performance tuning, security, usage monitoring, data replication of systems, role-swap planning and execution, and the development of specialized procedures relating to the use of the systems within the enterprise. 

Responsibilities

• System administration: Perform daily maintenance, configuration, and monitoring of iSeries systems and related infrastructure. 
• VIOS and HMC management: Install, configure, and maintain the VIOS, HMC, and iSeries power systems hardware and firmware. 
• Performance tuning and optimization: Analyze system performance, configure resource partitions (CPU, memory, disk), and implement tuning strategies to ensure high availability and performance. 
• Upgrades and patching: Plan, test, and implement OS, firmware, and PTF (Program Temporary Fix) upgrades. 
• Backup and recovery: Manage backup and restore processes, often using tools like BRMS. 
• Security: Implement and maintain security best practices, manage user access, and monitor for security threats. 
• Troubleshooting: Provide technical support to users and other IT teams, using dumps and traces to identify and resolve system issues. 
• Documentation: Create and maintain system documentation, procedures, and reports. 
• Project management: Work on projects such as disaster recovery, system migrations, and hardware upgrades
• HA and DR: Plans and manages periodic execution of scheduled role-swaps
• Document: new and complex techniques and devices arising from the R&D process
• Performs other duties as assigned

Qualifications

• IBM iSeries (AS400): In-depth knowledge of the OS/400 operating system. 
• VIOS: Experience with managing Virtual I/O Servers for partitioned systems. 
• HMC: Proficiency with the Hardware Management Console for managing logical partitions (LPARs). 
• Storage: Experience with storage-based replication (e.g., IBM Global Mirror), SAN, and BRMS. 
• Firmware: Experience with power systems firmware and OS upgrades. 
• Scripting: Skills in CL and SQL for automation and basic scripting are often required. 
• Networking: Working knowledge of networking (Ethernet , TCP/IP, DNS)
• Troubleshooting tools: Familiarity with tools for performance monitoring and problem isolation. 
• Certifications: Relevant certifications like IBM iSeries certifications are beneficial.
• Soft skills: Strong problem-solving, communication, and collaboration skills are essential.