IBMi Systems Engineer

Duration: 2-week contract (approx. 80 hours)

Work Model: Remote & Onsite

Location: DePere, WI

Travel: Client will cover travel expenses if onsite work is required

Start Window: Early-Mid February (kickoff meetings anticipated week of Jan 19)

Our client is seeking an experienced IBM Power Systems Engineer to deliver the physical installation, configuration, and migration of a new IBM Power11 S1122 server, including vHMC, VIOS, and LTO9 tape integration. This role requires deep hands-on expertise across IBM i, Power hardware, VIOS, and backup/restore operations.

• 
  

  Assess and define networking requirements

  
  
• 
  

  Verify OS, firmware, and compatibility levels across Power9, Power11, vHMC, HMC, and LTO9

  
  
• 
  

  Apply latest PTFs to IBM i 7.4

  
  
• 
  

  Upgrade Power9 firmware

  
  
• 
  

  Install and configure vHMC

  
  
• 
  

  Validate system connectivity and document architecture/design

  
  

• 
  

  Rack, cable, and power Power11, LTO9, and storage

  
  
• 
  

  Configure eBMC (ASMI): TCP/IP, hostname, and NTP

  
  
• 
  

  Logically connect and discover Power11 via vHMC; configure VMI

  
  
• 
  

  Perform LTO9 migration (Power9 Power11) including Option 21 workflow

  
  
• 
  

  Test and troubleshoot hardware connectivity

  
  

• 
  

  Stage VIOS images in vHMC repository

  
  
• 
  

  Build and configure dual VIOS (v4.1) with validated CPU, memory, and virtual processor settings

  
  
• 
  

  Assign and validate I/O adapters and storage using WWPNs

  
  
• 
  

  Configure Ethernet Channel ports, SEA adapters, TCP/IP, hostnames, and domain

  
  
• 
  

  Apply IBM best practices and validate end-to-end connectivity

  
  

• 
  

  Create and configure new LPARs with network and storage adapters

  
  
• 
  

  IPL Power11 from Option 21 (LTO9, IBM i 7.4)

  
  
• 
  

  Configure SST, NVMe ASP, devices, and networking

  
  
• 
  

  Restore system from LTO9 backup

  
  
• 
  

  Apply license keys

  
  
• 
  

  Validate system values, devices, printers, subsystems, job scheduler, and backup configuration

  
  
• 
  

  Document final connectivity and system state

  
  

• 
  

  Support save/restore strategy and rack coexistence of Power9 and Power11

  
  
• 
  

  Alternative migration approach using new LPAR with network-based data transfer (QEDD license optional)

  
  
• 
  

  Provide guidance on trade-offs between migration methods

  
  

• 
  

  Strong hands-on experience with IBM Power Systems (Power9/Power11)

  
  
• 
  

  Deep expertise in IBM i 7.4, VIOS, vHMC, and LPAR configuration

  
  
• 
  

  Proven experience with Option 21 backups/restores and LTO tape (LTO9 preferred)

  
  
• 
  

  Hardware racking, cabling, and data center deployment experience

  
  
• 
  

  Excellent troubleshooting and documentation skills

  
  

After you have applied, download our Staffmark Group WorkNOW App to receive real-time job offers and apply for additional opportunities. You can download it from the App Store or get it on Google Play.

Advantage Technical connects top- talent in technology, engineering, and technical fields with forward-looking companies.

Advantage Technical is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status, or any other legally protected status. Advantage Technical offers reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities; contact your local branch for inquiries. Advantage Technical is an E-Verify employer. See our Privacy Notice for Candidates and Employees/Contractors at https://smgroupna.com/privacy-notice-for-candidates-and-employees-contractors. By applying, you consent to receive AI-generated and non-AI-generated calls, texts, or emails from Staffmark Group, its affiliates, and partners. Frequency varies and message/data rates may apply. Reply STOP to cancel or HELP for help.