Middle UNIX / Linux Systems Engineer

ABOUT FORFIRM

FORFIRM delivers innovative, tailored solutions to real business challenges by combining deep industry expertise with a flexible, knowledge-driven approach. We are proud to be a company with no predefined barriers or rigid frameworks: we listen, we understand, and we build solutions that truly meet our clients' needs. Our culture is based on meritocracy, openness, and personal initiative - a place where everyone can shape their role and contribute meaningfully.

ABOUT THE ROLE

We are looking for an experienced Middle UNIX / Linux Systems Engineer to join our international team and contribute to complex infrastructure projects for Swiss and European clients. The ideal candidate brings deep hands-on expertise in large-scale UNIX and Linux environments, combined with solid knowledge of middleware platforms, container orchestration, and infrastructure automation. The role requires a structured engineering mindset, the ability to operate autonomously, and strong collaboration skills within cross-functional technical teams.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Middleware & Application Lifecycle

• Install, configure, and administer IBM WebSphere, Open Liberty, and related middleware products across development, test, and production environments
• Support the full application lifecycle including packaging, deployment, and ongoing operational support across multiple environment tiers
• Contribute to the design and maintenance of web-based application infrastructure using modern development languages such as Java, .NET, or Python

Infrastructure Automation & Container Orchestration

• Knowledge of Kubernetes deployments across production and non-production environments
• Design, implement, and maintain Infrastructure as Code solutions using tools such as Ansible and Terraform
• Develop and maintain automation scripts in Bash and Python to support operational efficiency and repeatability

Systems Engineering & Performance

• Engineer robust solutions for the deployment, performance management, and maintenance of UNIX-based systems, with a strong focus on design quality, maintainability, and scalability
• Apply deep knowledge of UNIX subsystem performance considerations to proactively identify and resolve bottlenecks
• Manage TCP/IP Unix networking configurations and troubleshoot connectivity issues across complex infrastructure environments
• Participate actively in collaborative technical reviews, contributing ideas, evaluating solutions on merit, and supporting consensus-driven design decisions

WHAT ARE WE LOOKING FOR?

• Minimum 5 years of experience in engineering and administration of large-scale UNIX environments; knowledge of AIX 7 is a plus
• Minimum 5 years of experience in Linux environment engineering and administration, covering RHEL and Debian distributions
• Solid proficiency in Bash and Python scripting and the ability to maintain and extend existing automation solutions
• Strong working knowledge of Infrastructure as Code tools including Ansible and Terraform
• Knowledge of Kubernetes administration and troubleshooting
• Experience with focus on Systems Engineering and problem determination on Power7/8 hardware is a plus
• Solid understanding of application development techniques and modern development languages
• Effective TCP/IP Unix networking skills
• High proficiency in both English and Italian, written and spoken

Soft Skills

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, including system documentation and project management capabilities
• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills with effective performance monitoring and tuning experience
• Proven ability to work autonomously with minimal supervision while managing priorities effectively
• Collaborative mindset with experience mentoring and supporting colleagues in technical environments

WHAT WE OFFER

• Involvement in complex, high-impact infrastructure projects within leading Swiss and European organisations
• A highly meritocratic environment with structured growth and development paths
• A collaborative and dynamic team culture built on knowledge sharing and continuous improvement

Please note that a fully remote working arrangement is not available for this role. Candidates should be prepared to relocate to Canton Ticino or to Italian border areas close to Switzerland. FORFIRM is an equal opportunity employer that values diversity. All qualified applicants will be considered without discrimination based on race, religion, colour, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability.