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Contract Tactical Data Link Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Canvas

Tactical Data Link Engineer

Niceville, FL

$106K - $127K/yr

Key Responsibilities * Operate and monitor real tactical hardware (data link radios, GPS/INS units, RF frontends) within HITL simulation environments. * Integrate hardware with ...

Canvas

Tactical Data Link Engineer

Niceville, FL · On-site

$106K - $127K/yr

Operate and monitor real tactical hardware (data link radios, GPS/INS units, RF front-ends) within HITL simulation environments. * Integrate hardware with Live-Virtual-Constructive (LVC ...

Astrion

Tactical Data Link Test Engineer - Senior

FL · On-site

$100K - $131K/yr

Overview Tactical Data Link Test Engineer - Senior LOCATION: Eglin AFB, FL JOB STATUS: Full-time ... Service contract where it has earned a reputation for on-time delivery of high-quality products ...

Prevailance

Tactical Data Link SME

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

Job Type Full-time, Contract Description Status: This position is currently filled, however we are ... This role provides direct support to pre-deployment training, Multi-Tactical Data Link ( MTDL ...

Future Technologies, Inc.

Data Link Analyst

Moorestown, NJ · On-site

$85K - $95K/yr

Conduct advanced tactical data link engineering, analysis and simulation systems operations. * Support all aspects of testing Naval tactical systems and tactical data link (TDL) capabilities of C4ISR ...

Auria

Tactical Data Link (TDL) Analyst

Camp Pendleton, CA

$115K - $120K/yr

Auria is looking to hire a Tactical Data Link (TDL) Analyst. This role is ONSITE at Camp Pendleton ... Contract permitting, use Flex Time to work in a way that fits your life, not just your 8-to-5. * 11 ...

Prevailance

Tactical Data Link SME

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

This role provides direct support to pre-deployment training, Multi-Tactical Data Link ( MTDL ... contract. Prevailance, Inc. participates in E-Verify and is VEVRAA Compliant.

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Contract Tactical Data Link information

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How much do contract tactical data link jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for contract tactical data link in the United States is $56.81, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46.63 and $67.31 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How does a Contract Tactical Data Link specialist typically collaborate with other teams during joint operations or exercises?

A Contract Tactical Data Link specialist regularly works alongside communications, IT, and operations teams to ensure seamless data exchange between various military platforms. Collaboration often involves configuring and troubleshooting data link systems, participating in mission planning meetings, and providing technical support during live operations or exercises. Effective communication and coordination with cross-functional teams are essential for timely issue resolution and successful mission outcomes. This collaborative environment allows specialists to gain experience with different technologies and operational procedures, making it a dynamic and engaging role.

What is a Contract Tactical Data Link specialist?

A Contract Tactical Data Link specialist is a professional who manages and oversees the implementation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of tactical data link systems under contractual agreements, often for defense or government clients. These systems facilitate secure, real-time communication and data exchange between military platforms such as ships, aircraft, and ground units. The specialist is responsible for ensuring interoperability, system integration, and compliance with technical standards. Their work is critical for mission success, as reliable data links enable coordinated operations and situational awareness. Contract Tactical Data Link specialists may also provide training and technical support to end-users.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Contract Tactical Data Link Specialist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Contract Tactical Data Link Specialist, you need expertise in tactical data link protocols (such as Link 16 or Link 11), network integration, and a background in military communications or systems engineering, often supported by relevant security clearances. Familiarity with technical tools like data link management systems, network simulation software, and certifications such as CompTIA Security+ or CISSP are commonly required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you troubleshoot issues and coordinate with diverse stakeholders. These skills ensure reliable and secure data exchanges critical for mission success and operational coordination in defense environments.

What is the difference between Contract Tactical Data Link vs Tactical Data Analyst?

AspectContract Tactical Data LinkTactical Data Analyst
CredentialsSecurity clearance, technical certificationsData analysis certifications, security clearance
Work EnvironmentMilitary, defense contractors, secure facilitiesMilitary, government agencies, defense industry
Employer & IndustryDefense contractors, military unitsMilitary, defense agencies, intelligence
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles in defense data communicationAnalyzing military data for operational insights

The Contract Tactical Data Link role focuses on managing secure communication systems between military units, requiring technical certifications and security clearances. In contrast, a Tactical Data Analyst interprets military data to support operational decisions. Both roles operate within defense environments but serve different functions in military data management and analysis.

What cities are hiring for Contract Tactical Data Link jobs? Cities with the most Contract Tactical Data Link job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Tactical Data Link jobs? The most popular types of Tactical Data Link jobs are:
What states have the most Contract Tactical Data Link jobs? States with the most job openings for Contract Tactical Data Link jobs include:
Contract Tactical Data Link jobs near you
Infographic showing various Contract Tactical Data Link job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 62% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 17% Contract. Highlights an 80% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 18% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $118,171 per year, or $56.8 per hour.
Tactical Data Link Engineer

Tactical Data Link Engineer

Canvas

Niceville, FL

$106K - $127K/yr

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

Key Responsibilities

  • Operate and monitor real tactical hardware (data link radios, GPS/INS units, RF frontends) within HITL simulation environments.
  • Integrate hardware with LiveVirtualConstructive (LVC) architectures, enabling real equipment to interact with virtual platforms.
  • Configure, initialize, and monitor LVCintegrated TDL networks during simulation test events.
  • Troubleshoot hardware/software interfaces, timing, synchronization.
  • Operate and analyze Link16 and similar or related tactical data link systems.
  • Research, develop and modernize existing TDL HITL emulators to ensure continued relevance and interoperability with emerging, modernized TDLenabled weapon systems and UAS platforms
  • Build, decode, and evaluate TDL messages and network architectures.
  • Support gateway operations, network initialization, and realtime monitoring during events.
  • Present technical findings and recommend improvements to system designs.
  • Assess proposals, requirements, and system documentation for technical feasibility and proper allocation of navigation/TSPI requirements.
  • Support NAVWARrelated testing, jamming threat assessments, and degradedenvironment navigation evaluations.

Required Qualifications

  • Working knowledge of Link16 and other tactical data link systems.
  • Proficiency with Wireshark and networking protocols (TCP/IP, UDP, HTTP).
  • Strong understanding of RF transceiver design, propagation modeling, and link budgets.
  • Experience with oscilloscopes, spectrum/network analyzers, logic analyzers, and signal generators.
  • Familiarity with COMSEC handling and Simple Key Loaders (SKL).
  • Experience with MATLAB, or similar modeling/simulation tools.

Desired Additional Experience

  • Familiarity with GNSS/INS systems, Alt-Nav, Kalman filtering, and navigation algorithms.
  • Knowledge of anti-jam techniques, NAVWAR considerations, and jamming threat environments.
  • Familiarity with C++ coding for algorithm development, simulation integration, or hardwareinterface support.

Education / Experience / Clearance Requirements

  • Master's degree in relevant field.
  • 10+ years' experience.
  • Top Secret clearance

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