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Contract Tactical Data Link Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Canvas

Tactical Data Link Engineer

Niceville, FL · On-site

$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 ...

Wood River Federal

$90 - $130/hr

Work Location Camp Pendleton, CA Position Description The Tactical Data Link (TDL) Analyst is responsible for analyzing Link 16 and VMF data to ensure compliance with MIL-STDs, developing test plans ...

SAIC

Tactical Data Link Analyst

Little Rock, AR · On-site

Description SAIC is seeking a skilled and experienced Tactical Data Link Analyst to provide technical advisory, asset management, and integration support to the 19th Airlift Wing. The ideal candidate ...

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Contract Tactical Data Link information

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$16

$56

$81

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

As of Sep 5, 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.

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.

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 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?

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What states have the most Contract Tactical Data Link jobs?

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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 Specialist

Curtiss-Wright

Tewksbury, MA • On-site

$83K - $106K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 20 days ago

Curtiss-Wright rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 36 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

103rd of 499 rated machine equipment manufacturers

Job description

Tactical Data Link Specialist
Here in Tewksbury, Massachusetts, we are looking for a Tactical Data Link Specialist to join us in our Software team. With training provided by our subject matter experts, you will become responsible for the development and execution of detailed, requirements-based software (integration) tests on our Tactical Communications Manager software. Following our training plan, you will have the ability to conduct complex regression tests for advanced, Department of Defense (DoD) tactical communication data link systems.
Your military experience working directly with tactical data link products is invaluable to us in our mission to ensure warfighters in the air and on the ground can now exchange real-time tactical information and share a common operating picture for improved operational coordination, situation awareness and mission effectiveness. We can provide you with the training and skills you need to build a successful career outside of the military whilst continuing to support our warfighters.
Location: Tewksbury, MA
Salary Range: $ 83,800 - 106,000 per year plus bonus
Please note that the salary range information provided is a general guideline only, reflecting a position based in Massachusetts. Criteria such as the candidate's qualifications and relevant experience, the scope of the specific position, as well as market and business considerations will be evaluated when extending an offer.
Benefits
We Take Care of Our People
Paid Time Off I 401K with Employer Match and Profit Sharing I Health and Wellness Benefits I Learning and Development Opportunities I Referral Program I Competitive Pay I Recognition I Employee Stock Purchase Plan I Inclusive & Supportive Culture *
Your Challenge:
  • Analyze detailed software requirements and design documents and develop top level Test Plan/Approach documentation for qualification of new software features/components
  • Based on detailed requirements and design documents and test plan, develops detailed system state and expected system output as test criteria
  • Develop cross reference matrix and maintain traceability of test procedures steps to the specified requirement; Attends and conducts peer reviews for test plan documents and formal test procedures
  • Works independently during qualification cycles by closing assigned problem reports, identifying and reporting new problems, conduction formal qualification, and running assigned regression tests
  • Applies complex test tools such as the PASS 3200, Wireshark, AltaView, CoPilot as required to support testing; reviews TCG requirements, design, acceptance test plan, and acceptance test procedure documents
  • Participates in the development and review of TCG's Engineering documentation Assists with resolution of system issues and problems reported by TCG's customers
  • Assists with duplication and test of Tech Support issues and System Trouble Reports (STRs); may participate in the design (based on customer input) and fabrication of Terminal Housing Cases
  • Must be able to perform function under minimal supervision/ direction
  • Other duties as assigned

What You Bring:
  • Military tactical data link system experience
  • 4-6 years' experience with military data links/ especially Link 16, Link 11, Link 22
  • Ability to work well both independently and as part of a team
  • Ability to focus on and complete multiple tasks with attention to detail and organization
  • Balanced system-level focus along with in-depth analytical ability
  • Must be an effective communicator and a strong collaborator
  • U.S. Citizen (for clearance)
  • BSCS or related education

Who We Are
Our Values
Environmental, Social and Governance
Join the WRIGHT Team!
Tactical Communications Group (TCG) is a world-class leader in delivering Tactical Data Link (TDL) network solutions that allow military operating and training units, government testing organizations and prime defense contractors to quickly achieve better connectivity and capability at the tactical edge. By creating cost effective, integrated tactical communications solutions, warfighters in the air and on the ground can now exchange real-time tactical information and share a common operating picture for improved operational coordination, situation awareness and mission effectiveness.
#LI-YH1
No unsolicited agency submittals please. Agency partners must be invited to participate in a search by our Talent Acquisition Team and have signed terms in place prior to any submittal. Resumes submitted directly to any Curtiss-Wright employee or affiliate will not qualify for fee payment, and therefore become the property of Curtiss-Wright.
Compliance Statement
This position may require exposure to export-controlled information and subject to additional security screening. In the event information provided during the security screening reveals ineligibility to access export-controlled information, any offer of employment may be reconsidered or withdrawn.
Curtiss-Wright is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, ethnicity, color, sexual orientation, gender identity, physical or mental disability, age, ancestry, legally protected medical condition, family care status, marital status, religion, veteran status, national origin, or any other legally protected status. If you require accommodation during the recruitment process, please contact Talent Acquisition.
For US Applicants: EEO is The Law - click here for more information.
If you require accommodation due to a disability at any time during the recruitment and/or assessment process, please contact Talent Acquisition and we will make all reasonable efforts to accommodate your request.

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About Curtiss-Wright

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Curtiss-Wright Actuation Division designs, manufactures and supports electro-mechanical actuation products and systems for use in demanding applications in Aerospace, Defense and Industrial Automation markets. Our market leading solutions help improve the reliability, efficiency and performance of our customers' operations and platforms, as well as reducing their environmental impact with energy efficient electro-mechanical designs and technology. For the Aerospace market, we supply actuation systems for flight control, landing gear, utility and other applications on both commercial and military aircraft. In Ground & Naval Defense markets, we support a wide array of applications ranging from door assist, ramp and hatch actuation, weapons handling systems, radar and launch platform actuation, and robotic (AUV/ROV) actuation. In Industrial Automation, our Exlar® actuators are globally recognized as a leading brand offering high power density, precision and reliability for machine/process applications in automotive, food & beverage, oil & gas, robotics, entertainment and many other industries.

Industry

Computer and electronic product manufacturing

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Davidson, NC, US

Year founded

1929

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