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Contract Tactical Data Link Jobs (NOW HIRING)

ORA_ON_SITE Description SAIC has an immediate opening for a Tactical Data Link (TDL) technician in Virginia Beach, VA Principal responsibilities include: * Act as a TDL Link-11 and 16 operator and ...

Description SAIC has an immediate opening for a Tactical Data Link (TDL) technician in Virginia Beach, VA Principal responsibilities include: * Act as a TDL Link-11 and 16 operator and technician ...

Our Tactical Data Links (TDL) Test Flight (TGBC) is searching for an experienced data link professional and/or test engineer to join the United States Air Force's premier TDL Developmental Test (DT ...

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Contract Tactical Data Link information

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$56

$81

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

As of Aug 16, 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:

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 (TDL) Test & Evaluation Analyst - Senior with Security Clearance

Agile Defense

Fort Huachuca, AZ โ€ข On-site

Other

Posted 19 days ago


Job description

About Agile Defense At Agile Defense we know that action defines the outcome and new challenges require new solutions. Thatโ€™s why we always look to the future and embrace change with an unmovable spirit and the courage to build for what comes next. Our vision is to bring adaptive innovation to support our nation's most important missions through the seamless integration of advanced technologies, elite minds, and unparalleled agilityโ€”leveraging a foundation of speed, flexibility, and ingenuity to strengthen and protect our nationโ€™s vital interests. Requisition #: 1609 Job Title: Tactical Data link (TDL) Test & Evaluation Analyst - Senior Location: Fort Huachuca, AZ Clearance Level: Secret, Must Have Clearance to Start Required Certification(s): Requires at least 1 certification in area of specialization. Examples include Sec+/SecX, Certified Scrum Master, ITIL4/ITIL5, CTEP. Job Description Joint Interoperability Test Command (JITC) Test Evaluation and Certification II Services (TEC II) contract provides technical solutions for the DOD in support of Test and Evaluation (T&E) services and T&E enabling services. JITCโ€™s service requirements are categorized in the following areas: T&E Performance Requirements, T&E Capability Management Requirements, T&E Capability Requirements, and Overarching Contract and Task Order (TO) Requirements. TEC Services are provided to DoD Combatant Commanders/Services/Agencies, federal and state agencies, coalition partners, and commercial entities to aid in the design, development, acquisition, integration, deployment, operational use, and sustainment of new and enhanced Information Technology/National Security System capabilities. Job Duties & Responsibilities JITCโ€™s Tactical Data Link (TDL) specialists test TDL interfaces for message set standards compliance and interoperability certification. The selected candidate will utilize applicable Military Standards (MIL-STD) and North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) Standardization Agreements (STANAG) to update Master Test Procedures (MTPs) in the execution, analysis, and reporting of standards compliance and interoperability test events. TDL MIL-STDs and STANAGs include: 3011 Joint Range Extension, 6011/5511 Link 11, 6016/5516 Link 16, 6017 Variable Message Format, 6018 Integrated Broadcast Service Common Message Format, 6020 Data Forwarding, 6022/5522 Link 22, 6040 US Message Text Format, 6090 Cursor on Target, and 5602 Standard Interface for Multiple Platform Link Evaluation. Duties include: * Review MIL-STD Interface Change Proposals (ICPs) * Update Master Test Procedures (MTP) to include previous ICP approved changes. * Research systems under test (SUT) data link bit level implementation and determine the MIL- STD functional areas that need to be tested. * Develop standards conformance test procedures using system implementation(s) to evaluate the system requirements. * Develop interoperability test procedures using the TDL MTP to evaluate information exchange requirements derived from system Net Ready Key Performance Parameters and traceability matrix. * Conduct Standards Conformance and interoperability tests and post-test analysis as required using analysis tools such as industry standard test tools.   * Write preliminary trouble reports in accordance with approved templates. * Prepare and deliver test reports in accordance with approved templates. Education and Background * Requires a Masterโ€™s degree; or a Bachelorโ€™s degree with at least 6 years of experience; or 10 years of experience. * One year of experience can be substituted by 15 semester hours completed towards a Masterโ€™s degree. The degree must be in a relevant technical curriculum and experience must be related to the job duties. * Additional certifications in the area of specialization may be substituted for experience but varies by certification. Years of Experience * Masters = N/A. * Bachelor's = 6 years.  * No undergrad degree = 10 years. Required Skills * Demonstrated experience executing TDL standards conformance test events to include but not limited to MIL-STDs 6011, 6016, 6020, and 6022 from initial test planning through delivery of the final test report. * Excellent communications skills, including verbal, written and presentation skills with the ability to write complex software developer-level issues in a clear, concise, and easily understood manner. * Familiar with Department of War (DoW) operations and environment, and comfortable with RF/IT systems and software. * Familiar with and actively using the Microsoft Office suite. Preferred Skills * Prior Joint Interface Control Officer (JICO) qualification is desired. * Experience with DoW acquisition developmental/operational testing is desired. * Experience with test tools and operational systems such as Joint Analysis Net-centric Evaluation Testing Toolkit (JANETT), Tactical Data Link Integration Exerciser (TIGER), Air Defense Systems Integrator (ADSI), Battlefield Operations Support System (BOSS), Network, System Integration and Test Environment (NSITE), Automated Test Case Generator (ATC-Gen), and Small Tactical Terminal (STT). * Attention to detail creating, reviewing and editing requirements, specifications, and recommendations related to proposed solutions. * Ability to collaborate effectively with senior management, cross-functional teams, internal/external customers, and end-users. Working Conditions Environmental Conditions * Contractor site with 0%-10% travel possible. Possible off-hours work to support releases and outages. General office environment. Work is generally sedentary in nature but may require standing and walking for up to 10% of the time. The working environment is generally favorable. Work is generally performed within an office environment, with standard office equipment available. Strength Demands * Sedentary โ€“ 10 lbs. Maximum lifting, occasional lift/carry of small articles.  Some occasional walking or standing may be required.   Jobs are sedentary if walking and standing are required only occasionally, and all other sedentary criteria are met. Physical Requirements * Stand or Sit; Walk; Repetitive Motion; Use Hands / Fingers to Handle or Feel; Stoop, Kneel, Crouch, or Crawl; See; Push or Pull; Climb (stairs, ladders) or Balance (ascend / descend, work atop, traverse). Our Core Values Employees of Agile Defense are our number one priority, and the importance we place on our culture here is fundamental. Our culture is alive and evolving, but it always stays true to its roots. Here, you are valued as a family member, and we believe that we can accomplish great things together. Agile Defense has been highly successful in the past few years due to our employees and the culture we create together.  What makes us Agile? We call it the 6Hs, the values that define our culture and guide everything we do. Together, these values infuse vibrancy, integrity, and a tireless work ethic into advancing the most important national security and critical civilian missions. It's how we show up every day. It's who we are. * Happy - Be Infectious. Happiness multiplies and creates a positive and connected environment where motivation and satisfaction have an outsized effect on everything we do. * Helpful - Be Supportive. Being helpful is the foundation of teamwork, resulting in a supportive atmosphere where collaboration flourishes, and collective success is celebrated. * Honest - Be Trustworthy. Honesty serves as our compass, ensuring transparent communication and ethical conduct, essential to who we are and the complex domains we support. * Humble - Be Grounded. Success is not achieved alone, humility ensures a culture of mutual respect, encouraging open communication, and a willingness to learn from one another and take on any task. * Hungry - Be Eager. Our hunger for excellence drives an insatiable appetite for innovation and continuous improvement, propelling us forward in the face of new and unprecedented challenges. * Hustle - Be Driven. Hustle is reflected in our relentless work ethic, where we are each committed to going above and beyond to advance the mission and achieve success. Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us. apply for this job Agile Defense Home Page
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