ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Data Communication Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SAIC

Senior Radio Communication Engineer

Hampton, VA · On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

ORA_ON_SITE Description SAIC is seeking a highly skilled Senior Communications Engineer to join our ... data, and minimize mission downtime. Streamline technology integration by serving as a primary ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsData Communication Engineer Jobs

Data Communication Engineer information

See salary details

$99K

$131.1K

$172.5K

How much do data communication engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for data communication engineer in the United States is $131,125.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $108,500.00 and $160,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior data communication engineers with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and expertise in network infrastructure, cybersecurity, or telecommunications can reach salaries of $500,000 or more, especially in high-demand industries or executive roles. Such compensation often includes bonuses, stock options, or other incentives and typically requires leadership responsibilities and specialized technical skills.

What does a datacom engineer do?

A data communication engineer designs, implements, and maintains systems that transmit data across networks, such as LANs, WANs, and the internet. They work with networking hardware, protocols, and security measures to ensure reliable and efficient data transfer, often using tools like routers, switches, and network analyzers. Strong knowledge of networking standards and certifications like Cisco CCNA are common in this role.

What is the difference between Data Communication Engineer vs Network Engineer?

AspectData Communication EngineerNetwork Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or related fields; certifications like CCNA, CCNPBachelor's in Computer Science, Information Technology, or related; certifications like CCNA, CompTIA Network+
Work EnvironmentDesigning, implementing, and maintaining data communication systems, often in telecom or enterprise settingsConfiguring, managing, and troubleshooting network infrastructure in various organizations
Industry UsageTelecommunications, data centers, enterprise networksIT firms, service providers, corporate IT departments

While both roles focus on network systems, Data Communication Engineers specialize in data transmission technologies and protocols, whereas Network Engineers focus on overall network infrastructure management. Understanding these distinctions helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior data communication engineers, network architects, and specialized cybersecurity engineers can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and leadership roles. High salaries are often associated with working in large organizations, managing complex systems, or consulting in high-demand industries.

What are Data Communication Engineers?

Data Communication Engineers are professionals who design, implement, and maintain systems that allow data to be transmitted efficiently and securely between computers, servers, and other network devices. They work with a range of technologies including routers, switches, firewalls, and network protocols to ensure seamless communication within and between organizations. Their role often involves troubleshooting network issues, optimizing network performance, and ensuring the integrity and security of data transmission.

What are some of the typical challenges Data Communication Engineers face when working on large-scale network deployments?

Data Communication Engineers often encounter challenges such as managing network scalability, ensuring high availability, and minimizing downtime during large-scale deployments. Coordinating with cross-functional teams to address compatibility issues and integrating new technologies with legacy systems are also common hurdles. Additionally, maintaining security while optimizing network performance requires careful planning and ongoing monitoring, making adaptability and problem-solving key skills in this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Data Communication Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Data Communication Engineer, you need a solid understanding of networking principles, protocols (such as TCP/IP), and a degree in computer science, information technology, or a related field. Familiarity with network hardware, routing and switching equipment, network management tools, and certifications like Cisco CCNA/CCNP are typically required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help engineers troubleshoot issues and collaborate with teams. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring reliable, secure, and efficient data transmission within organizational networks.

What is a data communications engineer?

A data communications engineer designs, implements, and maintains systems that transmit data across networks, including wired and wireless communication channels. They work with networking protocols, hardware, and software to ensure reliable data transfer and security, often using tools like routers, switches, and network analyzers. This role typically requires knowledge of network architecture, troubleshooting skills, and relevant certifications such as Cisco CCNA or CompTIA Network+.
More about Data Communication Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Data Communication Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Data Communication Engineer job openings:
What job categories do people searching Data Communication Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Data Communication Engineer jobs are:
Data Communication Engineer jobs near you
Senior Radio Communication Engineer

Senior Radio Communication Engineer

Science Applications International Corporation

Hampton, VA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 28 days ago

SAIC rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 79 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

68th of 210 rated it services

Job description


SAIC is seeking a highly skilled Senior Communications Engineer to join our team in support of the Air Operations Center Weapons System (AOC WS) Falconer Program. Located at the USAF customer site in Hampton, VA, this critical role reports directly to the Fielding, Logistics, and Site Support Team (FLSST) IPT Lead.
In this role, you will apply your advanced expertise in Radio Frequency (RF) systems, configuration management, and tactical datalinks to install, modernize, and sustain the operational AOC baseline. Serving as a key representative of SAIC and the Falconer Program, you will operate with a high degree of autonomy, interfacing face-to-face with government customers and associate contractors to drive mission success.
Please note: This position requires readiness for extensive global travel to various AOC sites.
Key Responsibilities:
• System Sustainment & Upgrades: Drive the day-to-day sustainment and major modernization of the fielded AOC RF and Datalink baseline. Perform advanced troubleshooting on complex radio networks to rapidly diagnose and resolve system-level issues.
• Site Migration & Integration: Mitigate operational risks when guiding AOC sites through transitions between fielded baselines. Help site personnel configure systems, apply critical security patches, tune applications, migrate data, and minimize mission downtime. Streamline technology integration by serving as a primary technical liaison with select technology providers.
• Documentation & Configuration Management (CM): Author, track, and close engineering action items within Fielding Management Plans (FMP) and Site-Specific Engineering Plans (SSEP). Document site variances for the CM process and refine technical diagrams, installation guides, and verification/validation instructions.
• Collaboration & Reporting: Represent the program in Technical Exchange Meetings (TEMs), Project Coordinator (PC) engineering and integration meetings, and SPO fielding events. Lead and support rigorous Verification and Validation (V&V) Assessments as required.
• Process Improvement: Partner with key stakeholders to define and execute achievable, site-specific objectives. Track, analyze, and share performance metrics and lessons learned across the team to optimize future global deployments.
Qualifications
Required Qualifications:
• Bachelor's degree with 7+ years of relevant experience, OR a Master's degree with 5+ years of relevant experience. (Note: Equivalent military experience, specialized technical training, or certifications may be considered in lieu of a degree).
• Active DoD Secret security clearance with verified eligibility for SCI.
• Current DoD 8570 IAT Level II Certification (e.g., CompTIA Security+ CE or higher).
• Proven operational experience within military mission management or Command & Control (C2) domains.
• Strong familiarity with military RF communications, tactical datalink equipment setup, and field operations (e.g., Link-16, UHF/VHF Waveforms, LMMT, JRE, SPIDR).
4+ years of hands-on experience with at least four of the following hardware/software categories:
• Radios & Waveforms: AN/PRC-117G TACSAT, High Frequency (HF) Radio (URG-III/IV, PRC-160, ARC-260, Flex Radio), SATURN Waveform, High-Performance Waveform (HPW).
• Tactical Datalinks: Link-16, Link-11, Link-22, Joint Range Extension (JRE), Joint Air Defense System Integrator (JADSI), Link Monitoring Management Tool (LMMT), Air Force Tactical Receive System (AFTRS).
• Networking & Routing: Cisco Catalyst Switches (9300 series), Radio Distribution System (RDS) / WAVE configurations.
• Infrastructure & Cabling: Antenna installations (Satellite, LOS, HF, FORAX), Global Broadcast System (GBS), GPS receivers/time servers, Lightning Protection (air terminals/RF surge suppressors).
• Installation: Precision termination of Coaxial, CAT-5/6, and fiber optic cabling; RF Infrastructure setup (NEMA enclosures, Demarks, Cable Management).
About Us
SAIC® is a premier mission integrator focused on advancing the power of technology and innovation to serve and protect our world. Our robust portfolio of offerings across the defense, space, intelligence, and civilian markets includes secure high-end solutions in mission IT, enterprise IT, engineering services, and professional services. We integrate emerging technology, rapidly and securely, into mission critical operations that modernize and enable critical national imperatives.
We are approximately 23,000 strong; driven by mission, united by purpose, and inspired by opportunities. SAIC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Headquartered in Reston, Virginia, SAIC has annual revenues of approximately $7.3 billion. For more information, visit saic.com. For ongoing news, please visit our newsroom.

What SAIC employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply