ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Link 16 Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Lynx

Principal Systems Engineer - Link 16

Marietta, GA · On-site

$160 - $200/hr

Job Title: Principal Systems Engineer - Link 16 Salary Range: $160,000 - $200,000 + Bonus Eligible Company Overview Founded in 2004 with locations in Atlanta, GA, Fort Worth, TX, Denver, CO ...

SAIC

Tactical Data Link Analyst

Little Rock, AR · On-site

Support also includes Link 16 and multi-TDL network planning, configuration, coordination, deconfliction, training, test and exercise execution, and mission debrief activities to improve ...

SAIC

Tactical Data Link Analyst

Little Rock, AR

The ideal candidate will have demonstrated experience in Link 16 and multi-TDL network operations, systems integration, operational planning, and TDL training support. The selected candidate will ...

SAIC

Tactical Data Link Analyst

Little Rock, AR · On-site

Support also includes Link 16 and multi-TDL network planning, configuration, coordination, deconfliction, training, test and exercise execution, and mission debrief activities to improve ...

JT4

DLO - Data Link Operator

North Las Vegas, NV · On-site

JOB SUMMARY - ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS/DUTIES Perform operations on assigned Joint Data Network (JDN) / Link-16 equipment. Perform a variety of assignments involving technology applications involved in ...

Wood River Federal

$90 - $130/hr

MIL-STD-6016 (Link 16), MIL-STD-3011 (JREAP), MIL-STD-6017 (VMF), and MIL-STD-6020 (Data Forwarding). * Demonstrated understanding and application of the Data Extraction and Reduction Guide (DERG)

New

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsLink 16 Jobs

Link 16 information

See salary details

$20

$52

$72

How much do link 16 jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for link 16 in the United States is $52.85, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $35.82 and $67.31 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is Link 16?

Link 16 is a military tactical data link network used by NATO and allied forces to securely exchange real-time situational awareness information, such as position, identification, and command and control data. It enables interoperability between different branches of the military, allowing aircraft, ships, and ground units to coordinate missions more effectively. The system uses encrypted, jam-resistant radio signals to ensure secure communications even in contested environments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Link 16 specialist?

To thrive as a Link 16 Specialist, you need a solid understanding of tactical data links, military communications protocols, and often a background in electronics, IT, or a related technical field. Familiarity with Link 16 terminals, network planning tools, encryption devices, and relevant certifications like CompTIA Security+ or military-specific training is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help specialists troubleshoot issues and work collaboratively with military teams. These skills ensure secure, reliable, and efficient information exchange critical for mission success in defense operations.

What are the main challenges faced by Link 16 network operators, and how can they be addressed?

Link 16 network operators often face challenges such as managing secure, real-time data exchanges among multiple platforms, maintaining interoperability between different military systems, and ensuring communication reliability in contested environments. To address these challenges, operators typically undergo specialized training in Link 16 protocols and troubleshooting, work closely with system engineers and mission planners, and stay updated with evolving cybersecurity standards. Collaborative exercises and ongoing professional development are essential to maintain proficiency and adapt to new technologies or mission requirements.

What is the difference between Link 16 vs Radio Frequency (RF) Communications Specialist?

AspectLink 16Radio Frequency (RF) Communications Specialist
CredentialsMilitary certifications, security clearancesFCC licenses, technical certifications
Work EnvironmentMilitary, defense contractors, command centersMilitary, telecommunications, defense industry
UsageSecure data exchange in military operationsOperate, maintain, and troubleshoot RF communication systems

While Link 16 is a specific secure military data link system used for real-time communication among defense units, a Radio Frequency (RF) Communications Specialist focuses on managing and maintaining RF communication equipment across various military and civilian sectors. Both roles require technical knowledge of radio systems, but Link 16 specialists are specialized in a particular secure network, whereas RF specialists have broader communication system expertise.

More about Link 16 jobs

What cities are hiring for Link 16 jobs?

Cities with the most Link 16 job openings:

What states have the most Link 16 jobs?

States with the most job openings for Link 16 jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Link 16 jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Link 16 jobs are:

Link 16 jobs near you
Infographic showing various Link 16 job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 28% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $109,920 per year, or $52.8 per hour.

Principal Systems Engineer - Link 16

Lynx

Marietta, GA • On-site

$160 - $200/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Principal Systems Engineer - Link 16 Salary Range: $160,000 - $200,000 + Bonus Eligible Company Overview

Founded in 2004 with locations in Atlanta, GA, Fort Worth, TX, Denver, CO, & Huntsville, AL,Thompson Software Solutions (TSS) is a mission-drivenaerospace anddefense software and systems engineering company supporting the U.S. military, defense primes, and commercial space partners. We specialize in the development, integration, test, and deployment of safety & mission-critical software systems that power next-generationaircraft, defense platforms, and space technologies. Our team understands what it takes to modernize complex embedded systems whilemaintainingthe rigor, compliance, and reliabilityrequiredfor mission and safety-critical environments.

As a defense-focused company of highly skilled and dedicated engineers, we take pride in solving complex technical challenges that directlyimpactnational security and operational readiness. We partner closely with customers across the military aviation and space domains to deliver resilient, future-ready solutions with portability, sustainability, and long-term mission success in mind.

Description

We are seeking a Principal Systems Engineer to provide technical leadership for the development, integration, and verification of a MIDS-JTRS block upgrade program. This individual will lead the systems engineering effort across the full product lifecycle, including requirements development, system architecture, interface definition, design, integration, verification, and customer acceptance.

The ideal candidate has deep expertise in Link 16 tactical data link systems, MIDS-JTRS terminals, and complex defense communication systems. This role requires close collaboration with software and hardware teams while serving as a technical leader for the effort.

Basic Requirements
  • Bachelor's degree in Systems Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or a related technical discipline.
  • 10+ years of systems engineering experience supporting complex DoD communications, mission systems, or avionics programs.
  • Deep experience with Link 16 tactical data links and MIDS-JTRS terminals.
  • Experience supporting MIDS-JTRS Block Upgrade or other tactical data link modernization efforts.
  • Demonstrated experience developing, allocating, and managing system and subsystem requirements, including requirements traceability and verification.
  • Experience authoring system specifications, Interface Control Documents (ICDs), system design documentation, and verification documentation.
  • Strong understanding of Link 16 architectures, tactical message standards, network participation groups (NPGs), and terminal operation.
  • Experience leading system integration, verification, validation, and qualification testing.
  • Experience developing and executing system-level, integration, and Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL) test procedures.
  • Demonstrated ability to troubleshoot complex hardware/software integration issues and perform root cause analysis.Experience supporting major engineering reviews including SRR, PDR, CDR, TRR, and customer acceptance events.
  • Strong technical leadership skills with experience leading cross-functional engineering teams.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to obtain a security clearance
Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience leading a MIDS-JTRS upgrade program or other Link 16 modernization program.
  • Experience with MIL-STD-6016, STANAG 5516, J-series messages, and tactical data link protocols.
  • Experience with Software Communications Architecture (SCA) and Joint Tactical Radio System (JTRS) technologies.
  • Experience using IBM DOORS for requirements management.Experience supporting airborne mission systems, C4ISR, or tactical communications programs.
  • Experience working in Agile development environments.
  • Experience using Atlassian tools including Jira, Confluence, and Bitbucket.
  • Experience supporting formal customer qualification, certification, and fielding activities.
Sound Exciting? We have very robust benefits including:
  • Low-cost Medical / Dental / Vision coverage options
  • 401K with generous employer match
  • Responsible Paid Time Off + 11 Paid Holidays
  • Remote work opportunities based on role
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Career growth and professional development opportunities

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.

#J-18808-Ljbffr

Apply