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Link 16 Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

JT4, LLC

Datalinks - Engineer

Edwards, CA · On-site

$110K - $185K/yr

Link 16, Variable Message Format (VMF) and the ability to develop and analyze data link messages (J-series messages, K-series messages). * Ability to read and understand common military data link ...

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Link 16 information

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.

What are popular job titles related to Link 16 jobs in California?

For Link 16 jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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

The top searched job categories for Link 16 jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Link 16 jobs?

Cities in California with the most Link 16 job openings:

Link 16 jobs near you
Infographic showing various Link 16 job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 20% Full Time, and 80% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Engineer Embedded Software - Link 16 with Security Clearance

San Diego, CA • On-site

Artech Information Systems
Recruiting and Staffing Services • 10K+ employees
Learn more about Artech Information Systemsexternal

$75 - $80/hr

Other

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

Title: Link 16 Engineer Embedded Software 3 Duration:12+ months of contract Location: San Diego, CA (Onsite) - Rancho Carmel Site Pay Rate: $75 - $80/Hr on W2 Description: *** is looking for a Link 16 Engineer Embedded Software 3 to support our Software and Digital Technologies department. As a member of the Software and Digital Technologies department, you'll get to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. This position will serve on-site at the Rancho Carmel Site in San Diego, CA. Responsibilities In this role you will you'll get to design, develop, integrate and test software for our end-user customers and businesses, primarily focused on Link-16 and Tactical Datalink software code bases. Specifically, you will be responsible for the design, architecture, development, and administration of embedded and real time systems. You will work with multi-disciplinary teams, such as with Systems Engineering, Digital Engineering, Hardware, and Integration & Test, in an Agile software development environment. You will analyze system capabilities to resolve problems on program intent, output requirements, input data acquisition, programming techniques and controls. Basic Qualifications for Engineer Embedded Software 3 * Bachelor's degree in Computer Engineering or another STEM discipline with 5 years of related experience, or Master's degree with 3 years or a PhD with 1 year of experience * Proficient in C/C++ * Proficient in Object Oriented programming * Proficient in all areas of the formal software lifecycle process from requirements to testing * Experience integrating low-level firmware and software in complex real-time multi-threaded embedded applications * Experience with developing and debugging embedded real-time systems. * Familiarity with Static Analysis and Unit Testing * Experience using Jira/Bitbucket/Git and the Agile software development process * Experience in testing and troubleshooting Link16 waveform in an embedded software environment * Hands-on experience with lab equipment such as Tactical Datalink radios/terminals * Familiarity with Link 16/TACAN Waveform Standard Documents * Familiarity with Common Object Request Broker Architecture (CORBA) * Familiarity with Software Communications Architecture (SCA) * Experience with Software Defined Radios * Must be able to obtain a U.S Government Secret level security clearance * Ability to work full-time onsite at our Rancho Carmel location. Preferred Qualifications for Engineer Embedded Software 3 * Experience with the Avionics Operating System * Experience with Xilinx platforms (Zynq, Ultrascale+, and VERSAL) * Experience with Yocto/Petalinux * Experience with Communication Protocols (I2C, SPI, UART, PCIe, Ethernet) * Experience with TCP/IP and common network configurations * Experience implementing cryptographic mechanisms using dedicated software libraries * Experience with Rust * Familiarity with Xilinx tools (Vitis, Vivado) * Familiarity with HAIPE, OTNK, and/or IKE * Familiarity with Linux kernel driver development/modifications * Familiarity with assembly language * Familiarity with bare metal embedded device drivers * Familiarity with PowerPC architectures and peripherals * Familiarity with IBM tools (Rhapsody, DOORS, Clearcase) * Familiarity with Green Hills AdaMulti * Familiarity with MIL-STD-6016 * Current active Secret or Top-Secret Clearance * Current active SAP clearance * Currently engaged in Networked Information Solutions program portfolio(s)
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About Artech

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Artech is a leading IT staffing and consulting company based in Morristown, NJ, US. Since its foundation in 1992, Artech has mastered in complementing human expertise with technology and business acumen to produce world-class staffing solutions. The company caters to diverse industry sectors, including financial services, healthcare, telecommunication, energy and utilities, supply chain, and retail. It provides IT consulting, project management, professional and staff augmentation, and managed staffing services. Artech's mission is to provide exceptional IT staffing services to its clients by comprehending their business needs and then crafting a customized staffing strategy. Its notable achievement includes being recognized as one of the largest IT staffing companies in the U.S, according to Staffing Industry Analysts (SIA).

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Morristown, NJ, US

Year founded

1992

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