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Link 16 Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

Tactical Data Link Engineer

Niceville, FL ยท On-site

$106K - $127K/yr

Operate and analyze Link-16 and similar or related tactical data link systems. * Research, develop and modernize existing TDL HITL emulators to ensure continued relevance and interoperability with ...

Tactical Data Link Test Engineer - Senior

FL ยท On-site

$100K - $131K/yr

Link 16, Joint Range Extension Application Protocols (JREAP) A, B and C, Situational Awareness Data Link (SADL), Variable Message Format (VMF), Multifunction Advanced Data Link (MADL), Tactical ...

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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 Florida?

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Link 16 job openings in Florida as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Tactical Data Link Engineer

Niceville, FL โ€ข On-site

Canvas
11 - 50 employees

$106K - $127K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 21 days ago


Job description

Key Responsibilities
  • 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) architectures, enabling real equipment to interact with virtual platforms.
  • Configure, initialize, and monitor LVC-integrated TDL networks during simulation test events.
  • Troubleshoot hardware/software interfaces, timing, synchronization.
  • Operate and analyze Link-16 and similar or related tactical data link systems.
  • Research, develop and modernize existing TDL HITL emulators to ensure continued relevance and interoperability with emerging, modernized TDL-enabled weapon systems and UAS platforms
  • Build, decode, and evaluate TDL messages and network architectures.
  • Support gateway operations, network initialization, and real-time monitoring during events.
  • Present technical findings and recommend improvements to system designs.
  • Assess proposals, requirements, and system documentation for technical feasibility and proper allocation of navigation/TSPI requirements.
  • Support NAVWAR-related testing, jamming threat assessments, and degraded-environment navigation evaluations.

Required Qualifications
  • Working knowledge of Link-16 and other tactical data link systems.
  • Proficiency with Wireshark and networking protocols (TCP/IP, UDP, HTTP).
  • Strong understanding of RF transceiver design, propagation modeling, and link budgets.
  • Experience with oscilloscopes, spectrum/network analyzers, logic analyzers, and signal generators.
  • Familiarity with COMSEC handling and Simple Key Loaders (SKL).
  • Experience with MATLAB, or similar modeling/simulation tools.

Desired Additional Experience
  • Familiarity with GNSS/INS systems, Alt-Nav, Kalman filtering, and navigation algorithms.
  • Knowledge of anti-jam techniques, NAVWAR considerations, and jamming threat environments.
  • Familiarity with C++ coding for algorithm development, simulation integration, or hardware-interface support.

Education / Experience / Clearance Requirements
  • Master's degree in relevant field.
  • 10+ years' experience.
  • Top Secret clearance