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Link 16 Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Provide engineering and Tactical Data Link (LINK 16, SADL) support. * Setup and operate equipment used to support the fielding and training of Tactical Data Links. * Operate Tactical Radios to ...

Provide engineering and Tactical Data Link (LINK 16, SADL) support. * Setup and operate equipment used to support the fielding and training of Tactical Data Links. * Operate Tactical Radios to ...

Provide engineering and Tactical Data Link (LINK 16, SADL) support. * Setup and operate equipment used to support the fielding and training of Tactical Data Links. * Operate Tactical Radios to ...

$140K - $155K/yr

Support defining and documenting specifications for network-enabled weapon systems to ensure Link 16 J11.X message interoperability * Interface with DoD and non-DoD federal agencies to ensure the ...

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Link 16 information

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$20

$52

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How much do link 16 jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 6, 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Link 16 Specialist, and why are they important?

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 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.
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:
Infographic showing various Link 16 job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% Internship, 23% Full Time, 71% Part Time, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $109,920 per year, or $52.8 per hour.
Tech Support Specialist C4I-Tactical Data Link (Engineer Systems 2)

Tech Support Specialist C4I-Tactical Data Link (Engineer Systems 2)

Huntington Ingalls Industries

Virginia Beach, VA โ€ข On-site

$68K - $97K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 hours ago


Job description

Requisition Number: 27534
Required Travel: 0 - 10%
Employment Type: Full Time/Salaried/Exempt
Anticipated Salary Range: $68,050.00 - $97,000.00
Security Clearance: Secret
Level of Experience: Mid
This opportunity resides with Global Security (GS). Mission Technologies' Global Security (GS) group comprises live, virtual, constructive (LVC) solutions; fleet sustainment; nuclear and environmental; and Australia business.
As a trusted partner to our military customers, HII designs, develops and operates the largest LVC enterprise that prepares warfighters for cross-domain battle. With advanced technologies to enable mission readiness, HII understands that preparation requires full coordination-not readiness in piece-parts.
For more than 40 years, the U.S. Navy has entrusted HII to maintain and modernize the vast majority of its fleet. With a holistic approach to life-cycle maritime defense systems-from small watercraft to submarines, surface combatants and aircraft carriers-HII ensures a high state of readiness.
HII supports the Department of Energy's national security mission through the management and operation of its sites, as well as the safe cleanup of legacy waste across the country. HII meets clients' toughest nuclear and environmental challenges.
Meet HII's Mission Technologies Division
Our team of more than 7,000 professionals worldwide delivers all-domain expertise and advanced technologies in service of mission partners across the globe. Mission Technologies is leading the next evolution of national defense - the data evolution - by accelerating a breadth of national security solutions for government and commercial customers. Our capabilities range from C5ISR, AI and Big Data, cyber operations and synthetic training environments to fleet sustainment, environmental remediation and the largest family of unmanned underwater vehicles in every class. Find the role that's right for you. Apply today. We look forward to meeting you.
To learn more about Mission Technologies, click here for a short video: https://vimeo.com/732533072
Job Description
Mission Technologies, a division of Huntington Ingalls Industries, is searching for a qualified candidate to fill the role of Technical Support Specialist - C4I. The position works onsite Chamberlain Hall, Dam Neck Annex, Virginia Beach, Va. supporting Maritime Operation Center - Exercise Support Team (MOC-EST) and Naval Surface Warfare Center- Corona (NSWC-Corona) in providing Navy LVC training throughout all assigned Areas of Responsibility (AORs). This position acts as the C4I Systems Tactical Data Link (TDL) Engineer and provides TDL operations expertise to all training (FST) events for fleet and task force staff. The Specialist will be required to perform Operations on all NSWC TDL systems and Maintenance as required. They will interface with outside agencies to provide TDL system connectivity between major commands and will assist with the testing and integration of new Tactical Data Link technologies. Candidates must be able to analyze and troubleshoot at the system level to detect and resolve problems and will require interaction with Military, Government and Contractor Leadership. Communication skills are required. The position requires flexibility to work non-standard work hours and work weeks of more than 40 hours to meet business, customer, and contractual requirements.
Essential Job Responsibilities
  • Provide knowledge and expertise in operating Tactical Data Link (TDL) systems.
  • Provide knowledge of Link 16 protocols, waveforms, and network architectures.
  • Provide Onsite and remote troubleshooting support for Tactical Data Link (TDL) systems across NCTE Enterprise
  • Prepare reports and briefs as required.

Minimum Qualifications
  • High School Diploma or equivalent and 6 years relevant experience, or 2 years relevant experience with Bachelor in related field, or 0 years relevant experience with Masters in related field.
  • Strong background in Tactical Data Link (TDL) systems.
  • COMPTIA Security+ certification within 90 days.
  • Experience working with Link 16.
  • Experience with TDL protocols.
  • Understanding of TDL topology and C4I architectures.
  • Must have technical leadership ability. During LVC event execution, must be able to address technical issues and engage engineers from the appropriate domains to resolve.
  • Must have excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Active Secret Clearance and the ability to obtain.

Preferred Requirements
  • Experience with Tactical Data Analysis Connectivity System (TDACS), Gateway Manager (GWM, and Link Management and Monitoring Tool (LMMT)
  • Familiarity with Joint Semi-Automated Forces/Joint Simulated Bus (JSAF/JBUS).
  • DIS Experience with Model and Simulation Systems to include Joint Live Virtual Constructive (JLVC) and JSAF.
  • Experience working with Navy training systems and command structure.

Physical Requirements
Office, industrial, or shipboard environment. Capable of climbing ladders and tolerating confined spaces and extreme temperature variances. Lifting and moving materials may be required.
HII is more than a job - it's an opportunity to build a new future. We offer competitive benefits such as best-in-class medical, dental and vision plan choices; wellness resources; employee assistance programs; Savings Plan Options (401(k)); financial planning tools, life insurance; employee discounts; paid holidays and paid time off; tuition reimbursement; as well as early childhood and post-secondary education scholarships. Bonus/other non-recurrent compensation is occasionally offered for qualified positions, and if applicable to this role will be addressed by the recruiter at the screening phase of application.
Why HII
We build the world's most powerful, survivable naval ships and defense technology solutions that safeguard our seas, sky, land, space and cyber. Our workforce includes skilled tradespeople; artificial intelligence, machine learning (AI/ML) experts; engineers; technologists; scientists; logistics experts; and business administration professionals.
Recognized as one of America's top large company employers, we are a values and ethics driven organization that puts people's safety and well-being first. Regardless of your role or where you serve, at HII, you'll find a supportive and welcoming environment, competitive benefits, and valuable educational and training programs for continual career growth at every stage of your career.
Together we are working to ensure a future where everyone can be free and thrive.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, physical or mental disability, age, or veteran status or any other basis protected by federal, state, or local law.
Do You Need Assistance?
If you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment process, please send an e-mail to buildyourcareer@hii-co.com and let us know the nature of your request and your contact information. Reasonable accommodations are considered on a case-by-case basis. Please note that only those inquiries concerning a request for reasonable accommodation will be responded to from this email address. Additionally, you may also call 1-844-849-8463 for assistance. Press #3 for HII Mission Technologies.