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Senior Tactical Data Link Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Astrion

Data Link Test Engineer Mid-Level

FL · On-site

Our Tactical Data Links (TDL) Test Flight (TGBC) is searching for an experienced data link ... Develop and present briefings to test community, program office and senior-level personnel on ...

General Atomics

Engineer V

Poway, CA · On-site

$105K - $189K/yr

The Senior Mission Systems Architect will be responsible for the design and development of next ... Must have experience in the design and implementation of tactical data link equipment and ...

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Senior Tactical Data Link information

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$25K

$80.3K

$163.5K

How much do senior tactical data link jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior tactical data link in the United States is $80,287.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,500.00 and $103,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the typical collaboration points between a senior tactical data link specialist and other defense operations teams?

A Senior Tactical Data Link specialist often works closely with cross-functional teams such as systems engineers, network administrators, and military operations personnel. Collaboration typically involves integrating and troubleshooting data link systems, ensuring secure and reliable communication channels, and providing technical guidance during mission planning and execution. Effective teamwork is essential, as the role frequently requires coordinating training, addressing interoperability challenges, and supporting real-time operations to maintain mission readiness and system performance.

What is a senior tactical data link?

Senior Tactical Data Link specialists are experienced professionals responsible for managing and integrating tactical data link systems, such as Link 16, in military operations. They oversee the planning, configuration, operation, and troubleshooting of secure communication networks that enable real-time data sharing between various platforms like aircraft, ships, and ground forces. Their role is crucial for ensuring situational awareness and mission effectiveness by maintaining reliable and secure digital communications during operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a senior tactical data link?

To thrive as a Senior Tactical Data Link, you need expertise in military communications, data link operations (such as Link 16), and a solid background in information technology or electronics, often supported by relevant military training or a technical degree. Familiarity with tactical data link systems, network management tools, and certifications like CompTIA Security+ or equivalent are typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are essential soft skills for coordinating with diverse teams and troubleshooting complex systems. These competencies are crucial for ensuring secure, reliable, and interoperable communications in mission-critical military environments.

What is the difference between Senior Tactical Data Link vs Tactical Data Link Specialist?

AspectSenior Tactical Data LinkTactical Data Link Specialist
CredentialsSecurity clearances, military or defense certificationsSimilar certifications, often with specialized training
Work EnvironmentMilitary, defense contractors, government agenciesDefense industry, military support roles
Employer & Industry UsagePrimarily military and defense sectorsDefense contractors, military operations
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding senior roles and responsibilitiesEntry to mid-level roles, technical expertise

The main difference is that a Senior Tactical Data Link typically involves leadership, strategic planning, and oversight responsibilities, whereas a Tactical Data Link Specialist focuses on technical implementation and support. Both roles require relevant certifications and work within defense environments, but the senior position emphasizes experience and management, while the specialist role emphasizes technical skills.

What cities are hiring for Senior Tactical Data Link jobs? Cities with the most Senior Tactical Data Link job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Tactical Data Link jobs? The most popular types of Tactical Data Link jobs are:
What states have the most Senior Tactical Data Link jobs? States with the most job openings for Senior Tactical Data Link jobs include:
Senior Tactical Data Link jobs near you

Tactical Data Link (TDL) Technician

SAIC

Virginia Beach, VA • On-site

$40K - $80K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago

SAIC rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 79 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

78th of 223 rated it services

Job description

Job Description
Description
SAIC has an immediate opening for a Tactical Data Link (TDL) technician in Virginia Beach, VA
Principal responsibilities include:
  • Act as a TDL Link-11 and 16 operator and technician during test events. Analyze Link messages through MLST-3 server interacting with MIDS, STT and/or DTSK-11.
  • Support test efforts with AEGIS Modernization Team and Systems Operations Verification Testing at various shipyards.
  • Work with assigned government TDL lead to understand Link test objectives and obtain necessary keymat and OPTASK parameters
  • Pre-check and groom of Link equipment prior to testing
  • Perform Link-11 and Link-16 operations during test events
  • Troubleshoot with shipboard personnel and other land-based test sites if problems arise during operations; and provide reports to government TDL lead with findings and notes.
Candidate must be have high level of competency with MLST-3 servers to investigate any complications that may arise during testing. Candidate must have a high level of competency upgrading, installing, and configuring application software and computer hardware. Working knowledge of Link-11 and Link-16 message strings.
The ability to evaluate data needed for testing is essential for this role. This position will also be responsible for Identification Friend or Foe (IFF) cryptographic load testing with the commercial Lear jets.
Qualifications
Minimum:
  • Security clearance required: SECRET (minimum).
  • A BS and 0 years of experience or a HS and minimum of 6 years working with TDL systems Experience with operating Link-11 and 16 TDL equipment.
  • Demonstrated ability to work in a complex Test and Evaluation (T&E) environment within the Department of Defense (NAVSEA, NAVAIR, FMS, etc.)
  • Computer literacy (MS Office), technical writing proficiency, and excellent oral presentation skills.
  • Ability to traverse from aircraft and ships at-sea, up and down shipboard ladders/decks.
  • Demonstrated experience briefing large contingents of active duty and civilian personnel.
  • Travel: 25 - 50% minimum.
  • Must be able to mutli-person lift heavy objects in excess of 50 pounds.
Desired:
  • Electronics Technician capable of maintaining and repairing complex computer and cryptographic systems.
  • Experience with loading keymat to TDL equipment.
  • Experience with developing and working from an OPTASK for Link operations.

Target salary range: $40,001 - $80,000. The estimate displayed represents the typical salary range for this position based on experience and other factors.
Overview
SAIC accepts applications on an ongoing basis and there is no deadline.
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.

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