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Tactical Data Link Analyst Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Description SAIC is seeking a skilled and experienced Tactical Data Link Analyst to provide technical advisory, asset management, and integration support to the 19th Airlift Wing. The ideal candidate ...

ORA_ON_SITE Description SAIC is seeking a skilled and experienced Tactical Data Link Analyst to provide technical advisory, asset management, and integration support to the 19th Airlift Wing. The ...

ORA_ON_SITE Description SAIC is seeking a skilled and experienced Tactical Data Link Analyst to provide technical advisory, asset management, and integration support to the 19th Airlift Wing. The ...

$90 - $130/hr

Work Location Camp Pendleton, CA Position Description The Tactical Data Link (TDL) Analyst is responsible for analyzing Link 16 and VMF data to ensure compliance with MIL-STDs, developing test plans ...

Tactical Data Link Specialist Here in Tewksbury, Massachusetts, we are looking for a Tactical Data ... Analyze detailed software requirements and design documents and develop top level Test Plan ...

Tactical Data Link Specialist Here in Tewksbury, Massachusetts, we are looking for a Tactical Data ... Analyze detailed software requirements and design documents and develop top level Test Plan ...

Tactical Data Link Engineer

Niceville, FL

$106K - $127K/yr

Operate and analyze Link16 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 Engineer

Niceville, FL · 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 ...

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

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for tactical data link analyst in the United States is $82,640.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $62,500.00 and $97,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a tactical data link analyst?

A Tactical Data Link (TDL) Analyst is responsible for managing, analyzing, and troubleshooting military communication networks that use tactical data links, such as Link 16, Link 11, and SADL. They ensure secure and efficient data exchange between military assets, including aircraft, ships, and ground units, to enhance situational awareness and mission success. Their role involves configuring networks, interpreting data transmissions, and identifying and resolving interoperability issues. TDL Analysts often work alongside military personnel, defense contractors, and system engineers to optimize communication reliability in real-time operations. This position requires expertise in military communications protocols, network security, and operational procedures.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a tactical data link analyst?

As a Tactical Data Link Analyst, your daily tasks may include monitoring and maintaining tactical data link systems, troubleshooting connection issues, and validating accurate information flow across networks used by military teams. You will often review real-time data transmissions, generate system performance reports, and coordinate with operators and IT personnel to support mission requirements. Analysts also contribute to training exercises, ensuring all users understand the proper use and limitations of the data link systems. Working in this role involves a combination of independent technical analysis and collaborative efforts within multidisciplinary teams.

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

To thrive as a Tactical Data Link Analyst, you need a solid background in computer science, information systems, or a related field, along with experience in analyzing and managing secure military communication networks. Familiarity with systems such as Link 16, Link 11, MIL-STD protocols, and certifications like CompTIA Security+ or CISSP are highly valued. Attention to detail, strong problem-solving abilities, and clear communication enhance effectiveness in collaborating with diverse technical and operational teams. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring reliable, secure, and effective information exchange in mission-critical environments.

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Infographic showing various Tactical Data Link Analyst job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $82,640 per year, or $39.7 per hour.

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Support assessment and analysis of data link architectures, communications infrastructure, and interoperability to inform modernization and systems integration planning.

  • Plan, coordinate, and execute Link 16 and multi-TDL network operations, including configuration, deconfliction, training, testing, and mission debrief activities.

  • Provide operational planning, technical support, and coordination for daily flying operations, exercises, and training related to Tactical Data Link networks.


SAIC rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 81 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

103rd of 226 rated it services


Job description


SAIC is seeking a skilled and experienced Tactical Data Link Analyst to provide technical advisory, asset management, and integration support to the 19th Airlift Wing. 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 serve as the on-site Subject Matter Expert (SME) and primary technical representative, interfacing directly with senior government and joint military personnel on significant technical matters requiring coordination between organizations.
Roles and Responsibilities:
  • Support includes assessment of existing data link architectures, communications infrastructure, command and control systems, interoperability analysis, modernization recommendations, systems integration planning, technical recommendations, integration of tactics, techniques and procedures, and operational training support.
  • Support also includes Link 16 and multi-TDL network planning, configuration, coordination, deconfliction, training, test and exercise execution, and mission debrief activities to improve interoperability across the Joint Data Network in accordance with applicable Air Force and Joint guidance.
  • Support the identification of capability gaps and recommend modernization approaches that improve data exchange, network performance, and integration with Joint and Air Force mission systems.
  • The candidate shall ensure all unit platform interfaces are configured, initialized, and operational strictly in accordance with the published OPTASKLINK, and shall coordinate with the 19th Airlift Wing as well as the theater/exercise Joint Interface Control Officer (JICO) and Joint Interface Control Cell (JICC) to report any internal platform status changes, connectivity issues, or equipment outages that may affect the unit's participation in the Multi-TDL Network (MTN).
  • Provide operational planning, coordination, and integration support for daily flying operations, testing, training, and exercises.
  • Support shall include Tactical Data Link network planning, frequency coordination, scheduling and deconfliction, operational-status coordination, identification of capability gaps, and recommendations for corrective action.
  • Support spectrum management and frequency coordination for Link 16 operations and shall comply with all restrictions or limitations applicable to operations within the 960-1215 MHz frequency band in accordance with AFMAN 13-116.
  • The candidate shall schedule all planned Link 16 operations through the Link 16 Pulse Deconfliction Server (LPDS) to manage Time Slot Duty Factor (TSDF) limits, and shall coordinate with the Joint Staff J-7 for deconfliction of Link 16 operations when local deconfliction is not achievable.
  • Support shall include development and refinement of tactics, techniques, and procedures; preparation of training materials; technical support during operational events; after-action analysis; and support to training requirements for local and subordinate unit link managers.

Qualifications
Required Education and Experience:
  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Systems Engineering or a related technical discipline and 5+ years of experience.
  • Equivalent combination of relevant technical training and demonstrated experience will be considered.
  • Must possess an active Secret clearance.
  • Working knowledge of Link 16 network architecture, Time Division Multiple Access (TDMA), and Time Slot Duty Factor (TSDF) management.
  • Proficiency scheduling Link 16 operations through the Link 16 Pulse Deconfliction Server (LPDS) to manage TSDF limits in accordance with AFMAN 13-116.
  • Familiarity with Multi-TDL Network (MTN) operations, including platform interface configuration and initialization in accordance with published OPTASKLINK.
  • Knowledge of Joint Data Network (JDN) integration and the Common Tactical Picture (CTP).
  • Understanding of RF spectrum management principles applicable to Link 16 operations in the 960-1215 MHz band.
  • Hands-on experience reviewing, interpreting, and extracting data from OPTASKLINK messages to determine TDL network utilization and ensure unit platform compliance prior to operations, training, and testing events.
  • Experience coordinating with JICO, JICC, and Joint Staff J-7 on TDL network matters, connectivity issues, platform status changes, and deconfliction of Link 16 operations.
  • Experience supporting spectrum management and frequency coordination for Link 16 operations within the 960-1215 MHz frequency band in accordance with AFMAN 13-116.
  • Experience providing integration support for TDL networks and unit platform interfaces, including network-design analysis and resolution of connectivity, configuration, and equipment issues.

About Us
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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