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Tactical Data Link Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Astrion

Tactical Data Link Test Engineer - Senior

FL · On-site

$100.90K - $131.10K/yr

Overview Tactical Data Link Test Engineer - Senior LOCATION: Eglin AFB, FL JOB STATUS: Full-time CLEARANCE: Secret CERTIFICATION: N/A TRAVEL: 35% CONUS / OCONUS Astrion has an exciting opportunity ...

Astrion

Tactical Data Link Test Engineer - Senior

FL · On-site

$100.90K - $131.10K/yr

Overview Tactical Data Link Test Engineer - Senior LOCATION: Eglin AFB, FL JOB STATUS: Full-time CLEARANCE: Secret CERTIFICATION: N/A TRAVEL: 35% CONUS / OCONUS Astrion has an exciting opportunity ...

Canvas

Data Link Navigation Engineer

Eglin, FL

Operate and monitor real tactical hardware (data link radios, GPS/INS units, RF frontends) within ... Tactical Data Link (TDL) Engineering * Operate and analyze Link16 and similar or related tactical ...

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Tactical Data Link Engineer information

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$44.5K

$129.7K

$177.5K

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

As of May 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for tactical data link engineer in the United States is $129,716.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $114,500.00 and $137,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Tactical Data Link Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Tactical Data Link Engineer, you need expertise in communication protocols, network engineering, and systems integration, typically supported by a degree in electrical engineering, computer science, or a related field. Familiarity with Link 16, Link 11, MIL-STD messaging standards, and relevant security certifications such as CompTIA Security+ or CISSP is often required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving skills, and effective communication are essential soft skills for collaborating with multidisciplinary teams and troubleshooting issues. These competencies are crucial to ensure secure, reliable, and interoperable data exchange in complex defense environments.

What are some typical challenges faced by Tactical Data Link Engineers when integrating new systems with legacy military communication networks?

Tactical Data Link Engineers often encounter challenges ensuring interoperability between new and legacy communication systems, as older platforms may use outdated protocols or hardware. Addressing security concerns while maintaining real-time data exchange can also be complex, especially when working with classified or sensitive information. Successful engineers collaborate closely with cross-functional teams—such as software developers, system integrators, and defense operations personnel—to troubleshoot integration issues, test connectivity, and validate performance in both simulated and live environments.

What is a Tactical Data Link Engineer?

A Tactical Data Link Engineer is a specialized professional who designs, develops, and maintains communication systems that enable the secure exchange of real-time tactical information between military platforms, such as aircraft, ships, and ground units. These engineers work with protocols like Link 16, Link 11, and others to ensure interoperability and effective data sharing during operations. Their role is crucial in enhancing situational awareness and mission effectiveness for defense organizations.

What is the difference between Tactical Data Link Engineer vs Network Systems Engineer?

AspectTactical Data Link EngineerNetwork Systems Engineer
CredentialsSecurity clearances, technical certifications in data links and communicationsNetworking certifications (e.g., Cisco, CompTIA), relevant degrees
Work EnvironmentMilitary, defense contractors, government agenciesCommercial, enterprise, or government IT environments
Industry UsageDefense, military communications, aerospaceIT, telecommunications, cybersecurity

The Tactical Data Link Engineer specializes in military communication systems, focusing on data link protocols and secure communications within defense environments. In contrast, the Network Systems Engineer designs and manages broader network infrastructures across various industries. Both roles require technical certifications and involve working with complex communication systems, but their applications and environments differ significantly.

More about Tactical Data Link Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Tactical Data Link Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Tactical Data Link Engineer job openings:
What states have the most Tactical Data Link Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Tactical Data Link Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Tactical Data Link Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Tactical Data Link Engineer jobs are:
Tactical Data Link Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Tactical Data Link Engineer job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% As Needed, 49% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 24% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $129,716 per year, or $62.4 per hour.

Data Link Engineer (Test & Integration) - Mid-Level

Astrion

On-site

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Overview
Data Link Engineer (Test & Integration) - Mid-Level
LOCATION: Eglin AFB, FL
JOB STATUS: Full-time
CLEARANCE: Secret
CERTIFICATION: N/A
TRAVEL: 20% CONUS / OCONUS
Astrion has an exciting opportunity for a Data Link Engineer (Test & Integration) - Mid-Level located at Eglin, AFB in Valparaiso, FL.
Our Tactical Data Links (TDL) Test Flight (TGBC) is searching for a Data Link Engineer for the TMAS 2 96 CTG Task Order, supporting the 46 TS / TGBC - the United States Air Force's premier TDL Developmental Test (DT) Team. If you enjoy working in a fast-paced environment and being on the cutting edge of innovative communications technology, this is the place for you. We provide several opportunities to learn and grow, ranging from on-the-job training with other team members to formal courses for unique technology areas.
Astrion has worked extensively with the Department of Defense executing a Technical Management and Advisory Service contract where it has earned a reputation for on-time delivery of high-quality products tailored to the needs of its clients.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS / SKILLS
  • Bachelor's or Master's Degree in a technical field and a minimum of 3-10 years of technical experience is required. Additional experience may be substituted for education.
  • Must be a U.S. citizen and possess and be able to maintain a Secret clearance. Interim Secret clearance required prior to starting employment.
  • Three to ten (3-10) years of technical experience with Fourth Generation (Link 16) radios and tactical data links messages & associated military standards relative to C4ISR.
  • Must be capable of traveling to contractors' facilities, test sites, and other locations, both CONUS and OCONUS.
  • Proficiency in the use and integration of MS Office applications.
  • Effective oral and written communications skills.
  • We are seeking a candidate who possesses a background in radio frequency (RF), secure, tactical data link communications.

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS / SKILLS
  • Relevant technical experience in areas related to tactical data links, data link radios, radio frequency waves and propagation, computer networks.
  • Experience with fourth (Link 16), Familiarity with JREAP and 6026 forwarding, and Link 22 and/or UCI tactical data links interoperability testing, implementation and operations.
  • An understanding of Developmental Test and Evaluation (DT&E) processes for Air Force acquisition programs, with expertise in applying the test methodologies of AFI 99-103 to aircraft systems, weapon systems, and related materiel solutions.
  • Top Secret security clearance.

RESPONSIBILITIES
Serve as the primary face to the customer and TGBC focal point for all test planning, execution, and reporting activities for which TGBC is chartered to support.
  • Perform as a member of the Air Force's premiere tactical data link developmental test team
  • Be a test team lead engineer responsible for planning, developing, executing data link test operations and reporting test findings.
  • Conduct data analysis and apply knowledge of engineering technology.
  • Coordinate data link equipment integration on military ground and airborne platforms.
  • Directly support System Program Offices, other DOD services, Joint Battle Labs, as well as development contractors.
  • Develop and review test architectures for the system under test and coordinate test assets, support assets, and data collection device availability to ensure successful test events.
  • Write and review data link test plans, reports, and procedures.
  • Support data analysis working groups to measure system performance and conduct root cause analysis.
  • Conduct technical research, testing, and reporting of emerging technological systems affecting the performance of all data link test programs.
  • Analyze post test results in a timely fashion so as to meet final test reporting timeliness.
  • Mentor junior engineers.
  • Identify areas for improvement and recommend technical solutions required to meet assigned tasks.
  • Travel to TDY locations to support test events, program management events, or training efforts.

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