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Tactical Data Link Engineer Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

Our Tactical Data Links (TDL) Test Flight (TGBC) is searching for an experienced data link professional and/or test engineer to join the United States Air Force's premier TDL Developmental Test (DT ...

Limited, as needed Astrion has an exciting opportunity for a Senior Systems Engineer supporting the Tactical Data Link (TDL) program which is within the Cyber & Networks Directorate and located at ...

Senior Systems Engineer

FL · On-site

$95K - $130K/yr

Limited, as needed Astrion has an exciting opportunity for a Senior Systems Engineer supporting the Tactical Data Link (TDL) program which is within the Cyber & Networks Directorate and located at ...

Knowledge of Collaboration Tools (SharePoint), telecommunications tools (STEs/VoIP/VTC), Tactical Data Links (Link-16, Link-11, etc.), cross domain solutions/information sharing solutions. * Ability ...

Knowledge of Collaboration Tools (SharePoint), telecommunications tools (STEs/VoIP/VTC), Tactical Data Links (Link-16, Link-11, etc.), cross domain solutions/information sharing solutions. * Ability ...

Showing results 41-60

Tactical Data Link Engineer information

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

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 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.

What job categories do people searching Tactical Data Link Engineer jobs in Florida look for?

The top searched job categories for Tactical Data Link Engineer jobs in Florida are:

What cities in Florida are hiring for Tactical Data Link Engineer jobs?

Cities in Florida with the most Tactical Data Link Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Tactical Data Link Engineer job openings in Florida as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution.

Full-time

Re-posted 24 days ago


Job description

Overview

BlueWater Federal is looking for a Senior COP Manager (Task Lead) to support United States Special Operations Command (USSOCOM) at MacDill AFB. 

As a COP Manager(Task Lead), you will operate various C2 systems, using situational awareness synchronization tools and software applications such as Agile Client, Maven Smart System, MCS COP, and/or other systems, to manage the USSOCOM COP.


Responsibilities
  • Perform as the Task Lead responsible for overall management of the task order including cost, schedule, and performance.
  • Maintain and demonstrate knowledge of GCCS FoS, Maven Smart System, MCS COP, and other C2 applications.
  • Perform as a SME level COP Manager as part of a 24/7 watch team, directing theater joint track/data coordination and manages the theater-wide COP database.
  • Manage the COP across several US and Coalition networks and responds to high priority tasking, to include C2 product development.
  • Implement and operate COP architectures to support exercises and real world JTF operations and contingencies, facilitates the integration of all available sensor data from theater COP Correlation Sites (CCS) and supplemental data from outside sources.
  • Provide operational and technical support of Battlespace Situational Awareness information and coordinate data link interfaces with CCS.
  • Implement and evaluate operations, maintenance, and training procedures across multiple areas including COP directives, TTPs, joint training publications, COP skill sets and functions, and OPTASK Link and COP messages.

Qualifications
  • Must have 10+ years of GCCS experience; At least 3 years’ experience directing, operating, and/or managing programs at a COCOM level (preferably COP Watch Teams)
  • Must have an active TS/SCI clearance
  • Expert knowledge of Joint Operations, Joint C2 systems, Tactical Data Links (TDLs), and Cross-Domain Solutions (CDS)
  • Expert knowledge of Collaboration Tools (SharePoint), telecommunications tools (STEs/VoIP/VTC), Tactical Data Links (Link-16, Link-11, etc.), cross domain solutions/information sharing solutions
  • Ability to give presentations to senior members of U.S. and Coalition defense organizations.
  • Ability to understand and analyze complex communications architectures, Cyber Security requirements / implementation of Risk Management Framework (RMF), and cross-domain solutions (CDS).
  • Familiarity with foreign culture and customs across multiple theaters, willingness to travel to partner countries to assist with C2 engagements.
  • Knowledge with SharePoint and Tasker Management Tool (TMT) is preferred.
  • Knowledge and experience in the development and delivery of training for military communications, C2, and/or situational awareness systems

BlueWater Federal is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer.  All qualified candidates will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a protected veteran, or any other characteristic protected by law. BlueWater Federal is a VEVRAA federal contractor and we request priority referral of veterans.

Qualifications:
  • Must have 10+ years of GCCS experience; At least 3 years’ experience directing, operating, and/or managing programs at a COCOM level (preferably COP Watch Teams)
  • Must have an active TS/SCI clearance
  • Expert knowledge of Joint Operations, Joint C2 systems, Tactical Data Links (TDLs), and Cross-Domain Solutions (CDS)
  • Expert knowledge of Collaboration Tools (SharePoint), telecommunications tools (STEs/VoIP/VTC), Tactical Data Links (Link-16, Link-11, etc.), cross domain solutions/information sharing solutions
  • Ability to give presentations to senior members of U.S. and Coalition defense organizations.
  • Ability to understand and analyze complex communications architectures, Cyber Security requirements / implementation of Risk Management Framework (RMF), and cross-domain solutions (CDS).
  • Familiarity with foreign culture and customs across multiple theaters, willingness to travel to partner countries to assist with C2 engagements.
  • Knowledge with SharePoint and Tasker Management Tool (TMT) is preferred.
  • Knowledge and experience in the development and delivery of training for military communications, C2, and/or situational awareness systems

BlueWater Federal is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer.  All qualified candidates will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a protected veteran, or any other characteristic protected by law. BlueWater Federal is a VEVRAA federal contractor and we request priority referral of veterans.

Education:UNAVAILABLEEmployment Type: FULL_TIME