ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Tactical Data Link Engineer Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

RIT Solutions, Inc.

Data Engineer

Washington, DC · On-site

$129K - $155K/yr

... and tactical data requests • Collaborate with platform engineers, analytics teams, and business stakeholders to ensure timely, accurate data delivery • Contribute to CI/CD pipelines, test ...

RIT Solutions, Inc.

Data Engineer

Washington, DC · On-site

$129K - $155K/yr

... and tactical data requests • Collaborate with platform engineers, analytics teams, and business stakeholders to ensure timely, accurate data delivery • Contribute to CI/CD pipelines, test ...

GRVTY

Data Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$118K - $142K/yr

GRVTY is a company that provides tactical data engineering solutions, embedding skilled professionals into intelligence analyst groups. They are seeking a Data Engineer to develop tools and services ...

Helsing

Senior RF Engineer

Washington, DC · On-site

As an RF Engineer for Communications and Networking, you will work in one of the most contested ... Experience with specific tactical datalinks such as Link 16, JREAP, CDL (Common Data Link), or ...

Helsing

Senior RF Engineer

Washington, DC · On-site

As an RF Engineer for Communications and Networking, you will work in one of the most contested ... Experience with specific tactical datalinks such as Link 16, JREAP, CDL (Common Data Link), or ...

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsTactical Data Link Engineer JobsTactical Data Link Engineer Jobs in Washington

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 are popular job titles related to Tactical Data Link Engineer jobs in Washington?

For Tactical Data Link Engineer jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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

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

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

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

Tactical Data Link Engineer jobs near you

Systems Engineer SME

Modern Technology Solutions, Inc.

Washington, DC • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

MTSI is seeking a Systems Engineer SME with a TS/SCI clearance to provide support to a high-profile Air Force customer at Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling Air Force Base (JBAB), DC or Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, OH. The Systems Engineer SME's primary focus will be to provide systems engineering as well as program and acquisition support to the Government Team Lead. In addition, the individual will provide technical and programmatic advice and support services on aerospace systems, command and control systems, and computer processing-related technologies and programs.
This position may entail travel up to 25%, as required by the Government.
Responsibilities:
  • Provide engineering support for program management execution of a United Stated Air Force (USAF) program. Work with program teams to develop program objectives, integrated roadmaps, detailed schedules, and program budgets.
  • Support the development of technical documentation including, but not limited to, statements of work and specifications, leadership briefs, specific engineering briefs related to the subject matter.
  • Analyze manufacturers' proposals as permitted by law and regulation. Facilitate and provide engineering support throughout the design, integration, and test and execution processes.
  • Apply integration, communication, coordination, organizational and planning expertise to technical research and development activities and acquisition across a broad spectrum of functional disciplines in order to assist with the implementation of program direction.
  • Plan, organize and manage critical aspects of the development, production, and/or development of systems, sub-systems, or equipment, to include managing program cost, schedule, and performance.
  • Assist in milestone planning, tracking, scheduling, briefing preparations, staff coordination, and decision documentation preparation.
  • Gather data, conduct analyses, evaluation, and validations of acquisition programmatic documentation.
  • Assist the program office in complying with tasks related to the Joint Capabilities Integration and Development System, CONOPS, architectural views, security accreditations and certifications, acquisition reports, program management agreements, and memorandums of agreement.
  • Assist the program office in complying with applicable statutory and regulatory guidance.
  • Assist in the creation and approval of acquisition strategies, program planning and creation, early capability development strategies and project planning, and the transition of program execution to the appropriate Program Executive Officer.
  • Develop integration plans and procedures and organize resources to facilitate program transition activities.
  • Develop and communicate roadmaps for programs and associated technologies and product lines.
  • Establish trusted and influential relationships with customers, suppliers, and other stakeholders.
  • Work both individually and with a broader engineering, program management, and security team.
  • Work on multiple networks across various classification levels, adhering to all security policies, procedures, and processes.

Required Experience
  • 20+ years of relevant engineering experience with at least:
  • 15+ years in an engineering role for a systems program office/similar organization.
  • Have experience working on classified and/or special access programs.
  • Be a self-starter, thrive in a dynamic environment, can accomplish high-level tasks independently, is skilled in problem definition, and work well with other team members, members of the Senior Executive Service and senior military officers.
  • Ability to coordinate with both internal and external organizations to accomplish common goals.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office products (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Project, Teams).
  • Highly adept in engineering tools such as Cameo, DOORS.
  • Ability to learn new tools and adopt digital engineering business practices.
  • Must have knowledge of military platforms, systems, and operations.
  • Must have experience with collaboration tools including but not limited to: Confluence and/or Jira.
  • Must have excellent oral and written communication skills and the ability to clearly translate client technical needs and assimilate project information.
  • The selected candidate will have some or all of the following experience:
  1. Strong Understanding of Radio Frequency and Communications Systems: Demonstrated experience with designing, deploying, or managing radio frequency solutions, including but not limited to Link-16, SATCOM technologies, or other tactical data link protocols supporting mission-critical operations.
  2. Cloud and Enterprise IT Expertise: Hands-on experience in architecting, managing, or maintaining secure, scalable cloud environments or hybrid infrastructure solutions for enterprise IT systems, with an understanding of integration with Command and Control (C2) applications and electronic warfare systems.
  3. Experience in Electronic Warfare or Tactical Communications: Proficiency in the implementation and support of electronic warfare systems, secure communication protocols, and the configuration of advanced communication networks for military operations, leveraging knowledge of modern C2 systems and tactical communication domains.

Required Education
  • BS degree in a technical field such as engineering, mathematics or physics
  • Master's Degree

Desired Experience
  • Good knowledge of networking, communications, command and control systems, and datalinks.
  • Knowledge of current DoD acquisition regulations/policy and applicable Federal Acquisition Regulations.
  • Knowledge of the Air Force Life Cycle Management Center's framework, directives, and policies.

Required Clearance
  • Candidates for this position must possess a current TOP SECRET clearance and be eligible for access to both TOP SECRET Special Access Programs (SAPs) and TOP SECRET Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI).
  • Requires 12 months of SAP experience within the last 3 years.

The pay range for this position in is $150,000/year to $270,000/year; however, base pay offered may vary depending on established government contract ranges, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience, and other factors. MTSI also offers a full range of medical, financial, and other benefits, dependent on the position offered. Base pay information is based on market location. Applications will be accepted on an ongoing basis. This posting will be renewed periodically until the position is filled.
#LI-KK1
#cherryblossoms

Apply