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Tactical Data Link Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Prevailance

Tactical Data Link SME

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

This role provides direct support to pre-deployment training, Multi-Tactical Data Link ( MTDL ... TTP development and Distributed Engineering ( DEP/JDEP ) * JICO operations, Strike Group operations ...

Prevailance, Inc.

Tactical Data Link SME

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

This role provides direct support to pre-deployment training, Multi-Tactical Data Link ( MTDL ... TTP development and Distributed Engineering ( DEP/JDEP ) * JICO operations, Strike Group operations ...

Prevailance

Tactical Data Link SME

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

This role provides direct support to pre-deployment training, Multi-Tactical Data Link ( MTDL ... TTP development and Distributed Engineering ( DEP/JDEP ) * JICO operations, Strike Group operations ...

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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 Jul 11, 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 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 does a tactical data link analyst do?

A tactical data link analyst is responsible for analyzing, maintaining, and optimizing data link systems used for secure communication and data sharing among military platforms. They ensure interoperability, troubleshoot technical issues, and support system integration using tools like network protocols and communication standards. This role often requires knowledge of military communication systems, cybersecurity, and relevant certifications.

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 is a tactical data link?

A tactical data link is a secure communication system used by military and defense personnel, including Tactical Data Link Engineers, to transmit real-time battlefield information such as sensor data, targeting, and situational awareness between platforms like aircraft, ships, and ground units. These links enable coordinated operations and require knowledge of network protocols, encryption, and interoperability standards.

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 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 jobs will boom in 10 years?

Tactical Data Link Engineers are expected to see growth as defense and military sectors increasingly rely on advanced communication networks and secure data sharing. Skills in cybersecurity, network architecture, and experience with military communication systems will be highly valuable in the coming decade.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

While most engineering roles do not typically reach a $500,000 annual salary, highly specialized positions such as senior tactical data link engineers with extensive experience, security clearances, and advanced certifications in defense or aerospace industries can approach or exceed this level, especially in senior leadership or consulting roles. These roles often require expertise in complex systems, programming, and operational environments, and may involve working for government contractors or defense agencies.
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What cities are hiring for Tactical Data Link Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Tactical Data Link Engineer job openings:
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Tactical Data Link Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Tactical Data Link Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $129,716 per year, or $62.4 per hour.

Tech Support Specialist C4I-Tactical Data Link (Engineer Systems 2)

HII's Mission Technologies division

Virginia Beach, VA • On-site

$68K - $97K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Requisition Number: 27534 

Required Travel: 0 - 10%

Employment Type: Full Time/Salaried/Exempt

Anticipated Salary Range: $68,050.00 - $97,000.00 

Security Clearance: Secret  

Level of Experience: Mid 

This opportunity resides with Global Security (GS). Mission Technologies' Global Security (GS) group comprises live, virtual, constructive (LVC) solutions; fleet sustainment; nuclear and environmental; and Australia business.
As a trusted partner to our military customers, HII designs, develops and operates the largest LVC enterprise that prepares warfighters for cross-domain battle. With advanced technologies to enable mission readiness, HII understands that preparation requires full coordination-not readiness in piece-parts.
For more than 40 years, the U.S. Navy has entrusted HII to maintain and modernize the vast majority of its fleet. With a holistic approach to life-cycle maritime defense systems-from small watercraft to submarines, surface combatants and aircraft carriers-HII ensures a high state of readiness.
HII supports the Department of Energy's national security mission through the management and operation of its sites, as well as the safe cleanup of legacy waste across the country. HII meets clients' toughest nuclear and environmental challenges.
 

Meet HII's Mission Technologies Division
Our team of more than 7,000 professionals worldwide delivers all-domain expertise and advanced technologies in service of mission partners across the globe. Mission Technologies is leading the next evolution of national defense - the data evolution - by accelerating a breadth of national security solutions for government and commercial customers. Our capabilities range from C5ISR, AI and Big Data, cyber operations and synthetic training environments to fleet sustainment, environmental remediation and the largest family of unmanned underwater vehicles in every class. Find the role that's right for you. Apply today. We look forward to meeting you.

To learn more about Mission Technologies, click here for a short video: https://vimeo.com/732533072

Job Description

Mission Technologies, a division of Huntington Ingalls Industries, is searching for a qualified candidate to fill the role of Technical Support Specialist - C4I. The position works onsite Chamberlain Hall, Dam Neck Annex, Virginia Beach, Va. supporting Maritime Operation Center - Exercise Support Team (MOC-EST) and Naval Surface Warfare Center- Corona (NSWC-Corona) in providing Navy LVC training throughout all assigned Areas of Responsibility (AORs).  This position acts as the C4I Systems Tactical Data Link (TDL) Engineer and provides TDL operations expertise to all training (FST) events for fleet and task force staff.  The Specialist will be required to perform Operations on all NSWC TDL systems and Maintenance as required. They will interface with outside agencies to provide TDL system connectivity between major commands and will assist with the testing and integration of new Tactical Data Link technologies. Candidates must be able to analyze and troubleshoot at the system level to detect and resolve problems and will require interaction with Military, Government and Contractor Leadership. Communication skills are required.  The position requires flexibility to work non-standard work hours and work weeks of more than 40 hours to meet business, customer, and contractual requirements.

Essential Job Responsibilities
  • Provide knowledge and expertise in operating Tactical Data Link (TDL) systems.
  • Provide knowledge of Link 16 protocols, waveforms, and network architectures.
  • Provide Onsite and remote troubleshooting support for Tactical Data Link (TDL) systems across NCTE Enterprise
  • Prepare reports and briefs as required.
Minimum Qualifications
  • High School Diploma or equivalent and 6 years relevant experience, or 2 years relevant experience with Bachelor in related field, or 0 years relevant experience with Masters in related field.
  • Strong background in Tactical Data Link (TDL) systems.
  • COMPTIA Security+ certification within 90 days. 
  • Experience working with Link 16.
  • Experience with TDL protocols.
  • Understanding of TDL topology and C4I architectures.
  • Must have technical leadership ability. During LVC event execution, must be able to address technical issues and engage engineers from the appropriate domains to resolve.
  • Must have excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Active Secret Clearance and the ability to obtain. 
Preferred Requirements
  • Experience with Tactical Data Analysis Connectivity System (TDACS), Gateway Manager (GWM, and Link Management and Monitoring Tool (LMMT)
  • Familiarity with Joint Semi-Automated Forces/Joint Simulated Bus (JSAF/JBUS).
  • DIS Experience with Model and Simulation Systems to include Joint Live Virtual Constructive    (JLVC) and JSAF.
  • Experience working with Navy training systems and command structure.
Physical Requirements
Office, industrial, or shipboard environment. Capable of climbing ladders and tolerating confined spaces and extreme temperature variances. Lifting and moving materials may be required.

HII is more than a job - it's an opportunity to build a new future. We offer competitive benefits such as best-in-class medical, dental and vision plan choices; wellness resources; employee assistance programs; Savings Plan Options (401(k)); financial planning tools, life insurance; employee discounts; paid holidays and paid time off; tuition reimbursement; as well as early childhood and post-secondary education scholarships. Bonus/other non-recurrent compensation is occasionally offered for qualified positions, and if applicable to this role will be addressed by the recruiter at the screening phase of application.

Why HII
We build the world's most powerful, survivable naval ships and defense technology solutions that safeguard our seas, sky, land, space and cyber. Our workforce includes skilled tradespeople; artificial intelligence, machine learning (AI/ML) experts; engineers; technologists; scientists; logistics experts; and business administration professionals.

Recognized as one of America's top large company employers, we are a values and ethics driven organization that puts people's safety and well-being first. Regardless of your role or where you serve, at HII, you'll find a supportive and welcoming environment, competitive benefits, and valuable educational and training programs for continual career growth at every stage of your career.

Together we are working to ensure a future where everyone can be free and thrive.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, physical or mental disability, age, or veteran status or any other basis protected by federal, state, or local law.

Do You Need Assistance? 
If you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment process, please send an e-mail to buildyourcareer@hii-co.com and let us know the nature of your request and your contact information. Reasonable accommodations are considered on a case-by-case basis. Please note that only those inquiries concerning a request for reasonable accommodation will be responded to from this email address. Additionally, you may also call 1-844-849-8463 for assistance. Press #3 for HII Mission Technologies.

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