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Tactical Data Link Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SAIC

Tactical Data Link Analyst

Little Rock, AR · On-site

Description SAIC is seeking a skilled and experienced Tactical Data Link Analyst to provide ... Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Systems Engineering or a related technical discipline and 5+ ...

New

SAIC

Tactical Data Link Analyst

Little Rock, AR

ORA_ON_SITE Description SAIC is seeking a skilled and experienced Tactical Data Link Analyst to ... Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Systems Engineering or a related technical discipline and 5+ ...

New

SAIC

Tactical Data Link Analyst

Little Rock, AR · On-site

ORA_ON_SITE Description SAIC is seeking a skilled and experienced Tactical Data Link Analyst to ... Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Systems Engineering or a related technical discipline and 5+ ...

New

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 ...

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Tactical Data Link Engineer information

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$44.5K

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$177.5K

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

As of Aug 22, 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 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.

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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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $129,716 per year, or $62.4 per hour.

Tactical Data Link Analyst

Science Applications International Corporation

Little Rock, AR • On-site

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

New

SAIC rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 79 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

80th of 225 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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