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Tactical Data Link Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... tactical missile programs. As part of the RF Products department, you will contribute to cutting ... engineering with a focus on digital communications, communications systems design, data link ...

... tactical missile programs. As part of the RF Products department, you will contribute to cutting ... engineering with a focus in digital communications, communications systems design, data link ...

... tactical missile programs. As part of the RF Products department, you will contribute to cutting ... engineering with a focus in digital communications, communications systems design, data link ...

... tactical missile programs. As part of the RF Products department, you will contribute to cutting ... engineering with a focus in digital communications, communications systems design, data link ...

... tactical missile programs. As part of the RF Products department, you will contribute to cutting ... engineering with a focus on digital communications, communications systems design, data link ...

... tactical missile programs. As part of the RF Products department, you will contribute to cutting ... engineering with a focus in digital communications, communications systems design, data link ...

Products we develop support data link applications on a variety of tactical missile programs. The ... Provide engineering support through participation in project design reviews, peer reviews ...

Products we develop support data link applications on a variety of tactical missile programs. The ... Provide engineering support through participation in project design reviews, peer reviews ...

... tactical missile programs. As part of the RF Products department, you will contribute to cutting ... engineering with a focus in digital communications, communications systems design, data link ...

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Tactical Data Link Engineer information

See salary details

$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:
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.
Principal RF Data Link Engineer

Principal RF Data Link Engineer

Raytheon

Provo, UT

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago


Raytheon rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Based on 81 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

3rd of 512 rated manufacturers


Job description

Date Posted:

2026-03-26

Country:

United States of America

Location:

US-AZ-TUCSON-M02 ~ 1151 E Hermans Rd ~ BLDG M02

Position Role Type:

Onsite

U.S. Citizen, U.S. Person, or Immigration Status Requirements:

Active and transferable U.S. government issued security clearance is required prior to start date.​ U.S. citizenship is required, as only U.S. citizens are eligible for a security clearance​

Security Clearance Type:

DoD Clearance: Secret

Security Clearance Status:

Ability to obtain INTERIM U.S. government issued security clearance is required prior to start date

At Raytheon, the foundation of everything we do is rooted in our values and a higher calling – to help our nation and allies defend freedoms and deter aggression. We bring the strength of more than 100 years of experience and renowned engineering expertise to meet the needs of today’s mission and stay ahead of tomorrow’s threat. Our team solves tough, meaningful problems that create a safer, more secure world.

The Advanced Effector Guidance Systems is currently searching for Electrical Engineers who have experience designing wireless communication and data links. This position focuses on designing and testing wireless communication and data link systems, supporting a range of tactical missile programs. As part of the RF Products department, you will contribute to cutting-edge advancements in high-capacity, covert, and agile data link technologies for space-based and terrestrial RF applications.

The Data Link subsystems team develops the next generation of high capacity, covert, and agile data links. From space based to terrestrial RF links, Raytheon develops RF data link subsystems for the most challenging environments. As a member of this team within the RF Products department your tasks may include:

Communications systems design

Data link hardware development

Algorithm development

Digital signal processing

What You Will Do

  • Perform and/or evaluate concept and performance trade studies, link budget analyses and demonstrate developed capabilities for data link communication applications.

  • Perform hardware and software Communication Architecture trade studies.

  • Develop, prototype, and test data link models and communication signal processing algorithms in detailed high-fidelity simulations and support hardware implementation.

  • Testing, verifying and validating communication and signal processing algorithm requirements and performance in laboratory or field test environments.

  • Provide engineering support through participation in project design reviews, peer reviews, briefings to internal leadership and external customers for all phases of development tasks.

Qualifications You Must Have

  • Typically requires a Bachelors Degree in Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics (STEM) and a minimum of 8 years of prior relevant experience 

  • A minimum of 8 years of experience in programming and / or simulation experience in MATLAB, SIMULINK, C/C++, or equivalent language.

  • Five (5) years of experience in three or more of the following categories:

  • Communication theory

  • Digital signal processing

  • Probability theory

  • Stochastic signal processing

  • RF and electromagnetic theory

Qualifications We Prefer

  • Master’s degree in electrical engineering or computer engineering with a focus on digital communications, communications systems design, data link hardware, development, waveform algorithm development, or digital signal processing.

  • Experience collaborating with and guiding cross-functional teams, including hardware and software engineers, to support integration efforts.

  • Experience with RF subsystems analysis and integration.

  • Hands-on experience with waveform simulations using modulation schemes such as PSK, FSK, OFDM, and QAM.

  • Knowledge of RF impairments (e.g., phase noise, multipath, Doppler).

  • Proficiency in link budget and propagation modeling for end-to-end system evaluation.

  • Strong understanding of RF transceiver and front-end design, including trade-offs in RF designs for communication systems.

  • Familiarity with antenna design parameters.

  • Experience with fixed-point algorithm simulations for VHDL verification and wireless fading model simulations.

  • Knowledge of Layer 2 and above communication protocols.

  • Strong technical, analytical, and interpersonal skills.

What We Offer

Our values drive our actions, behaviors, and performance with a vision for a safer, more connected world. At RTX we value: Trust, Respect, Accountability, Collaboration, and Innovation.

This position is an onsite role, located in Tucson, AZ and is eligible for relocation assistance.

As part of our commitment to maintaining a secure hiring process, candidates may be asked to attend select steps of the interview process in-person at one of our office locations, regardless of whether the role is designated as on-site, hybrid or remote.

The salary range for this role is 107,500 USD - 204,500 USD. The salary range provided is a good faith estimate representative of all experience levels. RTX considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the role, function and associated responsibilities, a candidate’s work experience, location, education/training, and key skills.Hired applicants may be eligible for benefits, including but not limited to, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, 401(k) match, flexible spending accounts, flexible work schedules, employee assistance program, Employee Scholar Program, parental leave, paid time off, and holidays. Specific benefits are dependent upon the specific business unit as well as whether or not the position is covered by a collective-bargaining agreement.Hired applicants may be eligible for annual short-term and/or long-term incentive compensation programs depending on the level of the position and whether or not it is covered by a collective-bargaining agreement. Payments under these annual programs are not guaranteed and are dependent upon a variety of factors including, but not limited to, individual performance, business unit performance, and/or the company’s performance.This role is a U.S.-based role. If the successful candidate resides in a U.S. territory, the appropriate pay structure and benefits will apply.RTX anticipates the application window closing approximately 40 days from the date the notice was posted. However, factors such as candidate flow and business necessity may require RTX to shorten or extend the application window.

RTX is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability or veteran status, or any other applicable state or federal protected class. RTX provides affirmative action in employment for qualified Individuals with a Disability and Protected Veterans in compliance with Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act and the Vietnam Era Veterans’ Readjustment Assistance Act.

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