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Tactical Data Link Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SAIC

Tactical Data Link (TDL) Technician

Virginia Beach, VA · On-site

$40K - $80K/yr

Engineering and Sciences Subcategory: Design Engineer Schedule: Full-Time Shift: Day Job Travel ... ORA_ON_SITE Description SAIC has an immediate opening for a Tactical Data Link (TDL) technician in ...

New

Agile Defense

... developer-level issues in a clear, concise, and easily understood manner. * Familiar with ... Tactical Data Link Integration Exerciser (TIGER), Air Defense Systems Integrator (ADSI ...

Abacus Technology

Systems Engineer

Shalimar, FL

Provide engineering and Tactical Data Link (LINK 16, SADL) support. * Setup and operate equipment used to support the fielding and training of Tactical Data Links. * Operate Tactical Radios to ...

Agile Defense

... developer-level issues in a clear, concise, and easily understood manner. * Familiar with ... Tactical Data Link Integration Exerciser (TIGER), Air Defense Systems Integrator (ADSI ...

Abacus Technology

Systems Engineer

Shalimar, FL · On-site

Provide engineering and Tactical Data Link (LINK 16, SADL) support. * Setup and operate equipment used to support the fielding and training of Tactical Data Links. * Operate Tactical Radios to ...

Abacus Technology

Systems Engineer

Shalimar, FL · On-site

Provide engineering and Tactical Data Link (LINK 16, SADL) support. * Setup and operate equipment used to support the fielding and training of Tactical Data Links. * Operate Tactical Radios to ...

Raytheon

Principal RF Data Link Engineer

Tucson, AZ

... 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 ...

SAIC

Lead Interoperability Test Engineer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$97K - $128K/yr

SW Systems Engr Schedule: Full-Time Shift: Day Job Travel: Yes - 25% of the time Minimum Clearance ... Ensure the team maintains up-to-date knowledge of tactical data link (TDL) military standards ...

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Tactical Data Link Engineer information

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$44.5K

$129.7K

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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.
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:
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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.
Tactical Data Link (TDL) Technician

Tactical Data Link (TDL) Technician

SAIC

Virginia Beach, VA • On-site

$40K - $80K/yr

Other

Posted 2 days ago

New

SAIC rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 79 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

68th of 210 rated it services

Job description

Job ID: 2614359
Location: Virginia Beach, VA, US
Date Posted: 2026-07-08
Category: Engineering and Sciences
Subcategory: Design Engineer
Schedule: Full-Time
Shift: Day Job
Travel: Yes - 50% of the time
Minimum Clearance Required: Secret
Clearance Level Must Be Able to Obtain: None
Potential for Remote Work: ORA_ON_SITE
Description
SAIC has an immediate opening for a Tactical Data Link (TDL) technician in Virginia Beach, VA
Principal responsibilities include:
  • Act as a TDL Link-11 and 16 operator and technician during test events. Analyze Link messages through MLST-3 server interacting with MIDS, STT and/or DTSK-11.
  • Support test efforts with AEGIS Modernization Team and Systems Operations Verification Testing at various shipyards.
  • Work with assigned government TDL lead to understand Link test objectives and obtain necessary keymat and OPTASK parameters
  • Pre-check and groom of Link equipment prior to testing
  • Perform Link-11 and Link-16 operations during test events
  • Troubleshoot with shipboard personnel and other land-based test sites if problems arise during operations; and provide reports to government TDL lead with findings and notes.

Candidate must be have high level of competency with MLST-3 servers to investigate any complications that may arise during testing. Candidate must have a high level of competency upgrading, installing, and configuring application software and computer hardware. Working knowledge of Link-11 and Link-16 message strings.
The ability to evaluate data needed for testing is essential for this role. This position will also be responsible for Identification Friend or Foe (IFF) cryptographic load testing with the commercial Lear jets.
Qualifications
Minimum:
  • Security clearance required: SECRET (minimum).
  • A BS and 0 years of experience or a HS and minimum of 6 years working with TDL systems Experience with operating Link-11 and 16 TDL equipment.
  • Demonstrated ability to work in a complex Test and Evaluation (T&E) environment within the Department of Defense (NAVSEA, NAVAIR, FMS, etc.)
  • Computer literacy (MS Office), technical writing proficiency, and excellent oral presentation skills.
  • Ability to traverse from aircraft and ships at-sea, up and down shipboard ladders/decks.
  • Demonstrated experience briefing large contingents of active duty and civilian personnel.
  • Travel: 25 - 50% minimum.
  • Must be able to mutli-person lift heavy objects in excess of 50 pounds.

Desired:
  • Electronics Technician capable of maintaining and repairing complex computer and cryptographic systems.
  • Experience with loading keymat to TDL equipment.
  • Experience with developing and working from an OPTASK for Link operations.

Target salary range: $40,001 - $80,000. The estimate displayed represents the typical salary range for this position based on experience and other factors.
SAIC is a premier technology integrator providing full life cycle services and solutions in the technical, engineering, intelligence, and enterprise information technology markets. SAIC is Redefining Ingenuity through its deep customer and domain knowledge to enable the delivery of systems engineering and integration offerings for large, complex projects. SAIC's approximately 15,000 employees are driven by integrity and mission focus to serve customers in the U.S. federal government. Headquartered in Reston, Virginia, SAIC has annual revenues of approximately $4.5 billion. For more information, visit saic.com. For information on the benefits SAIC offers, see .

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