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Tactical Data Link Manager 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 technical advisory, asset management, and integration support to the 19th Airlift Wing. The ideal candidate ...

New

Curtiss-Wright

Tactical Data Link Specialist

Tewksbury, MA · On-site

$83K - $106K/yr

... Manager software. Following our training plan, you will have the ability to conduct complex regression tests for advanced, Department of Defense (DoD) tactical communication data link systems. Your ...

Canvas

Tactical Data Link Engineer

Niceville, FL · On-site

$106K - $127K/yr

Key Responsibilities * Operate and monitor real tactical hardware (data link radios, GPS/INS units, RF frontends) within HITL simulation environments. * Integrate hardware with ...

SAIC

Tactical Data Link Analyst

Little Rock, AR

ORA_ON_SITE 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 ...

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 provide technical advisory, asset management, and integration support to the 19th Airlift Wing. The ...

New

Canvas

Tactical Data Link Engineer

Niceville, FL · On-site

$106K - $127K/yr

Operate and monitor real tactical hardware (data link radios, GPS/INS units, RF front-ends) within HITL simulation environments. * Integrate hardware with Live-Virtual-Constructive (LVC ...

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Tactical Data Link Manager information

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$97.1K

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

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for tactical data link manager in the United States is $97,145.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $66,000.00 and $125,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Tactical Data Link Manager?

A Tactical Data Link Manager is a specialized professional responsible for overseeing and coordinating tactical data link systems used in military or defense operations. These systems enable the secure exchange of real-time information, such as location, targeting, and command data, between different platforms and units. The manager ensures the effective planning, integration, and operation of these links to support mission requirements. They also troubleshoot issues, maintain system security, and provide training to users. This role is critical for maintaining communication superiority and situational awareness in complex operational environments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Tactical Data Link Manager?

To thrive as a Tactical Data Link Manager, you need a solid background in military communications, network operations, and systems integration, often supported by relevant security clearances and technical degrees. Familiarity with tactical data link systems such as Link 16, JREAP, and MIL-STD protocols, as well as certifications like CompTIA Security+ or CISSP, are highly valued. Strong analytical thinking, leadership, and effective communication skills distinguish top performers in this role. These competencies are crucial for ensuring secure, reliable, and timely information exchange in mission-critical environments.

What are some common challenges faced by Tactical Data Link Managers when coordinating between different military branches or allied forces?

Tactical Data Link Managers often encounter challenges related to interoperability between diverse communication systems and protocols used by different military branches or allied nations. Ensuring secure, real-time data exchange while maintaining information integrity and confidentiality can be complex, especially during joint operations. Effective coordination requires strong technical knowledge, attention to detail, and proactive communication with both internal teams and external partners to quickly address compatibility or security issues as they arise.

What is the difference between Tactical Data Link Manager vs Network Operations Specialist?

AspectTactical Data Link ManagerNetwork Operations Specialist
CredentialsSecurity clearances, military or defense certificationsNetworking certifications, security clearances
Work EnvironmentMilitary, defense, or government settings focused on tactical communication systemsIT or telecommunications environments managing network infrastructure
Industry UsageDefense, military operations, government agenciesTelecommunications, IT services, government agencies

The Tactical Data Link Manager primarily focuses on managing secure communication links in military operations, requiring specialized defense credentials. In contrast, a Network Operations Specialist handles broader network infrastructure in various industries. While both roles require security clearances and technical knowledge, their work environments and industry applications differ significantly.

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Tactical Data Link Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Tactical Data Link Manager job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $97,145 per year, or $46.7 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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