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Tactical Data Link Manager Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ... Common Data Link Management System utilization * Ability to analyze operations, provide actionable ...

Tactical Data Link Test Engineer - Senior

FL · On-site

$100K - $131K/yr

Overview Tactical Data Link Test Engineer - Senior LOCATION: Eglin AFB, FL JOB STATUS: Full-time ... Astrion has worked extensively with the Department of Defense executing a Technical Management and ...

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 ... Common Data Link Management System utilization * Ability to analyze operations, provide actionable ...

NY · On-site

$112K - $135K/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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$31K

$97.1K

$172K

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

As of Sep 13, 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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Infographic showing various Tactical Data Link Manager job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $97,145 per year, or $46.7 per hour.

Tech Support Specialist C4I-Tactical Data Link (Engineer Systems 2) - 29611

Virginia Beach, VA • On-site

Huntington Ingalls Industries
Manufacturing • 10K+ employees

$72K - $85K/yr

Other

Re-posted 10 days ago


Huntington Ingalls Industries rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Huntington Ingalls Industries

Based on 148 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Tech Support Specialist C4I-Tactical Data Link (Engineer Systems 2) - 29611

Requisition Number:29611

Required Travel: 0 - 10%

Employment Type:Full Time/Salaried/Exempt

Anticipated Salary Range:$72,254.00-$85,000.00

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.

Leadership at HII – Mission Technologies

Leadership at HII is a mindset, not a title. Through our Leadership Capability Framework, we define how every employee grows, leads, and contributes—regardless of role. It sets the standard for how you can develop yourself and what you can expect from leaders across our organization. We look for candidates who want to grow in alignment with these capabilities:

  • Know & Grow Your People – Develop talent, empower teams, and build an inclusive environment.
  • Build Relationships – Strengthen trust, collaboration, and cross-functional partnerships.
  • Take Ownership – Drive accountability, execution excellence, and results.
  • Customer First – Anticipate mission needs and deliver value to our partners.
  • Shape the Future – Inspire innovation and align work with strategic priorities.
  • Act with Urgency – Make informed decisions and move with purpose.

These capabilities define how leaders inspire teams, deliver results, and shape the future of Mission Technologies.

Who We Are

Mission Technologies, a division of Huntington Ingalls Industries, is seeking a qualified candidate for the role of Technical Support Specialist – C4I. This onsite position is based at Chamberlain Hall, Dam Neck Annex in Virginia Beach, VA, supporting both the Maritime Operations Center – Exercise Support Team (MOC‑EST) and the Naval Surface Warfare Center – Corona (NSWC‑Corona). The role delivers Navy LVC training across all assigned Areas of Responsibility (AORs) and serves as the C4I Systems Tactical Data Link (TDL) Engineer, providing TDL operational expertise for all Fleet Synthetic Training (FST) events supporting fleet and task force staffs.

What You Will Do
  • The specialist will be required to perform Operations on all NSWC TDL systems and Maintenance as required.
  • 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.
  • 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.
What You Must Have
  • 2 years relevant experience with Bachelors in related field; 0 years experience with Masters in related field; or High School Diploma or equivalent and 6 years relevant experience.
  • Candidate 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.
  • Candidate must have flexibility to work non-standard work hours and work weeks of more than 40 hours to meet business, customer, and contractual requirements.
  • Candidate must have experience working with Link 16.
  • Candidate must have understanding of Modeling and Simulation Systems.
  • Candidate must have a strong background in Tactical Data Link (TDL) systems.
  • Candidate must have technical leadership ability.
  • Candidate must be able to address technical issues and engage engineers from the appropriate domains to resolve.
  • Candidate must have excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Candidate must be a U.S. Citizen.
  • Candidate must have an active Secret Clearance.
Bonus Points For Having!
  • Experience with MILSTD 6016.
  • Graduate of USN or Joint TDL school.
  • Understanding of TDL topology and C4I architectures.
  • 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.

The listed salary range for this role is intended as a good faith estimate based on the role's location, expectations, and responsibilities. When extending an offer, HII's Mission Technologies division takes a variety of factors into consideration which include, but are not limited to, the role's function and a candidate's education or training, work experience, and key skills.

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.

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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Working at Huntington Ingalls Industries

About Huntington Ingalls Industries, in their own words

From Huntington Ingalls Industries

Our 44,000-strong team includes skilled tradespeople; artificial intelligence and machine learning experts; engineers; technologists; scientists; logistics experts; and business administration professionals. Recognized as one of America's top large employers, we are a values and ethics driven organization that puts people's safety and well-being first. Here you'll find a collaborative environment, competitive benefits, and valuable educational and training programs that span our shipbuilding apprentice schools in Virginia and Mississippi to tuition reimbursement programs that support continual career growth at every stage of your career.

Our values of integrity, safety, respect, engagement, responsibility and performance are the foundation of HII's ethical culture that inspires employees to do the right thing each day, regardless of the circumstances.


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