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Tactical Data Link Jobs in Georgia (NOW HIRING)

In this role, the candidate is responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining comprehensive training curricula for the MIDS JTRS and related Tactical Data Link (TDL) technologies. This role ...

Employ Air Force Tactical Data Links (Link-16, JTIDS) in operational scenarios across multiple mission types. * Conduct detailed threat assessments and provide recommendations for EW-enabled mission ...

$81K - $108K/yr

Employ Air Force Tactical Data Links (Link-16, JTIDS) in operational scenarios across multiple mission types. * Conduct detailed threat assessments and provide recommendations for EW-enabled mission ...

$74K - $97K/yr

Serve as the Link Unit Manager. Assist in the performance of all datalink operations. As the ... the resolution of data conflicts, and coordinate the entry and exit of units in the tactical ...

$74K - $97K/yr

Serve as the Link Unit Manager. Assist in the performance of all datalink operations. As the ... the resolution of data conflicts, and coordinate the entry and exit of units in the tactical ...

... matter expertise and data driven insights while driving key initiatives forward and holding ... This position requires a balance of tactical execution and strategic leadership, navigating urgent ...

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Tactical Data Link information

See Georgia salary details

$28.7K

$59.8K

$114.4K

How much do tactical data link jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for tactical data link in Georgia is $59,815.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44,800.00 and $68,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a tactical data link?

A Tactical Data Link (TDL) job involves managing, configuring, and troubleshooting secure communication networks that share real-time tactical information between military platforms. Professionals in this field work with systems like Link 16, Link 22, and SADL to ensure interoperability between aircraft, ships, and ground units. Responsibilities often include network planning, system integration, data analysis, and troubleshooting communication issues. TDL specialists play a critical role in maintaining situational awareness and ensuring seamless data exchange for mission success.

What does a tactical data link do?

Professionals working in Tactical Data Link roles are responsible for configuring, monitoring, and maintaining secure data link networks to ensure real-time information sharing between military platforms. Their daily tasks often include troubleshooting connectivity issues, supporting system integration and interoperability testing, and providing technical support to operators and command staff. Collaboration with multidisciplinary teams is common, especially during operational planning and live missions. Keeping up with regular system updates, compliance protocols, and training activities is also a key part of the role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the tactical data link position?

To excel in a Tactical Data Link role, you need a solid background in networking, communications engineering, and military data systems, often supported by a technical degree or relevant military experience. Familiarity with systems such as Link 16, Link 11, and various Tactical Data Link (TDL) interface controls, as well as applicable certifications like CompTIA Security+, is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective teamwork skills are crucial for managing complex data exchanges and troubleshooting issues. These competencies ensure reliable mission-critical communications and seamless interoperability in dynamic defense environments.

What are the most commonly searched types of Tactical Data Link jobs in Georgia?

The most popular types of Tactical Data Link jobs in Georgia are:

What are popular job titles related to Tactical Data Link jobs in Georgia?

For Tactical Data Link jobs in Georgia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Tactical Data Link job openings in Georgia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 92% In-person, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,815 per year, or $28.8 per hour.

Principal Systems Engineer - Link 16

Lynx Software Technologies

Marietta, GA โ€ข On-site

$160K - $200K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago

New


Job description

Job Title: Principal Systems Engineer - Link 16
Location: Marietta, GA
Salary Range: $160,000 - $200,000 + Bonus Eligible
Company Overview
Founded in 2004 with locations in Atlanta, GA, Fort Worth, TX, Denver, CO, & Huntsville, AL, Thompson Software Solutions (TSS) is a mission-driven aerospace and defense software and systems engineering company supporting the U.S. military, defense primes, and commercial space partners. We specialize in the development, integration, test, and deployment of safety & mission-critical software systems that power next-generation aircraft, defense platforms, and space technologies. Our team understands what it takes to modernize complex embedded systems while maintaining the rigor, compliance, and reliability required for mission and safety-critical environments.
As a defense-focused company of highly skilled and dedicated engineers, we take pride in solving complex technical challenges that directly impact national security and operational readiness. We partner closely with customers across the military aviation and space domains to deliver resilient, future-ready solutions with portability, sustainability, and long-term mission success in mind.
Description
We are seeking a Principal Systems Engineer to provide technical leadership for the development, integration, and verification of a MIDS-JTRS block upgrade program. This individual will lead the systems engineering effort across the full product lifecycle, including requirements development, system architecture, interface definition, design, integration, verification, and customer acceptance.
The ideal candidate has deep expertise in Link 16 tactical data link systems, MIDS-JTRS terminals, and complex defense communication systems. This role requires close collaboration with software and hardware teams while serving as a technical leader for the effort.
Basic Requirements
  • Bachelor's degree in Systems Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or a related technical discipline.
  • 10+ years of systems engineering experience supporting complex DoD communications, mission systems, or avionics programs.
  • Deep experience with Link 16 tactical data links and MIDS-JTRS terminals.
  • Experience supporting MIDS-JTRS Block Upgrade or other tactical data link modernization efforts.
  • Demonstrated experience developing, allocating, and managing system and subsystem requirements, including requirements traceability and verification.
  • Experience authoring system specifications, Interface Control Documents (ICDs), system design documentation, and verification documentation.
  • Strong understanding of Link 16 architectures, tactical message standards, network participation groups (NPGs), and terminal operation.
  • Experience leading system integration, verification, validation, and qualification testing.
  • Experience developing and executing system-level, integration, and Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL) test procedures.
  • Demonstrated ability to troubleshoot complex hardware/software integration issues and perform root cause analysis.
  • Experience supporting major engineering reviews including SRR, PDR, CDR, TRR, and customer acceptance events.
  • Strong technical leadership skills with experience leading cross-functional engineering teams.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to obtain a security clearance

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience leading a MIDS-JTRS upgrade program or other Link 16 modernization program.
  • Experience with MIL-STD-6016, STANAG 5516, J-series messages, and tactical data link protocols.
  • Experience with Software Communications Architecture (SCA) and Joint Tactical Radio System (JTRS) technologies.
  • Experience using IBM DOORS for requirements management.
  • Experience supporting airborne mission systems, C4ISR, or tactical communications programs.
  • Experience working in Agile development environments.
  • Experience using Atlassian tools including Jira, Confluence, and Bitbucket.
  • Experience supporting formal customer qualification, certification, and fielding activities.

Sound Exciting? Get in touch today! We have very robust benefits including:
  • Low-cost Medical / Dental / Vision coverage options
  • 401K with generous employer match
  • Responsible Paid Time Off + 11 Paid Holidays
  • Remote work opportunities based on role
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Career growth and professional development opportunities

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.