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Tactical Data Link Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Agile Defense

Tactical Data link (TDL) Test & Evaluation Analyst - Intermediate Location: Fort Huachuca, AZ Clearance Level: Secret, Must Have Clearance to Start Required Certification(s): Requires at least 1 ...

Agile Defense

Tactical Data link (TDL) Test & Evaluation Analyst - Senior Location: Fort Huachuca, AZ Clearance Level: Secret, Must Have Clearance to Start Required Certification(s): Requires at least 1 ...

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$34K

$70.8K

$135.5K

How much do tactical data link jobs pay per year?

As of May 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for tactical data link in the United States is $70,839.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53,000.00 and $81,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Tactical Data Link job?

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Tactical Data Link position, and why are they important?

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 typical daily responsibilities for someone working in a Tactical Data Link role?

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 jobs make 5000 a week without a degree?

Roles related to tactical data links typically require specialized military training or technical certifications rather than a traditional degree. High-paying positions in defense or cybersecurity fields may reach or exceed $5,000 weekly for experienced professionals with relevant skills, security clearances, or certifications such as CISSP or CompTIA Security+. These jobs often involve working with complex communication systems, data analysis, or network security in government or defense sectors.
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Tactical Data Link jobs near you
Infographic showing various Tactical Data Link job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 69% Full Time, 23% Part Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $70,839 per year, or $34.1 per hour.

Lead, Software Engineer - Tactical Data Link

L3HHCM20

San Diego, CA

$135K - $250.50K/yr

Other

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday

Job description

Job Title: Lead, Software Engineering (Tactical Data Link)
Job Code: 37847
Job Location: San Diego or Carlsbad, California
Schedule: 9/80 (Every other Friday off!)

Job Description:
We are seeking a Lead Software Engineer to lead software development efforts in our Tactical Data Link (TDL) Support Software product line. This candidate will play a pivotal role in shaping technical strategies, mentoring the engineering team, and architecting future enhancements to TDL Support Software applications.
This role involves developing long-term technical visions to extend the design for future products and systems. The position requires onsite work and an active DoD Secret clearance.

Essential Functions:
   Lead and Architect software development for Windows/Linux software applications using  C/C++.
   Develop in multi-threaded codebases that handle multiple socket connections.
   Create software based on Interface Control or Specification Documents.
   Establish coding standards, design patterns, and automated analysis/testing pipelines that enforce memory safety.
   Guide the adoption of modern programming practices, tools, and frameworks..
   Collaborate with cross-functional teams (systems engineering, cybersecurity, testing, and integration) to ensure requirements traceability and compliance.
   Provide technical leadership and mentorship to the software engineering team, fostering a culture of secure, modern, and maintainable code.
   Actively participate in technical conversations across L3Harris to help develop/recommend strategies and articulate a forward-looking vision to extend the design for TDL Support Products. 
   Serve as the primary technical interface with stakeholders, government customers, and leadership on compliance progress and risk mitigation.
   Strong communication skills with the ability to brief executives and government stakeholders on technical topics.
   Strong knowledge in using both Linux and Windows operating systems (including command line) for daily software development tasks.
   Solid understanding of software development processes (i.e. Waterfall, Agile/SCRUM, etc.)
   Strong understanding with software configuration management tools (i.e. Git, BitBucket, JIRA, Confluence, Jenkins, Artifactory etc.)
   Availablilty to travel. 

Qualifications:
Bachelor's Degree and minimum 9 years of prior relevant experience. Graduate Degree and a minimum of 7 years of prior related experience. In lieu of a degree, minimum of 13 years of prior related experience.

9+ years of professional experience in software engineering, including at least 8 years in C/C++  application development.

5 years experience in Tactical Data Links (e.g., Link 16, JREAP-C)

Ability to gain secret clearance

Preferred Additional Skills:
   Understanding of Tactical Data Links (e.g., Link 16, JREAP-C)
   Proficiency with Makefiles and embedded build tools (e.g., cross-compilers, linkers, debuggers).
   Continuous Integration & Development (CI/CD) experience.
   Proficient in Groovy programming and experienced in working with Jenkins.
   Familiar with C# and understands both the .NET Framework and .NET Core.
   Experienced in using the DevExpress toolset for creating user interfaces.
   4 years of leadership experience managing small-to-mid-sized software teams.
   Familiarity with DoD software standards

In compliance with pay transparency requirements, the salary range for this role in California, is $135,000 - 250,500. This is not a guarantee of compensation or salary, as final offer amount may vary based on factors including but not limited to experience and geographic location. L3Harris also offers a variety of benefits, including health and disability insurance, 401(k) match, flexible spending accounts, EAP, education assistance, parental leave, paid time off, and company-paid holidays. The specific programs and options available to an employee may vary depending on date of hire, schedule type, and the applicability of collective bargaining agreements.

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