Tactical Data Link Analyst

SAIC • Little Rock, AR

1d • Onsite

About The Position

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 selected candidate will serve as the on-site Subject Matter Expert and primary technical representative, interfacing directly with senior government and joint military personnel on significant technical matters requiring coordination between organizations.

The role supports assessment of existing data link architectures, communications infrastructure, command and control systems, interoperability, modernization recommendations, systems integration planning, tactics, techniques and procedures, and operational training. It also supports Link 16 and multi-TDL network planning, configuration, coordination, deconfliction, training, testing, exercises, and mission debriefs to improve interoperability across the Joint Data Network in accordance with applicable Air Force and Joint guidance.

The analyst ensures unit platform interfaces are configured, initialized, and operational in accordance with the published OPTASKLINK, and coordinates with the 19th Airlift Wing, theater or exercise JICO, and JICC regarding platform status changes, connectivity issues, and equipment outages that may affect participation in the Multi-TDL Network. The role also supports daily flying operations, testing, training, exercises, spectrum management, Link 16 frequency coordination, training materials, after-action analysis, and training for local and subordinate unit link managers.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Systems Engineering, or a related technical discipline and 5+ years of experience; an equivalent combination of relevant technical training and demonstrated experience will be considered.
• Active Secret clearance.
• Working knowledge of Link 16 network architecture, TDMA, and TSDF management.
• Proficiency scheduling Link 16 operations through LPDS to manage TSDF limits in accordance with AFMAN 13-116.
• Familiarity with MTN operations, including platform interface configuration and initialization in accordance with published OPTASKLINK.
• Knowledge of Joint Data Network integration and the Common Tactical Picture.
• 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 before 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 Link 16 deconfliction.
• Experience supporting spectrum management and frequency coordination for Link 16 operations in the 960–1215 MHz band in accordance with AFMAN 13-116.
• Experience providing TDL network and unit platform interface integration support, including network-design analysis and resolution of connectivity, configuration, and equipment issues.

Responsibilities

• Assess data link architectures, communications infrastructure, command and control systems, and interoperability; recommend modernization approaches and integration plans.
• Support Link 16 and multi-TDL network planning, configuration, coordination, deconfliction, training, testing, exercise execution, and mission debriefs.
• Identify capability gaps and recommend approaches to improve data exchange, network performance, and integration with Joint and Air Force mission systems.
• Ensure unit platform interfaces are configured, initialized, and operational in accordance with published OPTASKLINK.
• Coordinate with the 19th Airlift Wing, theater or exercise JICO, and JICC to report platform status changes, connectivity issues, and equipment outages affecting MTN participation.
• Provide operational planning, coordination, and integration support for daily flying operations, testing, training, and exercises.
• Support TDL network planning, frequency coordination, scheduling and deconfliction, operational-status coordination, capability-gap identification, and corrective-action recommendations.
• Support spectrum management and frequency coordination for Link 16 operations in accordance with applicable restrictions and AFMAN 13-116.
• Schedule planned Link 16 operations through LPDS to manage TSDF limits and coordinate with Joint Staff J-7 for deconfliction when local deconfliction is not achievable.
• Develop and refine tactics, techniques, and procedures; prepare training materials; provide technical support during operational events; conduct after-action analysis; and support training for local and subordinate unit link managers.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior