Tactical Data Link Engineer

Torch Technologies • Eglin AFB, FL

19h • Onsite

About The Position

Torch Technologies is seeking a Tactical Data Link Engineer to work onsite at Eglin AFB, Florida. The role supports research, development, integration, operation, and modernization of tactical data link hardware and systems in hardware-in-the-loop (HITL) and Live-Virtual-Constructive (LVC) simulation environments. The engineer will work with real tactical equipment and TDL networks, including Link-16, and support simulation test events, gateway operations, and network monitoring. The position also supports NAVWAR-related testing and navigation evaluations in degraded environments.

The position is scheduled Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., with 0–10% travel. A Top-Secret clearance must be obtained and maintained. Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a comprehensive background check. The position is not contingent upon contract award. Relocation assistance is not available.

Requirements

• U.S. citizenship.
• One of the following experience and education combinations: a master’s or doctorate in a related field and 8 years of experience in the respective technical/professional discipline, including 5 years in the DoW; a bachelor’s degree in a related field and 12 years of experience in the discipline, including 5 years in the DoW; or 15 years of directly related experience with proper certifications as described in the PWS labor category performance requirements, including 8 years in the DoW.
• Working knowledge of Link-16 and other tactical data link systems.
• Proficiency with Wireshark and networking protocols, including TCP/IP, UDP, and HTTP.
• Strong understanding of RF transceiver design, propagation modeling, and link budgets.
• Experience with oscilloscopes, spectrum/network analyzers, logic analyzers, and signal generators.
• Familiarity with COMSEC handling and Simple Key Loaders (SKL).
• Experience with MATLAB or similar modeling/simulation tools.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a Top-Secret clearance.

Nice To Haves

• Familiarity with GNSS/INS systems, Alt-Nav, Kalman filtering, and navigation algorithms.
• Knowledge of anti-jam techniques, NAVWAR considerations, and jamming threat environments.
• Familiarity with C++ coding for algorithm development, simulation integration, or hardware-interface support.

Responsibilities

• Operate and monitor tactical hardware, including data link radios, GPS/INS units, and RF front-ends, in HITL simulation environments.
• Integrate hardware with LVC architectures so real equipment can interact with virtual platforms.
• Configure, initialize, and monitor LVC-integrated TDL networks during simulation test events.
• Troubleshoot hardware/software interfaces, timing, and synchronization.
• Operate and analyze Link-16 and similar or related tactical data link systems.
• Research, develop, and modernize TDL HITL emulators to maintain relevance and interoperability with emerging and modernized TDL-enabled weapon systems and UAS platforms.
• Build, decode, and evaluate TDL messages and network architectures.
• Support gateway operations, network initialization, and real-time monitoring during events.
• Present technical findings and recommend system design improvements.
• Assess proposals, requirements, and system documentation for technical feasibility and proper allocation of navigation/TSPI requirements.
• Support NAVWAR-related testing, jamming threat assessments, and degraded-environment navigation evaluations.

Benefits

• Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) participation.
• 401(k) match.
• Medical insurance.
• Dental insurance.
• Vision insurance.
• Life insurance.
• Short-term disability coverage.
• Long-term disability coverage.
• Flexible spending accounts.
• Health Savings Accounts and Health Reimbursement Accounts.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
• Education assistance.
• Paid time off.
• Holidays.
• Competitive salary and a stable, professional work environment.

What This Job Offers

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