Communications Specialist II (ATDL / COMSEC / Cryptographic Systems)

COLSA; San Diego (CA); On-site; USD 83,000 - 100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical

Dental

Vision

Life Insurance

Short-Term Disability

Long-Term Disability

401(k) with company match

Flexible Spending Accounts

Employee Assistance Program

Paid Time Off

Holidays

Job summary

COLSA Corporation in San Diego is seeking a Communications Specialist II to support ATDL systems, cryptographic integration, COMSEC, and network interoperability in domestic and international environments. The role emphasizes hands-on configuration, fielding, and sustainment of secure communications.

Applicants should have TS clearance eligibility, experience with Link 16 and MIDS JTRS, and be ready for CONUS/OCONUS travel; the job offers a comprehensive benefits package and a dedicated team in

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Minimum 2 years experience supporting Tactical Data Links, COMSEC, and cryptographic systems.
• Active Top Secret clearance with SCI eligibility.
• Experience with ATDL systems such as Link 16 and MIDS JTRS.
• Experience with COMSEC material handling and CMS processes.
• Expertise in COMSEC, EKMS, CMS, and secure communications practices.
• CONUS/OCONUS travel required.

Responsibilities

• Support integration and configuration of ATDL cryptographic components within operational systems.
• Provide subject matter expertise in COMSEC, EKMS, CMS, and secure communications practices.
• Evaluate Tactical Data Link network architectures and provide topology/interoperability recommendations.
• Support fielding, installation, and operational activation of communication systems.
• Diagnose and resolve system, configuration, and interoperability issues in lab and field environments.
• Analyze system performance and identify deficiencies and optimization opportunities.
• Provide technical advisory support to stakeholders and operational users.
• Deliver hands-on training and operational guidance to system operators and maintainers.
• Participate in technical data calls, working groups, and coordination efforts.
• Review and provide feedback on technical documentation; safeguard cryptographic material per COMSEC requirements.

Skills

Tactical Data Links

COMSEC

CMS practices

Secure communications

Security clearance

Education

High school diploma

Tools

ATDL cryptographic components

Link 16

MIDS JTRS

EKMS / CMS processes

Job description

Tracking Code

9775-987

Posted Date

9/11/2026

Job Location

San Diego, California

Location of Position

San Diego, California

Work Arrangement

On Site: 100%

Position Type

Full-Time/Regular

Clearance Required?

Yes

Level of Clearance Required

Top Secret

CONUS/OCONUS Travel Required: The Communications Specialist II provides technical and operational support for Advanced Tactical Data Link (ATDL) systems with a focus on cryptographic integration, Communications Security (COMSEC), and network interoperability. This role supports the configuration, fielding, and sustainment of secure communication systems across domestic and international environments. The position requires strong technical expertise in Tactical Data Links, COMSEC practices, and network architecture, as well as the ability to troubleshoot system issues, provide training, and ensure operational effectiveness in joint and coalition environments.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Support integration and configuration of ATDL cryptographic components within operational systems
• Provide subject matter expertise in COMSEC, EKMS, CMS, and secure communications practices
• Evaluate Tactical Data Link network architectures and provide network topology and interoperability recommendations
• Support fielding, installation, and operational activation of communication systems
• Diagnose and resolve system, configuration, and interoperability issues in lab and field environments
• Analyze system performance and identify deficiencies and optimization opportunities
• Provide technical advisory support to stakeholders and operational users
• Deliver hands‑on training and operational guidance to system operators and maintainers
• Participate in technical data calls, working groups, and coordination efforts
• Review and provide feedback on technical documentation and procedures Ensure proper handling and safeguarding of cryptographic material in accordance with COMSEC requirements.

At COLSA, people are our most valuable resource and centered at our core value. We invite you to unite your talents with opportunity and be a part of our “Family of Professionals!” Learn about our employee-centric culture and benefits https://www.colsa.com/culture_benefits/

Required Experience

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Minimum of 2 years of experience supporting Tactical Data Links, COMSEC, and cryptographic communication systems
• Active Top Secret (TS) clearance required with eligibility for SCI access
• Experience with ATDL systems such as Link 16 and MIDS JTRS
• Experience with COMSEC material handling and CMS processes
• Expertise in COMSEC, EKMS, CMS, and secure communications practices
• Experience and familiarity with keymat load configurations based on platform and mission
• Experience supporting system fielding, configuration, and operational troubleshooting
• CONUS/OCONUS travel required

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience supporting joint and coalition communication environments
• Familiarity with Naval or DoD operational communication systems
• Experience supporting OCONUS deployments or foreign military sales efforts
• Experience as an instructor, comfortable in front of an audience
• Prior military or operational communications experience

Applicant selected will be subject to a government security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information. COLSA Corporation is an Equal Opportunity Employer, Minorities/Females/Veterans/Disabled. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin.

Minimum Salary

$83,000.00

Maximum Salary

$100,000.00

Salary Type

Annually

The salary range, if referenced, represents a good faith estimate. COLSA considers various factors when determining base salary offers, but not limited to, location, the role, function and associated responsibilities, a candidate’s particular combination of education, knowledge, skills, competencies, and experience, as well as contract-specific affordability and organizational requirements.

COLSA offers a comprehensive and customizeable benefits program which includes Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, Short-Term Disability, Long-Term Disability, Accidental Death & Dismemberment, Supplemental Income Protection Programs, 401(k) with company match, Flexible Spending Accounts, Employee Assistance Program, Education & Certification Reimbursement, Employee Discount Program, Paid Time Off and Holidays.

• Medical
• Dental
• Vision
• Life Insurance
• Short-Term Disability
• Long-Term Disability
• Accidental Death & Dismemberment
• Supplemental Income Protection Programs
• 401(k) with company match
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Employee Assistance Program
• Education & Certification Reimbursement
• Employee Discount Program
• Paid Time Off
• Holidays

This position will be posted for a minimum of 3 business days. If a candidate has not been selected at that time, it will continue to be posted until a suitable candidate is selected or the position is closed.