Datalink Subject Matter Expert

SAIC; San Diego (CA); On-site; USD 80,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

SAIC in San Diego, CA is seeking a Datalink Subject Matter Expert to support USAF JTEP, PocketJ, and LAK programs on-site. This role requires extensive knowledge of datalinks, COMSEC, and tactical communications systems, with travel up to 10%.

The successful candidate will configure, troubleshoot, and maintain terminals, JTRS, and related software such as JRE, SPIDR, and LMMT, and ensure DoD security standards are met. US citizenship and an active Secret clearance are required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree and 5+ years experience; Master's degree with 3+ years experience; alternate 4 years of experience in lieu of degree.
• U.S. citizenship and an active Secret clearance to start.
• Proven expertise in datalinks and advanced troubleshooting.
• Hands-on experience with JTRS terminals, COMSEC devices, and tactical software.

Responsibilities

• Provide hands-on expertise with datalinks, JTRS terminals, and related tactical tech.
• Configure, maintain, and troubleshoot communication terminals and COMSEC devices.
• Support software platforms including JRE, SPIDR, and LMMT.
• Perform system-level testing and ensure secure DoD communications.

Skills

Datalinks

JTRS terminals

COMSEC devices

Tactical radios

Troubleshooting

Team collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree

Master's degree

Tools

JRE

SPIDR

LMMT

Job description

Job ID: 2617960

Location: San Diego, CA, US

Date Posted: 2026-10-14

Category: Information Technology

Subcategory: Technical Svcs

Schedule: Full-Time

Shift: Day Job

Travel: Yes - 10% of the time

Minimum Clearance Required: Secret

Clearance Level Must Be Able to Obtain: None

Potential for Remote Work: ORA_ON_SITE

DESCRIPTION

We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Datalink Subject Matter Expert to join our team supporting the USAF JTEP, PocketJ, and LAK programs in San Diego, CA. This role requires a seasoned professional with extensive knowledge of datalinks, communications security, and tactical communications systems. The successful candidate will work ON-SITE (not a remote opportunity) and collaborate closely with cross-functional teams to ensure mission success.

Must be able to travel up to 10%

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Provide hands-on expertise in working with datalinks, Joint Tactical Radio Systems (JTRS) terminals, and related tactical communications technologies.
• Configure, maintain, and troubleshoot communication terminals, COMSEC devices, tactical radios, and supporting systems.
• Utilize and support software platforms, including JRE (Joint Range Extension), SPIDR (Scalable Portable Integrated Data Router), and LMMT (Link Monitoring and Management Tool).
• Perform system-level operational test and evaluation, ensuring seamless integration across systems.
• Implement and maintain COMSEC measures, ensuring communications are secure and compliant with DoD standards.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex issues across a range of software, hardware, and network systems related to tactical communications.
• Collaborate and coordinate with team members to deliver mission-critical solutions in high-demand scenarios.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelors and five (5) years or more experience; Masters and Three (3) years related experience. 4 additional years of experience in lieu of degree
• Must be a U.S. Citizen
• Must have an Active Secret clearance to start
• Proven expertise in datalinks, including advanced troubleshooting and problem-solving abilities.
• Hands-on experience with JTRS terminals, COMSEC devices, tactical radios, JRE, SPIDR, and LMMT software technologies.
• Exceptional analytical and technical troubleshooting skills applicable to military communication systems.
• Strong ability to work effectively in a team-oriented environment.
• Excellent communication skills and a collaborative mindset aligned with DoD teamwork principles.

DESIRED SKILLS

• Prior experience with USAF JTEP, PocketJ, or LAK programs.
• Certification in communications or IT-related disciplines (e.g., Security+, Network+).
• Knowledge of DoD network configurations and operational environment.
• Operational Experience within a JICC as a JICO, ICO, ICT or military datalink maintainer.

Target salary range: $80,001 - $120,000. The estimate displayed represents the typical salary range for this position based on experience and other factors.