Datalink Subject Matter Expert

SAIC; San Diego (CA); On-site; USD 110,000 - 170,000; 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 role requiring up to 10% travel, working with cross-functional teams to ensure mission success.

The candidate will have extensive datalink experience, JTRS terminals, COMSEC devices, and related tactical communication technologies, with DoD security clearances and strong troubleshooting skills.

Qualifications

• U.S. citizen with active Secret clearance.
• Bachelor's degree plus 2+ years experience or 4 years substitution for degree.
• Experience with datalinks, JTRS terminals, COMSEC, and DoD systems.

Responsibilities

• Provide hands-on expertise with datalinks, JTRS terminals, and tactical comms tech.
• Configure, maintain, and troubleshoot communication terminals, COMSEC devices, and tactical radios.
• Utilize and support JRE, SPIDR, and LMMT software platforms.
• Perform system-level operational test and evaluation for integration.
• Implement and maintain COMSEC measures per DoD standards.
• Troubleshoot complex issues across software, hardware, and networks.
• Collaborate with team to deliver mission-critical solutions in high-demand scenarios.

Skills

Datalinks

JTRS

COMSEC

Tactical radios

Troubleshooting

Teamwork

DoD standards

Education

Bachelor's degree

Tools

JRE

SPIDR

LMMT

Job 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 communication 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 communication 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.

REQUIREMENTS:

• Bachelors and two (2) years or more experience; Masters and 0 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.