Principal Data Link & Communications Engineer; Link

Principal Data Link & Communications Engineer (Link 22)

Job Category: Engineer

Requisition Number: PRINC
004427

Posted: April 21, 2026

Employment Type: Full-Time

Location: Hanscom AFB, Bedford, MA

Hanscom AFB, MA
200 Hanscom Dr
Bedford, MA 01730, USA

Applied Research Solutions is seeking a Principal Data Links & Communication Engineer located at Hanscom AFB, Bedford, MA. The role requires Link 22 and tactical data link engineering experience as well as a degree in Engineering.

• Provide knowledge and experience in the development, integration, testing, and deployment of Air Force systems and their associated data links, including definition of data link interoperability, interfaces, and verification and test assessment requirements.
• Participate in developmental and operational test and evaluation at the subsystem and system level, interfacing with multiple military and federal agencies.
• Advise and assist the program Chief Engineer, Integrated Product Team leads, Program Managers, and joint combined test team customers on performance, schedule, and cost issues related to planning, communications, and control.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

• Must be a US citizen.
• Active Top‑Secret Security Clearance.
• 5 years experience in software design and software requirements development.
• Proficiency in C++ and Java programming languages and development frameworks.
• Proficiency in MBSE modeling, languages, and tools (DODAF, SysML, UML, Cameo).
• Networking and embedded mission systems experience.
• Familiarity with government acquisition planning, tailoring and documentation (Acquisition Strategy Plan, Statement of Work, System Engineering Plan, User Agreements, Product Roadmap).
• Knowledge and experience in development, integration, testing, and deployment of Air Force systems and their associated data links, interfacing with the Federal, Department of Defense (DoD), United States Air Force (USAF), United States Army, and Joint communities.
• Knowledge and experience in developmental and operational test and evaluation at the sub‑system and system level.
• Experience or knowledge in the following specific areas:
  Test and Demonstration engineering support for interoperability testing, Joint Concept of Employment (CONEMP), Cryptologic Systems, Link 16 Networking, Interface Control, Digitally Aided Close Air Support (DACAS), United States Message Text Format (USMTF), Joint Interoperability of Tactical Command and Control Systems (JINTACCS).

The expected annual salary range: $160k - $185k. Salary is dependent upon the role, associated responsibilities, candidate experience and qualifications to include education/training and key skills.

All positions at Applied Research Solutions are subject to background investigations. Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a background investigation including criminal history and identity check.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities. This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.