Embedded Software Engineer III - Tactical Data Link

Position: Embedded Software Engineer III - Tactical Data Link 16
Description:

Modern tactical networks depend on far more than simply displaying or consuming information. Behind every Link 16 message, track update, and network participant is embedded software that enables communication, timing, synchronization, message processing, and real-time data exchange across mission-critical platforms.

We are seeking an engineer who understands the technology powering tactical communications at its core.

This opportunity is focused on the development of embedded software that supports Link 16 and Tactical Data Link systems operating in real-time environments. The ideal candidate has experience working directly within the software stack that enables these communication capabilities, with a strong understanding of embedded architectures, RTOS environments, networking, protocol implementation, and system integration.

You will work alongside software, systems, hardware, and integration teams to develop and enhance capabilities that allow tactical communication systems to operate reliably in demanding operational environments. Success in this role requires an engineer who understands not only how embedded software interacts with hardware, but also how timing, protocols, and real-time processing drive effective datalink performance.

What You'll Be Doing:

Design, develop, integrate, and test embedded software supporting Link 16 and Tactical Data Link capabilities.

Develop software in real-time and embedded operating environments.

Support communication system functionality, message processing, network participation, timing, and protocol implementation.

Analyze and decompose system requirements into software design and architecture solutions.

Troubleshoot complex interoperability, integration, and performance issues.

Collaborate with Systems Engineering, Hardware, Integration & Test, and Digital Engineering teams.

Participate in Agile development activities, peer reviews, and technical design discussions.

Contribute throughout the full software development lifecycle from design through deployment.

Core Requirements:

Core Development Experience Embedded C/C++RTOS Development Multithreading Low -Level Software Development Software Architecture & Design Linux Embedded Development Device Drivers Hardware/Software Integration Network Protocol Implementation Troubleshooting & Debugging Link 16 Specific Link 16 Integration Link 16 Software Development Tactical Data LinksMIL-STD-6016

Tactical Communications Terminal Integration Message Processing Network Participation Groups (NPGs)
Tactical Radio Software Additional Skills &

Qualifications:

Tactical Radios or Software Defined Radios (SDR)
Xilinx Platforms (Zynq, Ultra Scale+, Versal)
Linux Kernel or Device Driver Development

GitJIRAGDBEclipse

Green Hills MULTI Cross-Compilation ToolchainsDOORS, Rhapsody, or Clear Case Current  SAP Access Experience Level Intermediate Level Job Type & Location This is a Contract position based out of San Diego, CA.Pay and Benefits The pay range for this position is $50.00 - $80.00/hr individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job
classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be
subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits
available for this temporary role may include the following:

Medical, dental & vision
Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
401(k) Retirement Plan Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
Short and long-term disability
Health Spending Account (HSA)
Transportation benefits
Employee Assistance Program
Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)
Job Type & Location This is a Contract position based out of San Diego, CA.Final date to receive applications

This position is anticipated to close on Oct 27, 2026.Workplace Type This is a fully onsite position in San Diego,CA.About TEKsystems

We're partners in transformation. We help clients activate ideas and solutions to take advantage of a new world of opportunity. We are a team of 80,000 strong, working with over 6,000 clients, including 80% of the Fortune 500, across North America, Europe and Asia. As an industry leader in Full-Stack Technology Services, Talent…