Tactical Data Link (TDL) Field Engineer

Arcata Associates, Inc. is hiring a Tactical Data Link Field Engineer to install, operate, test, and maintain electronic equipment and systems. The role performs operations and maintenance on Joint Data Network/Link 16 equipment and supports system administration, network operations, troubleshooting, and TDL mission operations.

Responsibilities:

• The TDL Field Engineer is responsible to the Joint Interface Control Cell (JICC) watch officer, Joint Data Link Network Operations Officer (JDNO) and Joint Interface Control Officer (JICO) for all system administrator matters for the JICC computer systems. The TDL Field Engineer will coordinate with the appropriate computer activities and units to resolve all computer support issues for the JICC computers
• Assists the JDNO and JICO with the operation and maintenance of the JDN. Assists in the design, development, modification and analysis of Data Link (Link 16/Situational Awareness Data Link) hardware devices and/or systems
• Configures and operates Link-16 host and auxiliary equipment such as Joint Range Extension (JRE), Link monitoring and Management Tool (LMMT), Joint Tactical Radio System (JTRS), Situational Awareness Data link (SADL), and Terminal Housing Case (THC)
• Performs corrective and preventative maintenance on all assigned equipment
• Diagnoses malfunctions in new and existing systems; makes improvements or modifications to produce desired results
• Performs system administration duties, including networking on Unix/Linux equipment
• Performs upgrades and installations to Windows OS equipment
• Performs Link 16 operations to meet customer requirements at a minimum of Joint Tactical Information Distribution Systems (JTIDS) 101 levels
• Works closely with project management, other engineering disciplines, configuration management, quality assurance, and operations support in the design and deployment of systems or enhances
• Supports functions as a network manager for locally operated networks and modify and operate equipment associated with Link-16 as required
• Provides the correct information required to operate in the network (as extracted from the appropriate Operational Tasking Data Links (OPTASK LINK) message) directly to own-unit platforms and to other participants
• Extracts data from an OPTASK LINK message, as defined in Mil-STD 6040, U.S. Message Text Formatting Program and to provide platforms with data essential to operate Tactical Data Links (TDL)
• Align track number blocks with procedures as indicated in the appropriate TDL section of the OPTASK LINK
• Acts as a multi-TDL expert and interfaces between wing TDL participants and other elements of the TDL operational infrastructure
• Interfaces between own unit platforms and the exercise/host manager when wing assets are either participating in an exercise or deploying to participate in TDL operations managed by another unit
• Coordinates unit TDL equipment requirements and the networks to meet local unit requirements, to include interfacing between the wing and higher-level agencies
• Knowledge of and follow procedures mandated in CJCSM 6120.01, Joint Multi Tactical Data Link Operating Procedures when operating TDL's
• Maintain a TDL reference library. The employee shall obtain network descriptions for all networks, to include joint and allied networks, and maintain them in a local TDL network library for use by operations personnel
• Determines requirements for networks and identifies them to the appropriate agency tasked with providing network support
• Manages training requirements applicable to local and subordinate unit link operators
• Travels to remote sites to maintain or operate equipment. May deploy to remote locations in support of Data Link mission operations
• Performs other related duties as required
• Each employee must read, understand, and implement the general and specific operational, safety, quality, and environmental requirements of all plans, procedures, and policies pertaining to their job
• Follows Crypto/COMSEC and IA procedures
• Performs custodian responsibilities for CA/CRL Accounts
• Works with Secure Telephone Equipment data/voice procedures
• Performs operations of Compunetix radio equipment

Requirements:

• Associate's degree in engineering/computer science or other technical discipline or formal academic/vocational/military training and a minimum of 4 or more years of technical/professional experience in the specialty field
• Must possess a valid Nevada driver's license
• Ability to obtain and maintain a Government Security Clearance
• Minimum of 3 years with Tactical Data Link/BC3 experience to include patching in upgrades and software/hardware troubleshooting
• Knowledge of Link 16 operations at a minimum of JTDS 101 and at least four years of applicable Data Link experience
• AJOC (JT-310) course completion highly recommended/desired
• CompTIA A+, Network and Security+ Certification or equivalent
• Must have specific experience in the use of MS Office and Web-enabled applications
• Candidate must possess planning/organizing skills and must be able to work under deadlines
• Employee is expected to routinely cross fields in the completion of somewhat difficult and varied assignments
• Must be capable of updating or repairing computer systems
• Must have a professional knowledge of applicable engineering concepts and principles, and a familiarity with related engineering fields
• Must have practical knowledge of test methods and practices sufficient to perform routine to more complex engineering procedures and to prepare or make minor modifications of standard test procedures or test equipment work instructions
• Must qualify for and maintain a Top-Secret Security Clearance with SCI