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 Links
• MIL-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, UltraScale+, Versal)
• Linux Kernel or Device Driver Development
• Git
• JIRA
• GDB
• Eclipse
• Green Hills MULTI
• Cross-Compilation Toolchains
• DOORS, Rhapsody, or ClearCase
• Current SAP Access

Experience Level

Intermediate Level

This is a Contract position based out of San Diego, CA.

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)

This is a Contract position based out of San Diego, CA.

This position is anticipated to close on Oct 27, 2026.

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 Services, and real-world application, we work with progressive leaders to drive change. That's the power of true partnership. TEKsystems is an Allegis Group company.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regards to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

About TEKsystems and TEKsystems Global Services

Were a leading provider of business and technology services. We accelerate business transformation for our customers. Our expertise in strategy, design, execution and operations unlocks business value through a range of solutions. Were a team of 80,000 strong, working with over 6,000 customers, including 80% of the Fortune 500 across North America, Europe and Asia, who partner with us for our scale, full-stack capabilities and speed. Were strategic thinkers, hands-on collaborators, helping customers capitalize on change and master the momentum of technology. Were building tomorrow by delivering business outcomes and making positive impacts in our global communities. TEKsystems and TEKsystems Global Services are Allegis Group companies. Learn more at TEKsystems.com.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.