Principal Data Links & Communication Engineer

Company: Applied Research Solutions
Location: Bedford
Posted on: April 1, 2026

Job Description:

Applied Research Solutions is seeking candidates for the role of a Principal Data Links & Communication Engineer located at Hanscom AFB, Bedford, MA. The Aerial Networks Division (AFLCMC/HNA) primary mission acquires, fields, and sustains networks, integrated information systems, enterprise services, and applications to support the Global Information Grid (GIG) capabilities. These systems facilitate communication between land, naval, air, and space warfare forces. The Division develops capabilities for voice, video, and data networks focused on joint and coalition warfighter needs to enable worldwide net-centric operations. Why Work with us? Applied Research Solutions (ARS) is respected as a world-class provider of technically integrated solutions as we deliver premier talent and technology across our focused markets for unparalleled, continuous mission support. Awarded a Best Places to Work nominee since 2020, ARS recognizes that without our career- driven, loyal professionals, we would not be able to deliver state-of-the-art results for our mission partners. We firmly believe that prioritizing our employees is of the upmost importance. We provide a culture where our employees are challenged to meet their career goals and aspirations, while still obtaining a work/life balance. ARS employees are motivated through our industry competitive benefits package, our awards and recognition program, and personalized attention from ARS Senior Managers. Desired Qualifications 5 Years experience in software design and software requirements development Proficiency in C++ an 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). Additional qualifications Provide knowledge and experience in the development, integration, testing, and deployment of Air Force systems and their associated data links, to include definition of data link interoperability, interfaces, and verification and test assessment requirements. This includes interfacing with the Federal, Department of Defense (DoD), United States Air Force (USAF), United States Army, and Joint communities to ensure the data link communications capability complies with the applicable Federal Aviation Administration, Defense Information Systems Agency (DISA), National Security Agency (NSA), Service Acquisition Executive, Joint Mission Planning System (JMPS), Damage Assessment and Casualty Report business and technical rules. Provide resources with knowledge and experience in Developmental and Operational test and Evaluation at the sub-system and system level. This includes interface with Air Combat Command, Air Force Command and Control Integration Center, Joint Interoperability Test Command, Space and Naval Warfare Systems Command, and all levels of the organizations that develop and manage the C3 and encryption key distribution infrastructure for controlling a networked system, providing technical advice on C4 issues, including pre-launch conditioning and planning, aircraft-weapon pre- and post-release communications, and real-time targeting. Advise and assist the program Chief Engineer, Integrated Product Team (IPT) Leads, Program Managers (PMs), and joint combined test team customers on performance, schedule, and cost issues with respect to planning, communications, and control. Perform other duties as assigned. The candidate may be called upon for knowledge and experience in the following specific areas: Combat Net Radio (CNR) Test and Demonstration: includes engineering support for interoperability testing weapon configurations with Threshold and Objective launch platforms/controllers and ground Joint Terminal Attack Controllers over Ultra-High Frequency (UHF) CNR and Link 16 communications. 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) Qualifications/Technical Experience Requirements: Must be a US citizen Active Top Secret Security Clearance The expected annual salary range is $180k - $192k. Salary is dependent upon the role and associated responsibilities, candidates 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. This contractor and subcontractor shall abide by the requirements of 41 CFR 60-741.5(a). This regulation prohibits discrimination against qualified individuals based on disability and requires affirmative action by covered prime contractors and subcontractors to employ and advance in employment qualified individuals with disabilities. This contractor and subcontractor shall abide by the requirements of 41 CFR 60-300.5(a). This regulation prohibits discrimination against qualified protected veterans and requires affirmative action by covered contractors and subcontractors to employ and advance in employment qualified protected veterans.

Keywords: Applied Research Solutions, Nantucket , Principal Data Links & Communication Engineer, Engineering , Bedford, Massachusetts