Data Links & Communication Engineer SME

Astrion - Hanscom Air Force Base, MA

Full-time - Senior

Hanscom Air Force Base, MA

Crop Production

About the position

Astrion is seeking a Data Links & Communication Engineer Subject Matter Expert (SME) to join our team at Hanscom AFB, MA. This position is integral to the Tactical Data Networks Enterprise (TDNE) program office within the Aerial Networks Division (AFLCMC/HNA). The selected candidate will provide expert-level engineering support for data links and communication systems, specifically focusing on the Second-Generation Anti-Jam Tactical Ultra High Frequency (UHF) Radio (SATURN) program. The role involves interfacing with various federal and military organizations to ensure compliance with communication capabilities and standards set by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Defense Information Systems Agency (DISA), and National Security Agency (NSA). The Data Links & Communication Engineer SME will be responsible for advising and assisting program leadership on performance, schedule, and cost issues related to planning, communications, and control. This includes providing technical advice on C4 issues, pre-launch conditioning, and real-time targeting communications. The position requires a deep understanding of Combat Net Radio (CNR) systems, interoperability testing, and tactical link implementations, as well as experience in documentation and coordination of various military communication systems. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in defense acquisition policies and the ability to work proactively with minimal supervision. They will be expected to produce high-quality acquisition and program documentation, including briefings and plans, while effectively communicating with team members and stakeholders. This full-time position may require up to 10% CONUS travel and necessitates a Top Secret security clearance.

Responsibilities

• Interface with Federal, Department of Defense (DoD), United States Air Force (USAF), United States Army, and Joint communities to ensure data link communications capability complies with applicable regulations.
• Provide resources with knowledge and experience in Developmental and Operational test and Evaluation at the sub-system and system level.
• 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.
• Provide technical advice on C4 issues, including pre-launch conditioning and planning, aircraft-weapon pre- and post-release communications, and real-time targeting.
• Provide knowledge and experience in Combat Net Radio (CNR) definition and documentation, Test and Demonstration engineering support for interoperability testing, and Joint Concept of Employment (CONEMP) development.

Requirements

• MA/MS degree and 15 years of experience (5 years DoD).
• Ability to support agile communications initiative and activities.
• Familiarity with the development and documentation of Joint Service approaches for integrating weapons into existing tactical data link (TDL) environments.
• Knowledge of defense acquisition policies outlined in DoDI 5000.02.
• Ability to assimilate information quickly, communicate effectively, and remain organized.

Nice-to-haves

• Superior competency in Microsoft Office (Word, PowerPoint, SharePoint, Teams) and Adobe (Acrobat).

Benefits

• Competitive salaries
• Continuing education assistance
• Professional development allotment
• Multiple healthcare benefits packages
• 401K with employer matching
• Paid time off (PTO) along with a federally recognized holiday schedule