Tactical Data Link (TDL) Analyst SME

Position Overview

Leidos’ National Security Sector is seeking a highly skilled Tactical Data Link (TDL) Analyst Subject Matter Expert (SME) to support the ACC/A5JI JINTACCS mission at our customer site in Langley, VA. This role offers a unique opportunity to apply your expertise in tactical combat system interoperability and contribute to shaping the future of USAF data exchange standards.

As a TDL Analyst SME, you will lead research and engineering efforts to enhance Military Standards (MIL-STDs) for tactical data links, ensuring alignment with USAF Information Exchange Requirements (IERs) while minimizing disruption to existing systems.

Key Responsibilities

TDL Standards Development & Engineering

• Research and propose updates to TDL MIL-STDs based on USAF tactical combat system IERs.

• Develop and evaluate bit-level implementation specifications.

• Advise software developers and testers on TDL integration.

• Submit change proposals in accordance with JMTCCB Terms of Reference (TOR).

• Review draft MIL-STDs for accuracy and provide corrections.

• Draft Technical Information Design Plan–Test Edition (TIDP-TE) documents for new TDL capabilities.

• Target: Submit one change proposal every two months (six annually).

Interoperability & Technical Analysis

• Assess interoperability test trouble reports to identify affected systems and evaluate deficiency severity.

• Participate in USAF Technical Analysis Groups and Joint Analysis Review Panels.

• Ensure test results accurately reflect MIL-STD violations and propose interface changes as needed.

Standards Review & Coordination

• Review newly drafted MIL-STDs for incorporation errors and correct bit-level formats and terminology.

• Draft TIDP-TE documents to support formal US MIL-STDs, STANAGs, ATDLPs, and APPs (average: one every five years).

• Review Information Support Plans (ISPs) and coordinate with USAF program offices to support TDL integration.

• Contribute to operational concepts and architectures through IPTs and working groups.

Stakeholder Engagement & Representation

• Attend AFSIB, Joint, Bilateral, and Allied TDL meetings and working groups as directed.

• Analyze external change proposals for impact on USAF systems and joint/allied interoperability.

• Research US and Allied technical documents to identify discrepancies and develop change proposals.

• Represent USAF positions at Defense Standardization Program (DSP) and Defense Information Systems Registry (DISR) meetings.

Documentation & Communication

• Prepare background papers, staff studies, talking papers, and presentation materials as assigned.

​Basic Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree and 8 or more years of relevant experience; or a Master’s degree with 6 or more years of relevant experience. Additional years of experience may be considered in lieu of degree.

• Demonstrated expertise in the Air Force Joint Integrated Tactical Air Control System (JINTACCS).

• Proven ability to analyze complex technical documents independently.

• Experience drafting and submitting TDL MIL-STD interface change proposals.

• Minimum 3 years of participation in JMTCCB or JMSWG Subgroup meetings, including evaluation drafting.

• Minimum 3 years of participation in AFSIB meetings, including evaluation drafting.

• Active Top Secret clearance required.

​Desired Qualifications

• Eligibility for SCI/SAR access.

EIO2024

At Leidos, we don’t want someone who "fits the mold"—we want someone who melts it down and builds something better. This is a role for the restless, the over-caffeinated, the ones who ask, “what’s next?” before the dust settles on “what’s now.”

If you’re already scheming step 20 while everyone else is still debating step 2… good. You’ll fit right in.

Original Posting:

October 20, 2025

For U.S. Positions: While subject to change based on business needs, Leidos reasonably anticipates th