Location: Eglin AFB, FL | Work Mode: On-site (15% Travel) | Focus: DoD Developmental Test & Evaluation | Posting date/time : February 21, 2026
Job Description
Role Summary
This position supports the 46 Test Squadron at Eglin AFB as a vital member of the software development team within the Data Links Test Flight. You will be responsible for the development and maintenance of software systems critical to DoD Developmental Test & Evaluation (DT&E) events.
Key Responsibilities:
- Provide Software Engineering support for tactical data link testing and evaluation.
- Follow Agile and SDLC principles to develop Windows-based software in Object-Oriented languages (C#, VB.NET).
- Develop and maintain XSD Schema format files and rulesets.
- Provide hands-on software support to end-users and develop technical documentation.
- Support Test Execution, focusing on fault isolation, data collection, and resolution of complex technical problems.
- Attend briefings and provide expert recommendations to system stakeholders and DoD leadership.
Qualifications & Requirements:
- Education/Experience:
- BS in STEM + 3-5 years experience OR
- AS in STEM + 7-9 years experience OR
- HS Diploma + 10-13 years experience
- Security: U.S. Citizenship required. Must obtain an interim Secret clearance and maintain a Top Secret (SSBI) clearance.
- Certification: Current CompTIA Security+ or equivalent.
- Technical: Proficiency in .NET (C#, VB.NET); understanding of basic networking (VLANs, Firewalls).
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Position: Mission-Critical Data Link Developer
Core Technology: C#, VB.NET, XSD Schema, MIL-STD Protocols (Link 16, SADL)
Strategic Focus: Tactical Interoperability & Field Test Support
✅ Job Summary and Focus:
This role at COLSA is for a Battlefield Connectivity Engineer. In the world of the 46 Test Squadron, software is not just an application; it is the vital link that allows aircraft and command centers to share a common operational picture. The focus is on Tactical Data Link (TDL) Interoperability—ensuring that protocols like Link 16, SADL, and JREAP function flawlessly under combat-simulated test conditions. You will be tasked with building the tools that monitor and validate these “Digital Conversations” (MIL-STD-6016/3011), making sure that our warfighters have a reliable, unhackable stream of data during critical missions.
📌 Key ATS Resume Keywords:
Software Developer, COLSA, Eglin AFB, 46 Test Squadron, Tactical Data Links, Link 16, SADL, JREAP, MIL-STD-6016, MIL-STD-1553, .NET, C#, VB.NET, XSD Schema, Agile, Scrum, CompTIA Security+, Top Secret Clearance, SSBI, Software Development Lifecycle, SDLC, DT&E.
💰 Compensation and Industry Demographics:
While the exact salary is based on individualized factors, market data for Software Engineers at Eglin AFB in 2026 indicates a median annual pay of $134,736, with top-tier earners in specialized defense roles reaching $187,230.
In the context of the U.S. Defense Software and STEM workforce for 2025-2026:
- The “Security Clearance” Premium: In 2026, engineers holding an active Top Secret (SSBI) clearance command a 20-25% salary premium over non-cleared counterparts due to the extreme scarcity of eligible talent.
- Racial Representation in U.S. Software Engineering: Based on 2025 federal labor data for DoD contractors:
- White: 48.5%
- Asian: 34.0%
- Hispanic or Latino: 8.1%
- Black or African American: 4.4%
- Other/Multiracial: 5.0%
- Veteran Inclusion: COLSA is a noted “Family of Professionals,” with veterans making up approximately 18% of all new hires in the aerospace and defense sector as of 2025. This environment values the mission-first mindset often found in former service members.
- Gender in Defense Tech: Women represent approximately 22% of the software engineering workforce in the U.S. Defense sector. Roles within the 46 Test Squadron are increasingly emphasizing diverse “Special Access Program” teams to foster innovation in Electronic Warfare and Data Evolution.
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