Director of IT Operations, Security & Compliance

LightPath Technologies, Inc. is a leading global provider of precision optics and photonics solutions, serving defense, aerospace, medical, and industrial markets. With decades of expertise and a strong culture of innovation, LightPath designs and manufactures advanced optical components and systems that power some of the world’s most demanding applications. We offer a collaborative, technology-driven environment, opportunities to work on cutting-edge programs, and a comprehensive benefits package that supports our employees’ health, growth, and work-life balance.

We are currently looking for a Compliance Manager to join our team onsite in our Orlando, FL office. We offer a 9/80 work schedule and foster a professional, high-energy culture where employees are empowered to succeed.

LightPath Technologies is seeking an experienced and operationally focused Director of Information Technology to lead the company’s day-to-day IT operations, infrastructure, support services, cybersecurity operations, and technology execution initiatives across multiple business locations.

This role is responsible for ensuring the stability, security, scalability, and operational effectiveness of the company's IT environment while leading internal IT personnel and coordinating with external managed service providers and technology partners. The Director of IT is a hands-on leadership role responsible for translating business needs into reliable operational technology solutions while supporting the organization’s broader cybersecurity, compliance, and business continuity objectives. This position reports directly to executive leadership and works closely with strategic cybersecurity, compliance, and governance advisors.

IT Operations & Infrastructure Leadership

• Lead and oversee daily IT operations across all LightPath locations and business units
• Ensure availability, performance, and reliability of:
• Microsoft 365 environment
• Azure infrastructure and cloud services
• Endpoint management systems
• Network infrastructure
• Voice and communication systems
• Core business applications
• Manage operational uptime and reduce recurring technical issues through proactive IT management
• Oversee hardware lifecycle management, system upgrades, patching, and infrastructure maintenance

IT Team Leadership

• Lead, mentor, and manage internal IT staff and contractors
• Establish operational accountability and performance expectations
• Drive a responsive, customer-service-oriented IT culture
• Prioritize and delegate workload across the IT organization
• Support professional growth and development of IT personnel

Cybersecurity Operations & Risk Management

• Support operational cybersecurity initiatives aligned with company security policies and Zero Trust principles
• Coordinate with managed security providers and internal leadership on:
• Endpoint security
• Threat monitoring
• Incident escalation
• Vulnerability remediation
• Access control management
• Ensure operational adherence to:
• Multi-factor authentication (MFA)
• Identity and access management standards
• Endpoint compliance requirements
• Security patching protocols
• Participate in incident response coordination and remediation activities

Compliance & Audit Readiness

• Support operational readiness efforts associated with:
• CMMC 2.0
• NIST SP 800-171
• ITAR
• SOX and internal audit requirements
• Ensure IT operational processes and documentation remain audit-ready
• Assist with evidence gathering, remediation tracking, and compliance-related operational activities
• Enforce IT operational policies, SOPs, and technical standards

Vendor & MSP Management

• Serve as the operational liaison for managed service providers, security vendors, and technology partners
• Hold vendors accountable to service-level agreements (SLAs) and contractual obligations
• Coordinate escalations, maintenance activities, and operational support efforts
• Participate in vendor evaluations and technology solution assessments

Project & Technology Execution

• Lead implementation and execution of IT infrastructure and operational technology projects
• Coordinate timelines, resources, and deliverables across departments and vendors
• Support operational rollout of:
• Infrastructure upgrades
• Cloud initiatives
• Security improvements
• Enterprise technology solutions
• Ensure projects are delivered efficiently with minimal operational disruption

Operational Planning & Budget Support

• Assist executive leadership with:
• IT operational budgeting
• Hardware/software planning
• Vendor cost management
• Asset lifecycle forecasting
• Identify opportunities for operational efficiencies and cost optimization

Qualifications Experience/Qualifications

Required

• 8–15 years of progressive IT experience
• Minimum 5 years in IT leadership or management roles
• Experience managing IT operations in multi-site organizations
• Experience leading internal IT teams and coordinating third-party vendors/MSPs
• Strong background in infrastructure operations, end-user computing, cloud services, and operational cybersecurity

Technical Expertise

• Strong working knowledge of:
• Microsoft 365 ecosystem
• Microsoft Entra ID / Active Directory
• Microsoft Intune and endpoint management
• Azure infrastructure and cloud administration
• Network infrastructure, VPNs, firewalls, and wireless technologies
• Endpoint security and operational cybersecurity practices
• ITSM platforms and ticketing systems
• Backup, disaster recovery, and business continuity operations

Experience with environments supporting manufacturing, engineering, or regulated industries is strongly preferred.

Security & Compliance Awareness

• Working knowledge of:
• CMMC 2.0
• NIST Cybersecurity Framework
• NIST SP 800-171
• ITAR
• Cybersecurity operational best practices
• Audit support and operational compliance processes

Leadership Competencies

• Strong operational leadership and organizational skills
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
• Excellent communication and cross-functional collaboration skills
• Calm, structured decision-making during incidents or operational challenges
• Ability to balance strategic direction with hands-on operational execution

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in information technology, Cybersecurity, Computer Science, or related field
• Relevant certifications preferred, such as:
• ITIL
• Microsoft certifications
• CompTIA Security+
• CISSP (preferred but not required)
• Azure certifications