IT Director

Director Of Information TechnologyLightPath 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.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.Responsibilities:IT Operations & Infrastructure LeadershipLead and oversee daily IT operations across all LightPath locations and business unitsEnsure availability, performance, and reliability of:Microsoft 365 environmentAzure infrastructure and cloud servicesEndpoint management systemsNetwork infrastructureVoice and communication systemsCore business applicationsManage operational uptime and reduce recurring technical issues through proactive IT managementOversee hardware lifecycle management, system upgrades, patching, and infrastructure maintenanceIT Team LeadershipLead, mentor, and manage internal IT staff and contractorsEstablish operational accountability and performance expectationsDrive a responsive, customer-service-oriented IT culturePrioritize and delegate workload across the IT organizationSupport professional growth and development of IT personnelCybersecurity Operations & Risk ManagementSupport operational cybersecurity initiatives aligned with company security policies and Zero Trust principlesCoordinate with managed security providers and internal leadership on:Endpoint securityThreat monitoringIncident escalationVulnerability remediationAccess control managementEnsure operational adherence to:Multi-factor authentication (MFA)Identity and access management standardsEndpoint compliance requirementsSecurity patching protocolsParticipate in incident response coordination and remediation activitiesCompliance & Audit ReadinessSupport operational readiness efforts associated with:CMMC 2.0NIST SP 800-171ITARSOX and internal audit requirementsEnsure IT operational processes and documentation remain audit-readyAssist with evidence gathering, remediation tracking, and compliance-related operational activitiesEnforce IT operational policies, SOPs, and technical standardsVendor & MSP ManagementServe as the operational liaison for managed service providers, security vendors, and technology partnersHold vendors accountable to service-level agreements (SLAs) and contractual obligationsCoordinate escalations, maintenance activities, and operational support effortsParticipate in vendor evaluations and technology solution assessmentsProject & Technology ExecutionLead implementation and execution of IT infrastructure and operational technology projectsCoordinate timelines, resources, and deliverables across departments and vendorsSupport operational rollout of:Infrastructure upgradesCloud initiativesSecurity improvementsEnterprise technology solutionsEnsure projects are delivered efficiently with minimal operational disruptionOperational Planning & Budget SupportAssist executive leadership with:IT operational budgetingHardware/software planningVendor cost managementAsset lifecycle forecastingIdentify opportunities for operational efficiencies and cost optimizationRequired8–15 years of progressive IT experienceMinimum 5 years in IT leadership or management rolesExperience managing IT operations in multi-site organizationsExperience leading internal IT teams and coordinating third-party vendors/MSPsStrong background in infrastructure operations, end-user computing, cloud services, and operational cybersecurityTechnical ExpertiseStrong working knowledge of:Microsoft 365 ecosystemMicrosoft Entra ID / Active DirectoryMicrosoft Intune and endpoint managementAzure infrastructure and cloud administrationNetwork infrastructure, VPNs, firewalls, and wireless technologiesEndpoint security and operational cybersecurity practicesITSM platforms and ticketing systemsBackup, disaster recovery, and business continuity operationsExperience with environments supporting manufacturing, engineering, or regulated industries is strongly preferred.Security & Compliance AwarenessWorking knowledge of:CMMC 2.0NIST Cybersecurity FrameworkNIST SP 800-171ITARCybersecurity operational best practicesAudit support and operational compliance processesLeadership CompetenciesStrong operational leadership and organizational skillsAbility to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environmentExcellent communication and cross-functional collaboration skillsCalm, structured decision-making during incidents or operational challengesAbility to balance strategic direction with hands-on operational executionPreferred QualificationsBachelor's degree in information technology, Cybersecurity, Computer Science, or related fieldRelevant certifications preferred, such as:ITILMicrosoft certificationsCompTIA Security+CISSP (preferred but not required)Azure certifications