Director of Operations

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 Director of Operations to join our team onsite in our Plano, TX office. We offer a 9/80 work schedule and foster a professional, high-energy culture where employees are empowered to succeed.

Responsible for the daily operations of the company, including thin film production, camera and optics production, supply chain management, warehousing, facilities operations and quality, as they pertain to daily operation of the company. Develop and manage a plan to increase production capacities, and onboard new products as they become available from Engineering and oversee hiring to meet goals.

Responsibilities:

Operational Leadership

• Provide strategic and tactical leadership across manufacturing, production, supply chain, and logistics functions
• Drive operational performance to meet or exceed safety, quality, delivery, and cost (SQDC) objectives
• Lead daily operations with a focus on throughput, yield improvement, and on-time delivery

Strategic Planning & Execution

• Develop and execute operational strategies aligned with corporate goals and growth initiatives
• Translate business objectives into actionable operational plans and measurable outcomes
• Support capacity planning, capital investments, and facility expansion as needed

Continuous Improvement

• Champion Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and continuous improvement initiatives across all operational areas
• Identify and implement process improvements to enhance efficiency, reduce waste, and optimize costs
• Establish and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) and operational dashboards

Financial & Business Management

• Develop and manage operating budgets, forecasts, and cost controls
• Drive margin improvement through productivity gains, cost reduction, and process optimization
• Partner with Finance to analyze performance and support strategic decision-making

Compliance & Risk Management

• Ensure compliance with all applicable regulations, including ITAR , EAR , and other U.S. government contracting requirements
• Maintain adherence to industry standards such as ISO and applicable military specifications
• Promote a culture of safety, compliance, and ethical business practices

Leadership & Talent Development

• Build, lead, and develop high-performing teams across multiple operational disciplines
• Establish succession planning, workforce development, and leadership training programs
• Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Partner with Engineering on new product introduction (NPI), process development, and design for manufacturability (DFM)
• Collaborate with Sales and Program Management to ensure customer requirements and delivery commitments are achieved
• Work closely with Quality to ensure compliance with customer and regulatory standards

Qualifications

Education & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Operations Management, Business, or related field required; Master's degree preferred
• Minimum 10-15 years of progressive operations leadership experience , including senior-level management
• Experience in optics, photonics, precision manufacturing, or similar high-tech environments strongly preferred
• Experience supporting defense, aerospace, or government contracts required

Technical & Regulatory Expertise

• Strong knowledge of ITAR/EAR compliance , government contracting requirements, and export controls
• Familiarity with ISO standards, MIL specifications , and regulated manufacturing environments
• Experience with ERP/MRP systems and data-driven decision-making

Leadership Competencies

• Proven ability to lead large, cross-functional teams in a fast-paced, high-growth environment
• Strong strategic thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making capabilities
• Excellent communication and executive presence

Education & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Operations Management, Business, or related field required; Master's degree preferred
• Minimum 10-15 years of progressive operations leadership experience, including senior-level management
• Experience in optics, photonics, precision manufacturing, or similar high-tech environments strongly preferred
• Experience supporting defense, aerospace, or government contracts required

Technical & Regulatory Expertise

• Strong knowledge of ITAR/EAR compliance, government contracting requirements, and export controls
• Familiarity with ISO standards, MIL specifications, and regulated manufacturing environments
• Experience with ERP/MRP systems and data-driven decision-making

Leadership Competencies

• Proven ability to lead large, cross-functional teams in a fast-paced, high-growth environment
• Strong strategic thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making capabilities
• Excellent communication and executive presence