IT Director

LightPath Technologies; Orlando (FL); On-site; USD 150,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

LightPath Technologies, Inc. is seeking an experienced Director of Information Technology to lead day-to-day IT operations, infrastructure, and cybersecurity across multiple locations. The role translates business needs into reliable technology solutions while guiding internal staff and coordinating with MSPs and partners.

You will drive uptime, security, compliance (CMMC 2.0, NIST 800-171, SOX), and IT budgeting, fostering a service-oriented IT culture and ensuring audit readiness.

Qualifications

• 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.

Responsibilities

• Lead daily IT operations across all LightPath locations and business units.
• Ensure availability and reliability of Azure infrastructure, network, voice systems, and core business apps.
• Oversee hardware lifecycle, upgrades, patching, and maintenance; mentor IT staff.
• Drive cybersecurity initiatives aligned with Zero Trust and vendor coordination.
• Support compliance with CMMC 2.0, NIST SP 800-171 and SOX; ensure audit readiness.

Skills

IT leadership

Multi-site operations

Cybersecurity leadership

Vendor management

Budget planning

Education

Bachelor's degree in Information Technology or related

Tools

Microsoft 365

Intune

Azure

Networking

VPNs

Firewalls

Wireless

Endpoint security

ITSM

Backup & Disaster Recovery

Job description

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.

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 Leadership

• Lead and oversee daily IT operations across all LightPath locations and business units
• Ensure availability, performance, and reliability of:
• Azure infrastructure and cloud services
• 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
• 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:
• Threat monitoring
• Vulnerability remediation
• Access control management
• Ensure operational adherence to:
• 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
• 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
• 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
• Lead implementation and execution of IT infrastructure and operational technology projects
• Coordinate timelines, resources, and deliverables across departments and vendors
• Support operational rollout of:
• 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
• Identify opportunities for operational efficiencies and cost optimization

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 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
• Cybersecurity operational best practices
• Audit support and operational compliance processes
• 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: