IT Director

Job DetailsJob Location: LightPath Technologies - Orlando, FL 32826Position Type: Full TimeEducation Level: 4 Year DegreeTravel Percentage: NegligibleJob Shift: First ShiftJob Category: 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. We are currently looking for an experienced and operationally focused Director of Information Technology to provide 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 leading internal IT personnel and coordinating with external managed service providers and technology partners, and ensuring a stable, secure global environment based on Microsoft Azure and Microsoft systems.  This is a hands-on technical leader responsible for translating business needs into reliable operational technology solutions. Responsibilities: 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 As defined by the CIO, support operational cybersecurity initiatives aligned with company security policies and Zero Trust principles Ensure operational adherence to: Multi-factor authentication (MFA) Identity and access management standards Endpoint compliance requirements Security patching protocols Endpoint security Threat monitoring Incident escalation Vulnerability remediation Access control management Participate in incident response coordination and remediation activities Compliance & Audit Readiness 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 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 Experience/Qualifications: Required 6–10 years of progressive IT experience Minimum 4 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 technical background in infrastructure operations, end-user computing, cloud services, and operational cybersecurity to be able to mentor/guide the IT as necessary 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 Security & Compliance Awareness Working knowledge of: 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 Preferred Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in information technology, Cybersecurity, Computer Science, or related field Relevant certifications preferred, such as: ITIL Microsoft certifications CompTIA Security+ Azure certifications QualificationsExperience/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