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Defensive Tactics Instructor Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Defensive Tactics Instructor information

What is a defensive tactics instructor?

A Defensive Tactics Instructor is responsible for training law enforcement, military personnel, or security professionals in techniques for self-defense, control tactics, and suspect apprehension. They teach strategies to de-escalate confrontations, properly use force, and ensure officer and public safety. Instructors typically have expertise in martial arts, law enforcement procedures, and physical conditioning. Their role includes conducting hands-on training, developing curriculum, and staying current with legal and tactical updates.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a defensive tactics instructor?

To thrive as a Defensive Tactics Instructor, you need in-depth knowledge of self-defense techniques, physical fitness, and instructional expertise, usually backed by relevant law enforcement, military, or martial arts certifications. Familiarity with training weapons, safety equipment, use-of-force simulators, and documentation systems is highly beneficial. Excellent communication, patience, and leadership skills help instructors effectively teach diverse groups and manage high-pressure scenarios. These competencies are critical to ensuring safe, impactful training and preparing students for real-world defensive situations.

What are some common challenges faced by defensive tactics instructors?

Defensive Tactics Instructors often face the challenge of adapting their teaching methods to suit trainees with differing physical abilities, backgrounds, and experience levels. They must ensure that all exercises are conducted safely, minimizing the risk of injury while maintaining program effectiveness. Instructors are also responsible for staying updated with evolving best practices, legal standards, and agency policies regarding use-of-force. Teamwork and clear communication are essential, as they frequently collaborate with other instructors and coordinate with department leadership to deliver comprehensive training programs. These aspects make the role both demanding and rewarding for those passionate about safety and professional development.

What are the most commonly searched types of Defensive Tactics Instructor jobs in Indiana?

The most popular types of Defensive Tactics Instructor jobs in Indiana are:

What job categories do people searching Defensive Tactics Instructor jobs in Indiana look for?

The top searched job categories for Defensive Tactics Instructor jobs in Indiana are:

Infographic showing various Defensive Tactics Instructor job openings in Indiana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, and 20% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

2026 Indiana Law Enforcement Executive Director (Agency Head II)

Indiana State Police (IN)

Indianapolis, IN

$140K - $150K/yr

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago


Indiana State Police rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

29th of 45 rated police


Job description

Job Description This position serves as agency head for the Indiana Law Enforcement Academy consisting of approximately 60 employees, facilities and over 300 acres of property. Incumbent is also chief administrative officer for the Indiana Law Enforcement Academy/Law Enforcement Training Board and serves as the chief of ILEA Police Department. This is a complex executive, leadership, management and administrative position requiring significant executive depth.

Position Incumbent has the responsibility for overseeing and establishing the development of basic training for: Police recruits. Continuing education. Advanced training and regional training programs for all law enforcement officers throughout the state, as well as leaders, managers and executives in law enforcement.

Incumbent works with the LETB to set statewide policies for fitness, use of force, vehicle pursuits, defensive tactics and any and all high liability police activity. Job Duties Serves as Executive Director for Indiana Law Enforcement Academy/Law Enforcement Training Board; Represents agency at agency head meetings; Establishes policy for the daily operation of the ILEA facility in Plainfield, Indiana. Establishes policies and procedures relating to eligibility for legislatively mandated training programs to be approved by the LETB.

Serves as consultant for law enforcement agencies on a local, state and national level; Oversees and approves all changes to policies and procedures relating to training, certification & decertification of police officers, deputies and law enforcement personnel and instructors and satellite academies, human resources and facilities management; Screens all decertification cases for presentation to a subcommittee or the entire LETB; Manages capital building projects and prioritizes maintenance decisions; Develops and approves biennium budgets; Testify before budget committee to defend budget and other spending needs; Speaks at statewide academy graduation ceremonies; Maintains relationships with Indiana Chiefs, Sheriffs and Marshals; Job Qualifications Must have at least ten years of full-time paid professional law enforcement experience with five years in serving in an executive or administrative capacity showing the ability to impact and improve organizational performance. Completion of accredited college bachelor's degree but preferably a graduate degree in police administration, business, political science, education or other related fields. Must have experience in curriculum development, lesson plan writing and adult learning techniques as well as leading and managing those who are involved in similar adult learning activities.

Having had experience working with a variety of stakeholders and political entities. Having demonstrated the ability to nurture goodwill and support from the agencies and the public that they serve. Having demonstrated the ability to successfully pursue grants and monetary support for the organizations they have represented in a competitive environment of the public or private sector.

Demonstrated the ability to responsibly administer a multi-million-dollar budget. The State of Indiana is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to recruiting, selecting, developing, and promoting employees based on individual ability and job performance. Reasonable accommodations may be available to enable individuals with disabilities to complete the application and interview process as well as perform the essential functions of a role.

If you require reasonable accommodations to complete this application, you can request assistance by contacting the Lieutenant Ronneal Williams at rwilliams@isp.in.gov.


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