ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Police Director Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

City of Elkhart

Chief of Police

Elkhart, IN · On-site

DEPARTMENT: Police Department POSITION: Chief of Police DIVISION: Administration STATUS ... Direct and oversee the department's pursuit and maintenance of accreditation through the Commission ...

Parkview Health

Lead/Police Sergeant

Fort Wayne, IN · On-site

The Lead/Police Sergeant will be directly responsible for the following: The use of resources, both ... Able to work any shift, weekends, or holidays as directed. Must be flexible to work other sites as ...

Parkview Health

Police Officer

Fort Wayne, IN · On-site

... directed under IC 16-18-4. Typical functions include but are not limited to the following: foot and vehicle patrol, escort functions, collecting data for the preparation of crime and other types of ...

Parkview Health

Lead/Police Sergeant

Fort Wayne, IN · On-site

$15.53 - $23.29/hr

The Lead/Police Sergeant will be directly responsible for the following: The use of resources, both ... Able to work any shift, weekends, or holidays as directed. Must be flexible to work other sites as ...

Parkview Health

Lead/Police Sergeant

Fort Wayne, IN · On-site

The Lead/Police Sergeant will be directly responsible for the following: The use of resources, both ... Able to work any shift, weekends, or holidays as directed. Must be flexible to work other sites as ...

DePauw University

Police Officer

Greencastle, IN

The DePauw Police Officer is a fully sworn law enforcement officer per Indiana code 21-17-5. ... Other duties as may be assigned by the Director. POSITION QUALIFICATIONS Competency Statement(s ...

DePauw University

Police Officer

Greencastle, IN · On-site

The DePauw Police Officer is a fully sworn law enforcement officer per Indiana code 21-17-5. ... the Director. POSITION QUALIFICATIONS Competency Statement(s) • Accountability - Ability to ...

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsPolice JobsPolice Director JobsPolice Director Jobs in Indiana

Police Director information

See Indiana salary details

$19.7K

$71.3K

$158.9K

How much do police director jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for police director in Indiana is $71,296.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39,372.00 and $89,056.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Police Directors?

Police Directors are senior law enforcement officials responsible for overseeing the management and administration of a police department or agency. Their duties typically include setting departmental policies, supervising high-ranking officers, managing budgets, and ensuring the effective enforcement of laws and regulations. Police Directors often serve as the public face of the department, working with community leaders and government officials to address public safety concerns. Unlike police chiefs, who may sometimes focus more on operational leadership, Police Directors often emphasize the strategic and administrative aspects of law enforcement.

What is the highest paying job in the police department?

The highest paying position in a police department is typically the Police Chief or Police Commissioner, who oversees the entire department and often earns the highest salary. These roles require extensive experience, leadership skills, and often a background in law enforcement or public administration.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Police Director, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Police Director, you need extensive law enforcement experience, strong leadership abilities, and typically a bachelor's degree in criminal justice or a related field. Familiarity with crime analysis software, law enforcement databases, and incident reporting systems is essential, along with relevant certifications in police administration or leadership. Excellent decision-making, crisis management, and communication skills distinguish top-performing Police Directors. These competencies are crucial for ensuring effective department operations, maintaining public safety, and building community trust.

Is 27 too late to become a cop?

The age at which someone can become a police officer varies by department, but many agencies accept applicants up to their early 30s. Being 27 is generally not too late to pursue a law enforcement career, and prior life experience can be an asset. Candidates typically need a high school diploma or GED, pass physical and background tests, and complete police academy training.

What are some common challenges faced by a Police Director in managing a diverse law enforcement team?

A Police Director often navigates challenges such as uniting officers with varied backgrounds and experiences, addressing differing perspectives on policing strategies, and ensuring consistent adherence to department policies. Balancing administrative duties with on-the-ground leadership requires strong communication and conflict resolution skills. Additionally, adapting to evolving community expectations and integrating new technologies or procedures can present ongoing hurdles, making continuous professional development and team engagement crucial.

What is the difference between Police Director vs Police Chief?

AspectPolice DirectorPolice Chief
Required CredentialsLaw enforcement experience, leadership skills, possibly advanced degreesLaw enforcement experience, leadership skills, often similar certifications
Work EnvironmentTypically oversees multiple departments or entire police agencies, strategic planningManages daily operations of a specific police department, community engagement
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in city, county, or state agencies; more common in larger jurisdictionsCommon in municipal police departments across various regions
Search & Comparison IntentPeople comparing leadership roles in law enforcementIndividuals seeking info on police department leadership positions

While both roles involve law enforcement leadership, a Police Director typically oversees broader agency strategies and multiple departments, whereas a Police Chief manages daily operations within a specific police department. The choice depends on the size of the jurisdiction and organizational structure.

Why are police officers leaving?

Police officers leave the profession due to factors such as job stress, concerns about safety, administrative challenges, and changes in community relations. High turnover rates can also be driven by burnout, low pay, and limited career advancement opportunities.

What does director mean in police?

In a police context, a director is a high-ranking official responsible for overseeing police operations, strategic planning, and administrative functions within a law enforcement agency. The role often requires leadership skills, law enforcement experience, and sometimes specific certifications or degrees. The director sets policies, manages personnel, and ensures the agency meets its objectives.
What are the most commonly searched types of Police jobs in Indiana? The most popular types of Police jobs in Indiana are:
What cities in Indiana are hiring for Police Director jobs? Cities in Indiana with the most Police Director job openings:
Police Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Police Director job openings in Indiana as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $71,296 per year, or $34.3 per hour.
Chief of Police

Chief of Police

City of Elkhart

Elkhart, IN • On-site

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago

City Of Elkhart (Indiana) rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

338th of 832 rated public administrative organizations

Job description

CITY OF ELKHART : JOB DESCRIPTION
DEPARTMENT: Police Department
POSITION: Chief of Police
DIVISION: Administration
STATUS : Full- Time
CATEGORY : Salary, "Negotiable"
FLSA : Exempt
REPORTS TO : Mayor
JOB SUMMARY
Serves as the chief executive officer of the Police Department, responsible for the strategic leadership, administration, and overall performance of all departmental operations. The Chief of Police provides vision and direction to ensure effective, community-oriented policing; maintains the highest standards of professionalism and accountability; and leads organizational initiatives including accreditation, training, and data-driven decision-making to enhance public safety and trust.
PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Provide executive leadership and strategic direction for all departmental functions, including patrol, investigations, administration, and support services.
  • Lead and institutionalize a community policing philosophy, fostering strong partnerships with residents, businesses, and community organizations to proactively address public safety concerns.
  • Direct and oversee the department's pursuit and maintenance of accreditation through the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA), ensuring compliance with nationally recognized best practices and continuous improvement standards.
  • Maintain a modern, effective records management system, ensuring accuracy, transparency, compliance with legal requirements, and the use of data to inform operational decisions.
  • Evaluate and continuously improve the comprehensive training program that supports officer development, leadership succession, legal compliance, and evolving policing practices.
  • Oversee and ensure an effective, fair, and objective internal affairs function, including the timely investigation of complaints, consistent application of discipline, and development of corrective action recommendations. Promote a balanced accountability system that also recognizes and rewards exemplary performance, reinforcing professionalism, integrity, and high-quality service.
  • Oversee preparation and administration of the department budget, ensuring responsible fiscal management and alignment with strategic priorities.
  • Develop, implement, and enforce departmental policies, procedures, and standard operating guidelines consistent with federal, state, and local laws and best practices.
  • Direct organizational planning, including staffing, deployment strategies, and operational priorities, to optimize service delivery and efficiency.
  • Prepare and present reports, recommendations, and updates to the Board of Safety, Merit Commission, and City Council.
  • Promote a culture of accountability, professionalism, and ethical conduct throughout the department.

OTHER DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Evaluate departmental performance through data analysis, performance metrics, and outcome-based measures; implement improvements as needed.
  • Serve as the department's primary liaison with community groups, elected officials, and partner agencies at the local, regional, state, and federal levels.
  • Represent the department in professional organizations, conferences, and intergovernmental initiatives.
  • Lead public communication and transparency efforts, including public safety education and community engagement initiatives.
  • Identify and pursue grants and external funding opportunities to support departmental priorities, including training, technology, and accreditation.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
  • Bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice, Public Administration, or a related field, or equivalent professional experience required; Master's degree preferred.
  • Law Enforcement Academy Graduate (Indiana or equivalent). (Civilians may be considered with exceptional related experience)
  • Progressive law enforcement experience with demonstrated leadership at the command staff level.
  • Demonstrated experience or strong familiarity with CALEA accreditation, community policing strategies, and training program development is strongly preferred.
  • Valid Indiana Driver's License required

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES
  • Comprehensive knowledge of modern police administration, organizational leadership, and best practices in law enforcement.
  • Strong understanding of community-oriented policing and the ability to build trust and legitimacy within diverse communities.
  • Knowledge of accreditation standards, policy development, and risk management practices.
  • Proficiency in data-driven decision-making, records management systems, and performance analytics.
  • Ability to design, implement, and evaluate effective training programs and leadership development initiatives.
  • Strong financial management and budgeting skills.
  • Excellent interpersonal, communication, and public presentation skills.
  • Ability to lead organizational change, manage complex operations, and build a cohesive leadership team.
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees, elected officials, community stakeholders, and the public.

PHYSICAL, MENTAL, AND VISUAL SKILLS
  • Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing.
  • Ability to analyze complex situations, interpret data, and make sound decisions.
  • Ability to attend meetings, presentations, training sessions, and community events.
  • Ability to operate standard office equipment and technology.
  • Ability to review reports, policies, budgets, and operational documents.
  • Ability to remain mentally alert and exercise sound judgment during emergency and crisis situations.

WORKING CONDITIONS
  • Work is primarily performed in an office environment with frequent interaction with employees, elected officials, community members, and external agencies.
  • Position requires attendance at evening meetings, public events, emergency operations, and community functions.
  • May be required to respond during emergencies, critical incidents, or natural disasters.
  • Frequent travel throughout the City and occasional regional or statewide travel may be required.

POST OFFER TESTING REQUIREMENTS
  • The City of Elkhart is a Drug Free Workplace. Therefore, successfully passing a post offer drug screen is required (random drug testing may be conducted after employment).
  • Background checks producing acceptable BMV and criminal history reports required.

POLICY STATEMENT
  • The incumbent is required to possess the knowledge, skills, and abilities, and the physical, mental, and visual skills described in this job description to perform the principal duties, responsibilities and essential job functions.
  • This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by the incumbent. Principal duties and responsibilities are intended to describe those functions that are essential to the performance of this job and other duties and responsibilities include those that are considered incidental or secondary to the overall purpose of this job.
  • This job description does not state or imply that the above are the only duties and responsibilities assigned to this position. Employee holding this position will be required to perform any other job-related duties as requested by the Mayor. All requirements are subject to possible modification to reasonably accommodate individuals with a disability.

What City Of Elkhart (Indiana) employees say

Pay

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply