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Public Policy Director Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

State of Indiana

Policy Director

Indianapolis, IN

$67K/yr

Join a group of passionate, dedicated public servants to support one of Indiana's most critical ... The Policy Director evaluates Indiana's child welfare practice against child welfare practice in ...

New

Stmalachy

Associate Director

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

$55 - $65/hr

The Indiana Catholic Conference (ICC) is seeking a full-time Associate Director who, working ... Develop and convey policy positions tolegislators, government officials and the public on behalf of ...

New

State of Indiana

Division Director

Indianapolis, IN

$93K/yr

... agency directors, etc.). * Coordinate, review and evaluate the use of appropriate controls and ... Extensive knowledge of State programs and resources, public policy, and program evaluation.

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Public Policy Director information

See Indiana salary details

$45.7K

$120.3K

$177.5K

How much do public policy director jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for public policy director in Indiana is $120,255.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $93,700.00 and $143,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a public policy director do?

A Public Policy Director leads the development and execution of an organization’s policy strategies and advocacy efforts. They monitor legislative and regulatory trends, engage with government officials and stakeholders, and represent their organization’s interests in public forums. Their work often involves researching, drafting position statements, and coordinating with internal teams to ensure alignment with policy goals. Public Policy Directors play a key role in shaping how organizations respond to or influence laws and regulations.

How does a public policy director typically collaborate with other departments and external stakeholders?

A Public Policy Director works closely with various internal teams such as legal, communications, government relations, and executive leadership to align policy strategies with organizational goals. Externally, they frequently engage with government officials, advocacy groups, industry associations, and sometimes the media to represent the organization’s interests and build supportive coalitions. Effective communication and negotiation skills are essential, as the role often involves balancing diverse viewpoints and fostering long-term relationships to advance policy objectives.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a public policy director, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Public Policy Director, you need expertise in policy analysis, legislative processes, and advocacy, often supported by an advanced degree in public policy, law, or a related field. Familiarity with policy research tools, legislative tracking systems, and data analysis software is typically required. Exceptional communication, negotiation, and leadership skills set standout candidates apart. These skills and qualifications are crucial for effectively shaping public policy, influencing stakeholders, and achieving organizational goals.

What are the most commonly searched types of Public Policy jobs in Indiana?

The most popular types of Public Policy jobs in Indiana are:

What are popular job titles related to Public Policy Director jobs in Indiana?

For Public Policy Director jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Public Policy Director jobs in Indiana look for?

The top searched job categories for Public Policy Director jobs in Indiana are:

What cities in Indiana are hiring for Public Policy Director jobs?

Cities in Indiana with the most Public Policy Director job openings:

Public Policy Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Public Policy Director job openings in Indiana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $120,255 per year, or $57.8 per hour.

Policy Director

State of Indiana

Indianapolis, IN

$67K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

New

State Of Indiana rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 189 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

41st of 50 rated states

Job description

 Work for Indiana

Begin a fulfilling career with the State of Indiana by joining one of the largest employers in the state, offering a range of opportunities across 60+ agencies. At the state, you'll find competitive compensation, a robust benefits package and a commitment to work-life balance. Most importantly, you'll have the chance to make a real and measurable impact on the lives of Hoosiers across Indiana.

About the Department of Child Services:

Join a group of passionate, dedicated public servants to support one of Indiana’s most critical missions!

The Department of Child Services helps children who are victims of abuse or neglect and strengthens families through services that focus on family support and preservation.  We pursue permanency for children and families through reunification, guardianship, and adoption.  Our services also encompass foster care, child support, and transitional support for those adjusting to adulthood.  Our culture is built upon our MVP foundation:
 


Mission: Champion Indiana’s future by protecting children and strengthening families with compassion and determination.

Vision: Every child in Indiana thrives in a safe, loving, forever home.

Purpose: Ignite hope.  Cultivate joy.

Role Overview: 

The Policy Director evaluates Indiana's child welfare practice against child welfare practice in other states and current best practice standards. Based upon this comparison study, the Director develops draft policies and procedures for the Indiana Child Welfare Manual and Administrative Manual. 

Salary:

The salary for this position traditionally starts at $67,314.00 but may be commensurate with education and work experience. Use our Compensation Calculator to view the total compensation package.

A Day in the Life:

Responsibilities include:

  • Develop draft policies and procedures for the Indiana Child Welfare Manual and Administrative Manual.  
  • Facilitate draft policies through the policy approval process.  
  • Serve as a policy liaison on various DCS committees and recommend changes in policies based upon committee recommendations.  
  • Provide local office support on policy by answering questions submitted to the DCS policy e-mail account.  
  • Revise and reformat Indiana's Child Welfare Policy Manual and Administrative policies based on best practice, federal and state law, and administrative rules.  
  • Identify gaps in policy and create policies/procedures to eliminate these gaps.  
  • Develop, implement, and maintain a policy workflow and approval process.  
  • Work with policy staff and DCS Deputies to set up and maintain a policy development and approval process.  
  • Ensure that all constituent policy requests receive responses within the proscribed designated timeframes.  Responses must be thorough and accurately address the proposed question.      
  • Represent DCS interest on specialized policy projects that require a child welfare policy subject matter expert.  
  • Serve as an active participant in workgroups, committees, trainings, and panels where child welfare policy expertise is requested or needed.  
  • Manage staff activities and responsibilities within the policy unit.  Conduct monthly staff meetings and informal meetings as needed.   

The job profile is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Other duties, responsibilities, and activities may change or be assigned at any time.

This position is exempt from overtime compensation for additional work hours that may be required to complete essential functions or other assigned work. Exempt employees may work more than 75 hours in a pay period without additional compensation and must report a minimum of 75 hours per pay period of work hours and/or paid leave taken to receive their base biweekly salary.

What You'll Need for Success:

Individuals in this role should minimally be able to articulate or demonstrate the following:

  • Broad knowledge of public child welfare practices; Thorough knowledge of state and federal laws, as well as agency rules and procedures regarding child abuse or neglect;
  • Extensive knowledge of the principles and practice of social work;
  • Working knowledge of child welfare practice in other states and best practice standards or resources and databases containing these materials    
  • Ability to identify best practice in the field of child welfare and translate that into policy that meets the needs of DCS staff and the children and families we serve.
  • Ability to develop and maintain productive working relationships with DCS staff, the community, various governmental agencies, parents and family members; and
  • Ability to prepare accurate, detailed reports, as well as excellent oral and written communication skills; and  
  • Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work collaboratively within a team environment.
  • Ability to perform essential functions with or without reasonable accommodation.

A degree is not required.  However, at least 10 + years of experience applying the outlined knowledge, skills, and abilities in a similar role may be considered.  Completion of relevant education degree(s) may substitute for equivalent years of experience.

Supervisory Responsibilities/Direct Reports:
This role may serve as a team lead for an assigned work group.

Benefits of Employment with the State of Indiana:

The State of Indiana offers a comprehensive benefits package for full-time employees that includes: 

  • Three (3) medical plan options (including RX coverage) as well as vision and dental plans
  • Wellness Rewards Program: Complete wellness activities to earn gift card rewards
  • Health savings account, which includes bi-weekly state contribution
  • Deferred compensation 457(b) account (similar to 401(k) plan) with employer match
  • Two (2) fully-funded pension plan options
  • A robust, comprehensive program of leave policies covering a variety of employee needs, including but not limited to:
    • 150 hours of paid New Parent Leave and up to eight weeks of paid Childbirth Recovery Leave for eligible mothers
    • Up to 15 hours of paid community service leave
    • Combined 180 hours of paid vacation, personal, and sick leave time off
    • 12 paid holidays, 14 in election years
  • Education Reimbursement Program
  • Group life insurance
  • Referral Bonus program
  • Employee assistance program that allows for covered behavioral health visits
  • Qualified employer for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program
  • Free Parking for most positions
  • Free LinkedIn Learning access

Equal Employment Opportunity:

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 Indiana State Personnel Department at jobs@spd.IN.gov.

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