ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Public Policy Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Hcfl

Public Safety Specialist

Dale, IN · On-site

$21.92 - $34.38/hr

... policies. The position serves as a visible public safety presence while supporting emergency management, access control, special events, and daily campus operations. Public Safety Specialists work ...

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsPublic Policy JobsPublic Policy Jobs in Indiana

Public Policy information

See Indiana salary details

$30.9K

$72.7K

$109K

How much do public policy jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for public policy in Indiana is $72,660.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,700.00 and $84,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a public policy professional do?

Public policy professionals research, analyze, and develop policies that address societal issues and guide government action. They work in various sectors, including government agencies, non-profit organizations, think tanks, and private companies. Their responsibilities often include conducting policy analysis, advising lawmakers, engaging with stakeholders, and advocating for policy changes. The goal is to create effective solutions that promote the public good and respond to community needs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a public policy professional?

To thrive as a Public Policy professional, you need strong analytical skills, research abilities, and a solid educational background in public administration, political science, or a related field. Familiarity with policy analysis tools, statistical software (such as STATA or SPSS), and experience with legislative tracking systems are typically required. Excellent communication, critical thinking, and stakeholder engagement skills set top performers apart in this field. These competencies are essential for developing effective policies, influencing decision-makers, and ensuring policies address societal needs.

What are some common challenges faced by public policy professionals?

Professionals in public policy often encounter challenges such as balancing diverse stakeholder interests, navigating complex regulatory environments, and responding to rapidly shifting political landscapes. Collaboration across departments and with external organizations is essential, requiring strong communication and negotiation skills. Additionally, public policy professionals must stay current on legislative updates and be adaptable in developing evidence-based recommendations under tight deadlines.

What is the difference between Public Policy vs Policy Analyst?

AspectPublic PolicyPolicy Analyst
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Public Policy, Political Science, or related fieldsBachelor's or Master's in Public Policy, Political Science, or related fields
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, think tanks, NGOsGovernment agencies, consulting firms, research organizations
Employer & Industry UsageUsed broadly in public sector and advocacy groupsCommonly employed in policy research and analysis roles

Public Policy and Policy Analyst roles often require similar educational backgrounds and are found in similar work environments. Public Policy is a broader field focusing on developing and evaluating policies, while Policy Analysts typically conduct research and provide recommendations within that framework. Both roles are essential in shaping and analyzing policies in government and nonprofit sectors.

How to break into public policy?

Breaking into public policy typically involves obtaining a relevant degree such as political science, public administration, or law, and gaining experience through internships, volunteering, or entry-level positions. Building skills in research, analysis, and communication, as well as networking with professionals in the field, can improve job prospects in public policy roles.

Is public policy in high demand?

Public policy professionals are in steady demand due to the need for government agencies, non-profits, and advocacy groups to develop and analyze policies. Employment opportunities often require strong research, communication skills, and knowledge of government processes, with demand influenced by political and economic factors.

What are the careers in public policy?

Careers in public policy include roles such as policy analyst, government affairs specialist, legislative assistant, public affairs manager, and policy advisor. These positions often require strong research, analytical, and communication skills, and may involve working for government agencies, think tanks, non-profit organizations, or advocacy groups.

What is a public policy job?

A public policy job involves analyzing, developing, and advocating for policies that address societal issues, often within government agencies, think tanks, or advocacy organizations. These roles typically require strong research, communication, and analytical skills, and may involve policy drafting, stakeholder engagement, and data analysis.

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 jobs in Indiana?

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

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

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

What cities in Indiana are hiring for Public Policy jobs?

Cities in Indiana with the most Public Policy job openings:

Public Policy jobs near you
Infographic showing various Public Policy 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 $72,660 per year, or $34.9 per hour.

Statewide Safety Director

State of Indiana

Indianapolis, IN • On-site

$93K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

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 Indiana Department of Transportation: 
The Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) provides a dynamic workplace that serves Indiana citizens, improves our state’s quality of life, and enhances its economic opportunity. INDOT has a number of innovative programs and projects, including Public-Private Partnerships, Green Initiatives, and cutting-edge uses of materials and assets. As part of the State of Indiana, INDOT offers a competitive total compensation package, as well as outstanding work/life balance. Whether you are an established professional in the transportation field or just starting your career, INDOT has exciting and challenging opportunities for you.

Role Overview:
INDOT's statewide safety director oversees the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of safety programs that protect employees and organizational assets. Key responsibilities include guiding safety policy creation, coordinating cross‑agency initiatives, and ensuring compliance with state and federal regulations.

Location:
This position is with INDOT's Central Office in Indianapolis.

Salary:

The salary for this position traditionally starts at $93,002.00 but may be commensurate with education and work experience. Use our Compensation Calculator to view the total compensation package.

A Day in the Life:

The essential functions of this role are as follows:

  • Review and evaluate organizational effectiveness, goal determination, and strategic planning, etc., makes recommendations for improvement.
  • Develop and coordinate plans and policies, resources, and mission as well as goals, vision and expectations of agency or program.
  • Provide guidance to agencies and the public regarding applicable laws and rules.
  • Supervise subordinate personnel including hiring, determining workload, and delegating assignments, training, monitoring, and evaluating performance, and initiating corrective or disciplinary action.
  • Monitor agency or program budget including revenues, expenditures, and budget projections.
  • Communicate with news and other media. responds to media questions or requests in an appropriate public relations manner.
  • Coordinate with other government officials on planning issues (i.e. federal and/or state agency directors, etc.).  
  • Coordinate, review and evaluate the use of appropriate controls and standards for the agency.

The job description 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 which 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:

  • Extensive knowledge of agency and/or organizational program(s) and business practices.
  • Extensive knowledge of State programs and resources, public policy, and program evaluation.
  • Ability to develop and/or measure program outcomes.
  • Ability to create and maintain strong working relationships with key public and private government and business leaders.
  • Ability to identify problems, determine accuracy and relevance of information, and use sound judgment to generate and evaluate alternatives and to make recommendations.
  • Ability to work with internal and external customers to assess needs, provide assistance, resolve problems, and satisfy expectations.
  • Outstanding interpersonal skills with the ability to build relationships, establish credibility, and influence leaders at all levels.
  • Make sound, well-informed, and objective decisions. Perceives the impact and implications of decisions.
  • Ability to identify problems. determine accuracy and relevance of information, and to use sound judgment to generate and evaluate alternatives and to make recommendations.

A degree is not required.

Individuals should have the ability to perform essential functions with or without reasonable accommodation.

Supervisory Responsibilities/Direct Reports:
This role may provide direct supervision for one or more staff members.

Benefits of Employment with the State of Indiana:

The State of Indiana offers a comprehensive benefit package for full-time employees which 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 on 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.

What State Of Indiana employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply