Start Your Career
as a Mishawaka Police Officer
Thank you for your interest in joining the Mishawaka Police Department. The Mishawaka Police Department is proud to offer competitive compensation and progressive scheduling. As of January 1, 2024, the department transitioned to 12-hour shifts, and first-class patrolmen (PFCs) now earn $90,000 annually after three years of service. As a result of this strategic change, the Mishawaka Police Department is now among the highest-paid law enforcement agencies in the State of Indiana. Officers have many benefits and opportunities available to them, including generous insurance and retirement plans, along with various specialty divisions and training which ensure our officers can operate effectively and support our focus on public safety. Public safety is Mishawaka’s top priority.
According to U.S. Census Bureau estimates, Mishawaka is the 18th largest city in Indiana. Unlike many communities, Mishawaka has experienced consistent growth in population, capital investment, and assessed value over several years.
To apply or to learn more about career opportunities with the Mishawaka Police Department, please contact our recruiter, Yadira Fernandez
Opportunities and Benefits
Mishawaka Police Officers have an abundance of opportunities for growth and career advancement. Officers can serve in a variety of specialized units, including Major Crimes, Neighborhood Enforcement, K-9, and S.W.A.T. These units rely on motivated and dedicated individuals committed to public service.
Mishawaka Police Department offers a comprehensive salary and benefits package to our Officers. Follow the link below to learn more about the Mishawaka Police Benefits.
Our Hiring Process
Members of the Mishawaka Police Department are expected to represent the City of Mishawaka as positive role models within the community. We seek individuals with good moral character, integrity and professionalism.
MPD Lateral Transfer Program
The Mishawaka Police Department accepts applications year-round from lateral officers that are currently eligible to be certified police officers in Indiana. A summary of the Lateral Transfer Program is outlined below.
- Individuals who have completed the Indiana Law Enforcement Academy (Tier 1) and have law enforcement experience with another agency.
- Lateral transfers with at least three years of experience with another agency will be promoted to First Class Patrol Officer pay upon appointment. The lateral transfer hire will receive the current vacation time allotted to the rank of First Class Patrol Officer upon the completion of an approved FTO program.
- Lateral transfers with less than three years of experience will be promoted to First Class Patrol Officer on the third anniversary of the date of appointment as a certified law enforcement officer.
- Lateral transfers are eligible to maintain their current years of ILEA-certified service concerning vacation benefits outlined in the current collective bargaining agreement. Vacation selection will still be based on department seniority.
- Lateral transfers are provided with all required uniforms and all necessary equipment upon hire; in addition, lateral transfers will receive the clothing and equipment allowance as listed in the current collective bargaining agreement.
Please contact the Mishawaka Police Department recruiter, Yadira Fernandez for additional information regarding our lateral transfer program and its requirements.
Mishawaka Police
Recruiter Email: mpdrecruiter@mishawaka.in.gov
Recruiter Phone Number: (574) 208-5550
Chief of Police: Alex Arendt
Monday – Friday
8:00 am – 5:00 pm
English 
Spanish