Start Your Career with MPD
The Mishawaka Police Department is looking for individuals of strong moral character, integrity and professionalism to serve as positive role models in our community. We also welcome lateral transfers, including out-of-state officers, who are ready to bring experience and dedication to our team.
Now among the highest-paid police departments in Indiana, as of January 1, 2024, MPD has moved to 12-hour shifts and our first-class patrolmen (PFC) are making $90,000 annually, after 3 years of service.

Opportunities & Benefits
With opportunities to work in uniform road patrol, specialized units like K-9, S.W.A.T. and neighborhood enforcement, or in civilian roles such as dispatch, records, crossing guard, chaplain or grant specialist, there’s a place for you on our team.

Career Advancement Opportunities

Competitive Salary & Benefits Package

Health, Dental & Vision Insurance

Vacations, Sick Leave & Overtime

Clothing/Equipment Allowance

IN Public Retirement System Membership
Lateral Transfer Program
The Mishawaka Police Department accepts applications year-round from certified Indiana law enforcement officers through our Lateral Transfer Program. Explore eligibility requirements and program benefits below.
- Lateral Officers who have completed the Indiana Law Enforcement Academy (Tier 1) and have law enforcement experience with another agency or are eligible to obtain an I.L.E.A. Law Enforcement Waiver.
- Mishawaka Police Department honors the lateral officers’ continuous years of services for pay and vacation benefits outlined in the current collective bargaining agreement. Vacation selection will be based on department seniority.
- Lateral transfers with at least three years or more of experience with another agency will receive the current pay and vacation time allotted for their years of service as a First-Class Patrol Officer.
- Lateral transfers with less than three years of experience from another agency will be promoted to First Class Patrol Officer on the third anniversary of their swear in date as 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 will receive uniform clothing and equipment allowances.
- Mishawaka Police Department accepts out of state lateral transfers. Please inquire with the Mishawaka Police Recruiter for additional information. All contacts made with lateral officers are kept confidential.
Questions? Contact MPD Recruiter at mpdrecruiter@mishawaka.in.gov or 574-208-5550.
Connect with Mishawaka Police
Contact MPD recruiter for any additional questions or concerns regarding our hiring opportunities.
Recruiter Contact:
mpdrecruiter@mishawaka.in.gov
574-208-5550
8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Phone: (574) 258-1678
Fax: (574) 258-1690
Alex Arendt