answer
the call
We are looking for the best and brightest recruits to become a member of the fourth largest police department in the state. Please take a few moments to learn more about the rewards and benefits of becoming a South Bend Police Officer. If you have any questions please feel free to contact our Training Division for additional information, at (574) 235-9224.
WHY
SBPD?
COMPETITIVE SALARY
The 2025 salary for a PFC starts at $77,157 + shift incentives
HIGH-QUALITY BENEFITS
Health and life insurance are offered, paid trainings, paid time off, pension plan, and more
eXPANDED TAKE HOME CAR PROGRAM
Upon completion of training, officers can take advantage of an expansive take-home car program.
How to
Apply
COMPLETE APPLICATION
The South Bend Police Department accepts employment applications for Police Officer Recruits on a rolling basis.
ATTEND OUR NEXT PROSPECT DAY
Our next one-day police testing day is scheduled for Saturday, March 28, 2026 . Prospect Day streamlines our testing process, allowing you to complete a majority of our initial exams in one day.
TAKE A WRITTEN EXAM
Created by a professional consulting firm using job-related criteria
Four sections: Arithmetic, Reading Comprehension, Grammar, and Incident Report Writing
Must score 80% or higher to continue on to interview phase
Study guides for the written test will be given out after successful completion of the physical fitness assessment. Applicants will also have the opportunity to attend voluntary study sessions that are offered. At these study sessions, a practice test will be given, scored, and information on oral interview preparation will be discussed.
INTERVIEWS
Applicants may be asked to participate in three rounds of interviews: Personal Interview, Structured Interview, and Pension Board Interview
Non-Sworn
Roles
Opportunities for positions other than sworn officers are advertised on the City of South Bend’s Human Resources Portal.
These applications must be submitted via the link below and should not be submitted directly to the South Bend Police Department.