Posted: Aug 18, 2025
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Humane Society Police Officer

Animal Friends - Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Full-time
Salary: Hourly
Application Deadline: N/A
Non-Profit
Position Summary:
 
The Humane Society Police Officer (HPSO) plays a key role in Animal Friends commitment to reduce and eliminate animal cruelty and suffering. This position investigates reports of animal abuse and neglect in Allegheny County while serving as a point person for community outreach, education and supportive resources. The HSPO is tasked with educating pet owners, ensuring compliance with the law and ensuring standards of health and welfare of animals. The HSPO has police powers as defined by the Pennsylvania HSPO Act (22PA. C. S. A. Chapter 37) to enforce the Cruelty to Animals law found in the PA Crimes Code, Title 18. The HSPO should direct their efforts to prevent cruelty to animals and, when warranted, rescue animals in danger, in accordance with the law. The HSPO is expected to adhere to procedures defined by the PA State law and with policies defined by Animal Friends’ Management. The HSPO is expected to carry out the mission of Animal Friends as part of our community resource efforts and serve as a positive ambassador for the organization in our region. [AO1] 
 
Essential Functions:
 
· Investigates reports of animal abuse and animal cruelty, interviews witnesses, collects evidence, and writes case reports. 
· Assists in removal of abandoned or abused animals as dictated by law. 
· Writes reports of activities and maintains files of confiscations and dispositions of animal cruelty. Issues warnings or citations in connection with animal cruelty related offenses. 
· Prepares motions for sedation, euthanasia and spay and neuter, and other needs as they arise; receives approval from the District Attorney’s Office; and files the motions with the necessary courts. 
· Maintains confidentiality with all sensitive information within Humane Investigations department and Animal Friends.
· Writes and files criminal complaints upon approval from the District Attorney’s Office. 
· Writes, submits, and executes search warrants, upon approval from the District Attorney’s Office.
· Prepares for prosecutions related to animal cruelty cases; testifies and provides evidence in court.
· Answers inquiries from the public concerning animal cruelty and the prevention thereof. 
· Builds relationships and works collaboratively with other HSPOs, animal control officers, and county dog warden, as well as other local, state and federal law enforcement agencies.
· Attends and actively participates in certification classes at outside agencies both as a recipient and as a trainer. 
· Leverages volunteer talent by engaging their assistance within the department, thereby helping us to further our mission and vision and to achieve the organization’s expectation of 100% integration of volunteers into our programs. 
· Cleans facilities and equipment such as animal crates and HI vehicle(s) as needed. 
· Performs other duties as assigned.