Chief Cruelty Investigator

Chief Cruelty Investigator

Location: Houston, TX
Organization: Houston SPCA
Reports to: Senior Vice President of Veterinary Medicine

About the Role

Do you thrive in high-stakes environments where your leadership and compassion can make a real difference? As our Chief Cruelty Investigator, you’ll lead a dedicated team of professionals responding to reports of animal cruelty and neglect across Harris County and surrounding areas. This role is about more than enforcing laws—it’s about alleviating suffering, inspiring change, and protecting the most vulnerable.

What You’ll Do

• Lead with Purpose: Manage a team of ten investigators, fostering collaboration and accountability while ensuring adherence to protocols.
• Act Decisively: Prioritize and coordinate investigations, balancing urgency with thoroughness to deliver timely, effective outcomes.
• Engage with Stakeholders: Work hand-in-hand with law enforcement, prosecutors, and courts to pursue justice for animals.
• Stay Hands-On: Respond personally to critical cases, oversee safe capture and transport of animals, and maintain compliance with laws and SOPs.
• Champion Education: Represent Houston SPCA in community outreach, promoting responsible animal ownership and welfare.
• Drive Excellence: Train staff, maintain investigative standards, and continuously improve processes for maximum impact.

Who You Are

• A natural leader who builds trust and inspires teamwork under pressure.
• Ethical and resilient, with the ability to navigate emotionally charged situations calmly and professionally.
• Skilled in investigations and case management, with experience collaborating with law enforcement and testifying in court.
• Comfortable working in diverse environments—from rural farms to urban neighborhoods—and handling animals with patience and care.
• Tech-savvy, detail-oriented, and committed to continuous improvement.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in management, criminal justice, or related field preferred.
• Minimum 5 years of staff and case management experience.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Valid Texas Driver’s License and ability to work flexible hours, including nights and weekends.
• Physical ability to lift and transport animals safely.

Why Join Us?

At Houston SPCA, we believe in creating a safer, more compassionate world for animals—and for the people who care for them. You’ll have the opportunity to lead meaningful work, collaborate with passionate professionals, and make a lasting impact in our community.

Ready to lead the fight against animal cruelty? Apply today and help us protect those who cannot protect themselves.

Houston SPCA is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. We are an equal opportunity employer and do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic. We believe that diversity enriches our organization and enhances our ability to serve our community.