WHO WE ARE? Action Réfugiés Montréal (ARM) is a faith-inspired, non-profit, non-governmental organization that has been promoting justice and defending the rights of refugees and asylum seekers for over 30 years. Our mission is to support forcibly displaced individuals by offering compassionate accompaniment and concrete services tailored to their needs, while raising awareness in Québec and across Canada about contemporary migration realities. ARM acts as a bridge between refugees and the host society by fostering intercultural, interfaith, and community connections. This approach aims to promote empowerment, dignity, and social inclusion for refugees, while encouraging mutual solidarity. Our programs include support for individuals detained under Canada’s immigration system, family reunification through private sponsorship, and public education and awareness through our Twinning program. This recruitment is part of our efforts to strengthen our impact in a constantly evolving migration context.

DESCRIPTION

Reporting to the Program Manager, the Detention Program Coordinator is responsible for managing, developing, and implementing activities related to supporting individuals detained under Canada’s immigration system. This person plays a critical role in advocating for the rights of detained migrants while maintaining a constructive dialogue with detention centre authorities to ensure continued access to the site and the provision of appropriate interventions for individuals held there. We are looking for someone deeply committed to social justice, with a strong background in psychosocial support and the ability to work independently in a demanding and complex environment.

REQUIREMENTS

• Master’s degree in Social Work (obtained in Québec) or a related field;
• Minimum of five years of experience in a similar role, ideally in a community or forced migration context;
• In-depth knowledge of Canada’s immigration system, including distinctions between refugee and asylum seeker statuses;
• Strong sensitivity to the realities faced by refugees and migrants, with an approach grounded in compassion, empathy, and non-judgment;
• Proven ability to work independently, make sound decisions, and manage complex ethical dilemmas;
• Excellent interpersonal and intercultural communication skills;
• Asset: Knowledge of the Canadian correctional system;
• Asset: Experience or training in working within detention settings;
• Fluency in French and English, both oral and written; Spanish is an asset;
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and Google Workspace tools.

• Coordinate all activities of ARM’s Detention Program;
• Conduct regular visits to the Laval Immigration Holding Centre (IHC);
• Provide individualized support to detained individuals;
• Assess the psychosocial and legal needs of detainees, connect them with appropriate resources, and provide follow-up as needed;
• Collaborate with community and institutional partners to respond to identified needs and make referrals as appropriate;
• Maintain a constructive working relationship with IHC authorities, in line with ARM’s values and rights-based mission;
• Document cases, maintain accurate records, and produce regular reports for the executive director;
• Contribute to the organization’s awareness and advocacy efforts related to immigration detention;
• Supervise and support staff, interns, and volunteers involved in the program;
• Ensure the confidentiality and dignity of all individuals served at all times;
• Act as a spokesperson for the Detention Program in interactions with the media;
• Participate in working groups focused on the rights of detained or refugee populations;
• Support the development and maintenance of strong relationships with technical partners;
• Perform other related duties, as required by the needs of refugee individuals and as directed by the executive director.