Jobs Coming to Walker County

Larry Brooks, Economic Director for Walker County, says, "Right now the company is anticipating only hiring local folks."

Euclid Chemical bought out PSI Fiber in LaFayette three years ago.

They make synthetic fibers used in concrete.

Brooks adds, "They sell their product to concrete manufacturers and it is placed in the concrete mix."

But now they’ve outgrown their facility.

So, they’re moving to the old Imperical Cup building just north of LaFayette.

Even though it’s been vacant for about a decade, employees say it’s a perfect fit.

Grant Beasley, Director of Operations at Euclid Chemical, says, "It’s about five times our current size. We won’t need all that immediately, but over the next two to three years, we hope to grow into it."

So, they’re taking an old building and making new jobs; about 20 of them.

Hiring could start this summer and through next fall.

Beasley adds, "They’re production jobs. They range in skill level from entry level on up to machine operators up to $14 or $15 an hour."

Employees hope to make the big move in about two months and have everything up and running by July.

They’re also excited that thenew location is by a railroad because that will save money as they bring in raw materials.

Brooks adds, "Its great use for Walker County and the possibility for employment for locals."

This expansion, along with others in county, will help bring the unemployment rate of about 5.7 down even further.