German manufacturer Schmidt Maschinenbau GmbH announced that it has selected Auburn, Alabama, as the location for its first U.S. manufacturing operation. Starting in 2016, Schmidt USA will produce engine components including balance shafts and gear wheels in Auburn for Mercedes-Benz and other German car manufacturers.

“Schmidt’s decision to open a manufacturing facility in Alabama is great news because it will result in the creation of 50 well-paying jobs and $17 million in new investment in Auburn,” Governor Robert Bentley said today. “This project reflects the strength of our expanding auto sector and the capabilities of our workforce. It also shows that Alabama is a perfect home for companies from around the world.”

“We feel confident that the U.S. operation will allow us to provide even greater value to our customers,” said Herbert Schmidt, president of Schmidt Maschinenbau GmbH. “I am very grateful for the support that our company has received from the State of Alabama and the City of Auburn, making our decision for selecting our new home easy.”

PRECISION MANUFACTURING

For over 30 years, Schmidt has produced precision parts for complex machining applications. Through its in-house expertise as a cutting specialist, Schmidt achieves efficient production of turned parts and economic milling for its customers, with a focus on machining and grinding of forged or casted parts. Intelligent utilization of automation technology and assembly know-how allows Schmidt to provide complete systems for the automotive industry, combining critical precision requirements and high volume parts.

“We are looking to hire motivated and skilled machinist in Auburn who we will invite for extensive training in Germany this fall,” Schmidt added. Individuals interested in the company’s upcoming machinist openings should contact the workforce development section at the City of Auburn’s Economic Development Department.

Mayor Bill Ham Jr. said: “The announcement today brings a great company and even more excellent jobs to Auburn. We are extremely grateful for the support that the project has received from the Governor and his administration. Schmidt is a perfect fit for our diversified, high-tech industrial sector and we’re excited to welcome them to Auburn.”

“Machining engine parts for Mercedes-Benz and other German car manufacturers is probably the most prestigious project in the automotive industry,” said Bill Taylor, president of the Economic Development Partnership of Alabama, which worked closely with the Schmidt team as it considered different locations in the Southeast. “Companies like Schmidt are key to the success of any car manufacturer, and I congratulate Mr. Schmidt for selecting Auburn Alabama.”

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