T-Mobile will cut 1,900 jobs by closing 7 call centers
In an effort to consolidate its call facilities, T-Mobile will reduce its number of centers from 24 to 17.
Citing it as an "important step to achieve competitive cost structures," T-Mobile announced today in a press release that it will merge its call center operations, and cut its number of facilities by the end of June from 24 to 17.
The seven offices, which currently employ 3,300 people, are located in Allentown, Pa.; Fort Lauderdale, Fla.; Frisco and Brownsville, Texas; Lenexa, Kan.; Thorton, Colo.; and Redmond, Ore.
As a result of the facilities being shut down, 1,900 net jobs will be lost.
"Obviously this is a decision that was not made easily," said David Henderson, a T-Mobile spokeman who spoke with CNET.
"But the reason for the closure of these seven call centers is a result of a smaller customer base and lower call volumes."
The company does expect to hire as many as 1,400 people at the remaining 17 centers, and is encouraging employees from the seven closing offices to move from one office to another. Relocation assistance will be offered to transferring workers.
For those who do not plan on transferring, T-Mobile will offer severance pay and outplacement aid. It will also set up on-site career centers at the seven locations, as well as provide workers with a career coach.
Currently, employees will continue to work at the seven call facilities, and the offices will continue to stay open for three months following today's announcement.
"We think it's important to promptly notify the affected employees," Henderson said. "This is why we're making the announcement three months before changes take place."