Pyrotek bringing jobs back to Valley

A Spokane Valley manufacturer is reversing the flow of skilled jobs, bringing back 20 jobs from a Mexican factory to start a production line here.

Pyrotek Inc. is using about $75,000 in state assistance money to hire and train 20 area workers. It will also use another $75,000 in state money to relocate production equipment from Pyrotek’s plant in Apodaca, Mexico.

The company makes high-end metal and composite products.

Company Finance Manager Michael Sekedat said state support and the option of using the Spokane Valley site’s “technical and management expertise” helped in the decision.

The new facility will make high-quality ceramic filters used by an industrial customer.

Production is expected to begin in August.

The 20 positions are considered skilled manufacturing jobs, said Robin Toth of Greater Spokane Inc., which worked on behalf of Pyrotek in obtaining the state assistance. The jobs will pay in the $18 to $25 per hour range, she said.

While the state has kicked in cash for the relocation, Washington will eventually gain about $450,000 in tax revenue from the new project, according to GSI.

A news release said the company considered Idaho, Pennsylvania and Tennessee before moving the work back to Spokane. Gov. Chris Gregoire also issued a statement that credited the state Commerce Department and GSI for helping Pyrotek move jobs back to Spokane Valley. Pyrotek has more than 60 facilities in 31 countries.

Company officials declined to say where the facility will be located.