Governor Pat McCrory and N.C. Commerce Secretary Sharon Decker announced that Novozymes will expand its North Carolina presence by adding a new bioagriculture research and development facility in Wake County. The company plans to create 100 new jobs and invest more than $36 million over the next three years in Cary.
“The research and development jobs Novozymes will create will further strengthen our hi-tech hub and be an example of the strong talent pool and attractive quality of life that characterizes Wake County, the Research Triangle and the state,” said Governor McCrory.
The planned facility will specifically support Novozymes bioagriculture business. Scientists at the new site will research and develop beneficial microorganisms found in the soil. The resulting technology will focus on improved yield, fertility and pest control for growers around the world.
“With one of the fastest growing economies in our state, Cary and Wake County are leading the way in the Carolina Comeback,” said Secretary Decker. “Cutting edge research and development in the biotechnology field will attract even more of the best and brightest minds to North Carolina.”
Novozymes first opened its doors in North Carolina in 1979 with its North American headquarters and manufacturing plant in Franklinton. Today, Novozymes is a world leader in bioinnovation specializing in enzyme and microbial research, development and production for industrial manufacturing. The company uses nature’s technology to re-engineer thousands of everyday products and deliver enhanced performance, reduced energy, chemical and raw material costs and reduced waste streams for its customers. Novozymes’ bio-solutions enable everything from more drought tolerant crops to cold water laundry washing to advancements in renewable energy. The company currently employs 545 full-time workers in Franklin County.
“This is a new day in agriculture. Our growing world population and changing diets demand more crops from our arable land with less inputs. By substantially boosting our research and commercialization of environmentally-friendly microbial technology, we will help farmers meet this demand in a sustainable way for the benefit of agriculture, consumers, the environment and society at large,” said Adam Monroe, president, Americas for Novozymes. “We thank the state of North Carolina and our various partners for their support as we work to grow this important part of our business. We look forward to our expanded presence in North Carolina and continuing the great relationships we have in this state.”
Salaries will vary by job function, but the average annual wage for the new jobs will be $70,000 plus benefits. The Wake County average annual wage is $49,410.
“Novozymes’ choice to expand in Wake County is further proof that our economy is growing and that companies believe in our highly skilled workforce,” said Rep. Marilyn Avila. “My office will continue to support the growth of jobs and the business community.”
“This is a welcome jobs announcement for the people of Cary, Wake County and the region,” said Senator Josh Stein. “These high-paying jobs reflect a long standing commitment to developing a competitive workforce and investing in higher education in North Carolina.”
The project was made possible in part by a performance-based grant from the One North Carolina Fund of up to $400,000. The One NC Fund provides financial assistance, through local governments, to attract business projects that will stimulate economic activity and create new jobs in the state. Companies receive no money up front and must meet job creation and investment performance standards to qualify for grant funds. These grants also require and are contingent upon local matches.
Partners that helped with this project include: the N.C. Department of Commerce, N.C. Community Colleges, North Carolina Biotechnology Center, Cary Economic Development, the Town of Cary, Capital Area Workforce Development Board, Wake County Economic Development, Franklin County Economic Development Commission, Franklin County, Wake Technical Community College, UNC-Chapel Hill, and N.C. State University.
For more information about job opportunities with Novozymes please visit http://www.novozymes.com/en/careers.