CARIBOU (AP) – An automotive circuitry manufacturer plans to phase out its operation here by year’s end, with a loss of 62 jobs.

Employees were told Tuesday that their work was being shifted to First Technology plants in Standish and the Dominican Republic.

“It’s kind of sad,” said Beverly Miner, human resources manager at Standish, who confirmed the closure plans. “Some people will lose their jobs, and others will be gaining. The closure will be gradual, but it will be done by the end of the year.”

Miner said Caribou employees who wish to relocate may be offered work at the Standish plant.

Caribou City Manager Steve Buck said First Technology is the kind of clean industry that municipalities welcome with open arms.

“It’s a lot of jobs,” he said. “It’s a big hit for us, and it will be a tough one.”

The plant began operating in Caribou under the name Mecon in the late 1970s. It is now part of the British-based First Technology PLC Group, with 1,200 employees worldwide.

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