CenturyLink Confirms More Layoffs, Cites Level 3 Acquisition, Automation

**Editor’s Note: Click here for the latest edition of the Channel Partners telecom and IT layoff tracker.**

CenturyLink is laying off hundreds more of its workers, or 2 percent of its workforce, as a result of its acquisition of Level 3 Communications, increased efficiencies and automation.

The acquisition was completed in November. CenturyLink had about 50,000 employees at the end of last year.

CenturyLink previously cut jobs just after the close of the acquisition. In November, it confirmed it was laying off more than 150 employees. About 165 employees were impacted by the layoffs, including 37 in Louisiana, where the company is based.

“As a result of our acquisition of Level 3, our customers, from individual consumers to global enterprises, benefit from our expanded, innovative network solutions and our complementary managed services,” said CenturyLink spokesman Mark Molzen. “However, the combination of two large companies also creates redundant positions that must be addressed to remain competitive. In addition, as part of our ongoing efforts to deliver high levels of customer service, we are implementing best practices and increasing automation. As a result of these two factors, we are reducing our workforce by approximately 2 percent.”

CenturyLink is not disclosing where the layoffs are taking place or the types of jobs impacted by the cuts.

“It’s disgraceful,” said Lisa Bolton, vice president of the Communications Workers of America (CWA) telecommunications and technologies sector. “Cuts like these devastate working families and the communities that CenturyLink serves. CenturyLink is laying off well-trained, dedicated employees and trying to get by with low-wage contractors while CEO Glen Post looks forward to a gold-plated retirement.”

CWA District 7 represents more than 11,000 workers at CenturyLink. The company received $1.1 billion as a result of last year’s Tax Cut and Jobs Act, according to the union.

CenturyLink continually evaluates its cost structure and business practices, and adjusts its operations to meet the needs of the business, Molzen said.