Probes Unlimited to nearly double workforce in August

BONIFAY – Holmes County’s newest industry has not yet started its production line yet is already looking to nearly double its existing workforce.

Pennsylvania-based Probes Unlimited expanded to Bonifay in May, preparing to take up residence at the old Bonifay Middle School campus on Telfair Street as its newest manufacturing location for custom temperature OEM sensing devices.

At that time of the announcement, the company projected initially hiring 18 workers. With the manufacturing line slated to start running next week, the company expects to exceed that initial immediate job creation estimate, having already hired 14 and looking to hire at least 12 more by the first week in August.

The company estimates it will eventually employ at least 60 at the new site, which will operate out of the old BMS fifth grade wing. In a time when other businesses are struggling to fill open positions, the company reports 93 applicants during the first round of hiring.

“ThatÂ’s amazing to me,” said a Probes Unlimited spokesperson. “Everywhere you go, there are people saying they canÂ’t find people to work, and here are 93 who said they are ready right now and interested in our company. I call that a good sign.” 

The building interior has already been renovated and is 90 percent ready for production. Other final touches, such as parking lot and driveway construction, are nearing completion.

The company is currently brining in energy efficient technology such as DC linear welders and plans to seek grant funding to install solar panels on the building with a goal of becoming more energy self-reliant.

Production will begin at Probes Unlimited in Bonifay on July 13.