Jonesboro, Ark.-based Hytrol Conveyor Co. plans to add 140 jobs at its local production facility in the first quarter of 2019, the company said December 12.

The designer and manufacturer of conveyor systems said the new positions are in response to growth forecasts for the year ahead. The production jobs increase the company's local staffing level by more than 10 percent and strengthen its position as the largest manufacturing employer in Northeast Arkansas, according to Hytrol.

To combat the tight labor market in the region, company President David Peacock said Hytrol will augment competitive pay with other company benefits, including the company's free medical clinic and employee gym.

"While employers must offer competitive pay, Hytrol is also a great place to work," Peacock said in a statement announcing the company's hiring plans. "Our culture is incredible, and we want people to join us who are committed to our continued success while protecting that culture."