Tech giant Microsoft unveils expansion in Charlotte; 430 jobs coming

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — One of the best-known names in technology will be bringing hundreds of jobs to Mecklenburg County.

Gov. Roy Cooper announced Friday that Microsoft will create 430 new jobs and invest $23 million to expand their operations in Charlotte.

Microsoft Corp. already employs more than 1,000 people at a campus off Arrowood Road in south Charlotte.

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“Global companies like Microsoft can choose anywhere in the world to expand, and again a highly recognizable brand has decided North Carolina is the right fit,” said Cooper. “Today’s announcement means the company and Mecklenburg County will grow stronger because of this investment in the campus and the people around it.”

“The opportunity that we have to grow our base and our talent in North Carolina is an exciting one,” said Reggie Isaac, Microsoft Charlotte campus director. “Microsoft is pleased to be empowering customers, partners, and employees in the Charlotte area and looks forward to the prospects ahead.”

The North Carolina Department of Commerce led the state’s support for the company’s decision.

“North Carolina is one of the most rapidly growing technology sectors in the country,” said North Carolina Commerce Secretary Anthony M. Copeland. “As a leader in IT talent, research, and development, North Carolina is a smart choice for Microsoft’s expansion and new ventures.”

Wages will vary depending on the position, but the average for all new positions could reach up to $98,711. The current average annual wage in Mecklenburg County is $66,709.

“The addition of 430 new tech jobs is a vote of confidence for our region,” said N.C. Senator Jeff Jackson. “We have a strong pipeline of talent in Mecklenburg County who are ready to support Microsoft’s expansion and new operations.”

Microsoft’s project will be facilitated, in part, by a Job Development Investment Grant approved by the state’s Economic Investment Committee. Over the course of the 12-year term of this grant, the project is estimated to grow the state’s economy by nearly $1.9 billion.

“An investment of this magnitude is a win for the entire state,” said N.C. Representative Chaz Beasley. “Microsoft’s continued investment in our state signifies our ability to deliver a strong business climate and a great quality of life that successful tech companies need.”

George Dunlap, chairman of the Mecklenburg County Commissioners, said the tech company's growth will create hundreds of secondary jobs.

“It is a testament to our business environment and the quality of our skilled labor pool that Microsoft would choose to expand operations and grow its partnership with the Charlotte region,” said Charlotte Mayor Vi Lyles. “Microsoft has been extremely active in the Charlotte community and we are excited that it will be an even larger part of our thriving tech industry.”

Microsoft could receive up to nearly $8 million in state incentives if it meets the goals for job creation and investment.

Microsoft has not said when it will start the expansion.

Cox Media Group