JDSU plans to cut 125 Santa Rosa jobs

SANTA ROSA -- JDS Uniphase Corp. said it plans to cut 125 jobs at its Santa Rosa-based optical division.

The layoffs stem from a decision to cease production of several products that have reached the end of their cycle at the Optical Security and Performance Products segments, according to the company. Such products include solar, infra-red, anti-reflection and front-surface mirrors.

"As a result of this decision, we expect to reduce the OSP workforce by approximately 125 employees over the next six months. Most of the affected employees are located in Santa Rosa," JDSU said in a statement.

JDSU employs some 620 people through its Optical Security and Performance Products, including about 450 in Sonoma County. Globally, JDSU has nearly 5,300 employees.

The OSP group will remain strategically focused on two priority markets:Pigment-based optical security technology for anticounterfeiting measures.Precision optical coatings for consumer electronics, government and health care

The color-shifting pigments are used on more than 110 currencies around the world to protect against counterfeiting.

The optical coatings are used on new gesture-recognition systems, eye protection from lasers and on analytical equipment.

"Open communication and support for all impacted employees are key priorities for JDSU throughout this process. Employees will be given appropriate notice, and offered severance pay and job placement services," the statement said.

In May, JDSU reported a third-quarter ended March 30 net loss of $28 million, with net revenues of $405.3 million in the third quarter compared to $429.4 million in the previous quarter.  Net revenue for fiscal 2012 third quarter was $403.3 million, with net loss of $17.4 million.

"This activity only impacts the OSP business segment at JDSU. We are confident that these changes will strengthen our focus on the best growth opportunities for the OSP group and for JDSU.

Shares of JDSU were $14.29 at the close of trading Thursday, up 1.78 percent from Wednesday.

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