Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories (SEL) is expanding its manufacturing footprint in Idaho with the acquisition of a new facility in Nampa, an investment expected to create approximately 250 jobs for Canyon County residents. The Pullman, Washington-based company announced the purchase of a 103,000-square-foot building at 1406 N. Galleria Drive, marking its fourth major manufacturing expansion in just two years.
This development underscores the growing economic output of Idaho News‘s coverage area as high-tech manufacturers seek domestic production sites. SEL, which has manufactured products in the United States since 1984, plans to produce electronic devices at the Nampa location similar to those currently built in its Pullman and Lewiston facilities.
Major Investment in Canyon County Manufacturing
The company is committing $150 million toward the Nampa facility and necessary equipment. The new site is expected to become operational in 2027, adding significant capacity to SEL’s domestic production network. This expansion follows recent moves by the firm to open a facility in Moscow, Idaho; expand panel operations in Charlotte, North Carolina; and acquire additional property in its home state of Washington.
SEL invents, designs, and builds digital products designed to protect power grids. The company serves customers in 170 countries and backs its products with a 10-year worldwide warranty. As a 100 percent employee-owned enterprise, SEL’s growth directly impacts the financial well-being of its workforce.
High-Wage Opportunities for Local Workers
The Nampa expansion offers substantial wage benefits for local job seekers. SEL is offering a starting wage of $26 per hour for manufacturing roles, with shift differentials reaching up to $10 per hour. These compensation packages aim to attract skilled workers to the Treasure Valley and provide long-term career stability.
The company currently has more than 800 open positions globally, indicating strong demand for its grid protection technology. The initial hiring phase in Nampa will focus on filling the approximately 250 manufacturing roles required to staff the new building.
Leadership Cites Global Demand
Company leadership attributes the expansion to sustained international interest in SEL’s technology. “Customer demand for SEL products and solutions continues to grow around the world,” said SEL President Dave Whitehead.
Dr. Ed Schweitzer, a co-founder of the company, emphasized the strategic nature of the move. “This expansion represents a long-term commitment to supporting our customers and preparing SEL for sustained growth well into the future,” he said.
The addition of this facility reinforces Nampa’s position as a hub for advanced manufacturing in Idaho. With Canyon County economic output reaching $8.92 billion in 2024, investments like SEL’s contribute significantly to the region’s fiscal health and job market diversity.