A primary Kia Motors supplier plant began screening job applications through the state Department of Labor this week.

Applications still are being accepted for 20 to 30 positions at Daehan Solution Georgia at 791 North Progress Parkway in West Point, said Tim Ferguson, plant quality manager.

With the current unemployment rate in Troup County at 12 percent, Ferguson said his company is proud to offer jobs.

“While it’s only 20 to 30 immediate jobs, we are happy provide this area a boost during this time of economic hardship,” Ferguson said. “We also plan to hire the second wave of production and support personnel in June for a total of 60 to 80 employees.”

Initial positions offered for the $35 million, 125,000-square-foot plant include a human resources manager, production manager, quality engineer, production supervisor, production control positions, maintenance technicians, plant inspectors, team leaders and production workers.

Immediate hires will begin a four- to six-week training session in May.

Ferguson also said full production of the plant should begin by the end of the year after the second wave of new hires are in place.

By 2011, 250 to 300 jobs will have been offered.

Construction of the 25-acre plant site began in December and will last until April.

When in full production, it will provide interior carpet, insulation and trim for the Kia plant being built in West Point.

Kenneth Thompson can be reached at kethompson@ lagrangenews.com or at (706) 884-7311, Ext. 228.