Drug firm expanding NC operation, adding 260 jobs

RALEIGH -- A drug company is expanding its operations in North Carolina, adding nearly 260 jobs. State officials said Friday that Talecris Biotherapeutics will add 259 jobs as part of a $269 million expansion near Clayton. Commerce Department spokesman Charles Winkler said the company in Research Triangle Park could get nearly $4 million in state incentives if it meets investment and job targets. The incentive package comes with a requirement that the company keep its nearly 2,300 jobs in North Carolina. Commerce officials say Talecris' new jobs in Clayton will pay average annual salaries of $51,000. The company says it wants to meet increasing demand for its drugs made from blood plasma.