By DAVID BERTOLA
dbertola@bizjournals.com | 716-541-1621

Northrop Grumman Amherst Systems is laying off 94, effective Jan. 31.

In October, employees were informed of plans to eliminate an estimated 800 positions at the Los Angeles-based company's electronic systems sector facilities in Maryland and several other states by the end of January. Workforce reductions were based on the business outlook for electronic systems and the anticipation of further reductions in defense spending.

To mitigate the impact on employees, a voluntary reduction program was conducted at many Northrop Grumman locations across the country. More than 300 eligible employees participated.

"However, the number of volunteers did not reduce our head count to the extent required in all of the areas where we have an insufficient amount of work," company spokesman Jack Martin Jr. said. "As a result, we must undertake an involuntary reduction totaling about 400 positions, including 94 at our Amherst Systems business unit in Buffalo."

According to Martin, affected individuals were notified Jan. 17, with their last workday set for Jan. 31. He said the layoffs are across the board and involve virtually all organizations and functions. That includes engineering, manufacturing and administrative support positions.

After the 94 are laid off, the local workforce will be approximately 256.

Employees affected by the workforce reduction will receive separation and other benefits for which they are entitled. The company also will provide outplacement assistance for who will seek other employment, including at other Northrop Grumman facilities.

In 2011, Amherst Systems laid off 119 employees due to a decline in new orders for its electronic warfare simulation products. The year before, 54 local jobs were eliminated.