Citing the merger with Level 3 and the implementation of automation across its network as key factors, CenturyLink is giving its workforce a 2% shave.    

While CenturyLink didn't say what areas the job cuts impact, the nation's third-largest fixed-line operator had roughly 50,000 employees near the end of last year, which would equate to about 1,000 jobs.  

"As a result of our acquisition of Level 3, our customers, from individual consumers to global enterprises, benefit from our expanded, innovative network solutions and our complementary managed services," wrote CenturyLink spokesman Mark Molzen, in an email to FierceTelecom. "However, the combination of two large companies also creates redundant positions that must be addressed to remain competitive. In addition, as part of our ongoing efforts to deliver high levels of customer service, we are implementing best practices and increasing automation. As a result of these two factors, we are reducing our workforce by approximately 2%."  

CenturyLink touted the extended reach of its network after closing on its $34 billion deal to buy Level 3, but duplicate positions among employees between the two large service providers were a given.