Yellowknife (Aug 30/06) - A Swedish mining company is in the process of setting up shop in the city.

Sandvik Mining and Construction, an international company working in more than 50 countries, is getting ready to move North, with an office now under construction in the Kam Lake industrial park.

The company will provide contract services for a number of mining positions at De Beers Canada's Snap Lake project, said Jack Poirier, customer service representative for Sandvik Mining and Construction Canada.

Job opportunities will range from mechanics, welders, and electricians to warehouse personnel, said Poirier.

He was unable to say how many jobs will be available.

A 6,600-square-foot warehouse is being added to the existing Kam Lake Industrial Centre, which is to be Sandvik's Yk base of operations.

Along with being a storage facility, the warehouse will also have office space and a conference room, said Poirier.

"Employees will have an area to catch up on their work. It will act as a centre hub for Sandvik employees," he said.

Having another large international mining company is a positive sign for Yellowknife, said Mike Vaydik general manager with the NWT Chamber of Mines.

"It indicates confidence in Northern mining and growth in the business," he said.

An international company like Sandvik is good for the entire community, said Joe Leonardis Jr., owner of the Kam Lake Industrial Centre property where Sandvik will be located.

"We're looking for those kinds of companies in Yellowknife," he said.