The employees will support 8R production
John Deere is recalling almost 150 previously laid off employees.
Beginning in March, 146 workers will return to work at the company’s Waterloo Tractor Operations facility in Waterloo, Iowa.
They will support 8R production in assembly, machining, logistics, and foundry operations.
The manufacturer originally laid off employees because of lower demand.
But a reversal of that trend necessitates larger workforce.
“These callbacks at Waterloo Tractor Operations reflect the production needs driven by increased customer demand. We’re excited to recall experienced employees to support our factories,” Fabio Castro, Waterloo Works vice president and factory manager,” said in a company statement.
The Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM) sees situations that could support improved ag equipment demand in the U.S.
Between the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, overall fleet age, and used equipment inventories, producers may feel their dollars are better spent on new machinery.
“Used ag equipment is becoming a less attractive alternative to new equipment. Used equipment inventories are much lower than they were a few years ago, which is driving prices up faster than those of new equipment,” AEM said in a November 2025 outlook for the year ahead.
The recall of John Deere employees for its Waterloo facilities is the company’s second round of recalls this year.
Last month John Deere announced it is bringing 99 workers back to its Davenport and Dubuque plants.
These employees are supporting assembly, material handling, and other tasks.