The Michigan-based company that owns Utilimaster is expected to create up to 147 new jobs in Elkhart County by 2019 as part of a $10.9 million expansion plan.

Spartan Fleet Vehicles and Services announced Tuesday, May 31, that it is increasing production at the Bristol manufacturing facility to meet increased demand.

The Indiana Economic Development Corporation is giving Spartan up to $550,000 in tax credits and up to $50,000 in training grants, which cannot be claimed until the company hires Hoosiers.

Spartan said Tuesday that already hired more than 40 employees out of the 147 positions. Available jobs include administrative, manufacturing and material-handling positions. Anyone interested can apply through Spherion.