Walter Energy could lay off up to 370 employees at its Brookwood mining facilities if market conditions don't improve, the company said Monday.
The company sent WARN notices to all union heads and all salaried employees at Jim Walter Resources Mine No. 7, the No. 5 preparation plant and the central shop, supply and management office.
"It does not necessarily mean any of the anticipated layoffs will occur; in this case, however, we expect those reductions to take place if market conditions do not improve," Walter spokesman William Stanhouse said.
The 370 employees represent about 20 percent of the 1,700 people who work at these mining operations.
Walter - and the coal industry in general - has reeled as coal prices have stayed low. Walter laid off 46 coal miners in March. Production at five of the company's coal mines operated is on the decline, according to a January analysis.
"The price of coal is very low and it's a global issue, not just a regional issue," Stanhouse said.
Walter Energy is a public company headquartered in Birmingham that produces coal, coke, natural gas and anthracite.
Walter Energy employed 3,600 people and had revenues of $1.9 billion in 2013, according to the company's 2013 annual report.