Sprint to Sack Up to 2,500

An ugly Monday for Sprint Nextel (S) employees. The company plans to eliminate 2,000 to 2,500 positions in the fourth quarter as part of its effort to reduce labor costs by at least $350 million.

“The company is taking this action in a careful manner to ensure that there is no impact on the improved customer experience that has been reflected in much higher levels of satisfaction in customer surveys and in independent performance tests,” Sprint said in a statement. “Sprint has pledged to not waver on the company’s commitment to quality service and products….The impact on geographic locations will vary, and many impacted positions will be eliminated by Dec. 31, 2009.”

Nice. Just in time for the holidays, too.