GE acquired the artificial lift specialist in a $3.3 billion deal in 2013.

The layoffs will take place by 26 March at the Angelina County facility, according to a information filed with the Texas Workforce Commission.

In a statement a GE spokeswoman confirmed the reductions to Upstream.

"GE Oil & Gas has started restructuring projects to reduce the cost structure of the Lufkin business," she said.

"This