(Bloomberg) -- Tyson Foods Inc.’s automation projects are moving faster than expected, which has allowed the meat company to shift workers from more “laborious” jobs such as deboning chicken, executives said on its quarterly earnings call.

The company didn’t give an estimate for how much the work force has been reduced, if at all. Chief Executive Officer Donnie King said some employees in difficult, high-turnover positions are being reassigned elsewhere. 

Tyson also highlighted its childcare program, which it said has resulted in improved staffing levels and reduced turnover. Of the 1,100 jobs will move to the Springdale, Arkansas, headquarters following the consolidation of corporate offices, the number of people choosing to move is about in line with expectations.

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