Hundreds of jobs are on the chopping block at Windstream. The internet-digital television company has announced it plans to cut about 350 positions by the end of the year.

In a news release this afternoon, the company said the job cuts are to offset revenue pressure in the residential voice business and to better align the company to focus on broadband and business enterprise opportunities.

Windstream says it is restructuring its workforce as it continues to transform to a broadband and business enterprise model.

"These changes are difficult because they affect people, but are necessary for Windstream to proactively manage the transformation of our business model and to continue our industry-leading financial performance," said Jeff Gardner, president and chief executive officer of Windstream.

The company will seek volunteers, eliminate open positions and utilize attrition as part of the reduction initiative to minimize the effect of the changes.

Windstream expects to incur a charge of approximately $15 million in the fourth quarter to pay severance benefits to affected employees. Outplacement counseling also will be provided.

Windstream employs about 7,100 people.

The company provides phone, high-speed Internet and high-definition digital TV services to customers in 16 states, including Arkansas.