Symmetry Medical, a provider of implants, related instruments, and cases to orthopedic device manufacturers is expanding its reach. The supplier is set to create at least 100 new jobs at its New Bedford office in the next five years. About 20 of those jobs will be dedicated to R&D and the remainder will be in manufacturing.

Earlier this month, Symmetry Medical entered into a $200 million senior secured revolving credit facility. The credit facility permits expansion of the borrowing capacity up to $300 million. The credit facility has a term of five years. Initial borrowings of approximately $89 million under the credit facility were used to retire existing debt, including the existing term loans and revolving credit facility, due in June 2011. The balance of the facility is available for general corporate and working capital requirements, international expansion and permitted acquisitions.

Symmetry Medical’s revenue for the third quarter 2010 was $91.5 million, up 5.1% compared to $87.2 million in the same period last year. Net income for the third quarter 2010 was $3.6 million, compared to $5.4 million in the same period last year.

Although its only one company—and a supplier, this may be a sign that the industry's efforts to move out of the economic crisis are starting to pay off.

Let me know if you've seen any more signs.

Heather Thompson