Updated 1:51 p.m. ET

Automakers continue to create more jobs in the U.S., and the latest is Hyundai.

The South Korean automaker will add a third shift of production at its Montgomery, Ala., facility. That will create 877 positions and push total employment at the plant past 3,000. The plant will be able to turn out about 245,000 vehicles a year, up about 20,000 due to the extra shift.

This year's booming auto demand, especially for hot models such as the Hyundai Sonata midsize sedan and Elantra compact, are making the extra work possible:

Sonata production began two years ago and now represents a third of Hyundai's U.S. sales. Elantra output started last year.

"The continued success of Hyundai's Sonata and Elantra in North America is a direct reflection of the dedication to quality and craftsmanship" at the plants, said Young Deuk Lim, Hyundia's chief executive officer at its Alabama plant. "This commitment is the key reason Hyundai Motor Co. chose to continue to invest in the people of Alabama and increase vehicle production in Montgomery."

Hyundai says the transition to three shifts will begin in September. Job applications and pre-employment training will begin this summer.