Advance Your Career in Agricultural Finance with the USDA

Are you a finance professional with a passion for the agricultural sector? The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) is currently looking for a skilled Loan Specialist (Agricultural) to join the State Office in Phoenix, Arizona. This role offers an incredible opportunity to influence agricultural economic stability while working for one of the most vital agencies in the federal government.

Job Responsibilities

As a Loan Specialist, you will be the backbone of financial operations in the state office. Key duties include:

Evaluating complex farm loan applications and recommending approvals or denials.
Providing technical assistance on farm organization and land development.
Servicing agricultural loan portfolios to ensure ongoing compliance.
Developing internal procedures and guidance documents for agency staff.
Handling appeal cases and serving as an appellate authority for loan decisions.

Requirements

To be considered for this position, applicants must meet specific federal standards:

Citizenship: Must be a U.S. citizen.
Loan Authority: Must possess or have possessed Agricultural Loan Approval Authority.
Probation: A 1-year probationary period is mandatory.
Documentation: Submission of all relevant transcripts and professional certifications is required.

Grade Level Comparison

Feature	GS-11 Level	GS-12 Level
Experience Requirement	1 year at GS-9 level	1 year at GS-11 level
Primary Focus	Technical loan processing	Complex portfolio management
Education Substitution	Available	Not available

Salary Overview

This position offers a highly competitive federal salary range of $78,117 to $121,720 per year, commensurate with experience and grade level. In addition to base pay, federal employees receive a comprehensive benefits package that adds significant long-term value to your compensation.

Benefits

Comprehensive Health Insurance (wide array of plans).
Federal Pension Plan and Thrift Savings Plan (401k-style).
Generous paid leave (vacation/sick) and federal holidays.
Career advancement opportunities and potential for relocation incentives.

Application Tips

Tailor Your Resume: Keep it to exactly two pages. Emphasize your experience in loan underwriting and agricultural finance.
Check Your Paperwork: Ensure your transcripts are legible and include all necessary course data.
Prepare for Assessments: The USA Hire assessment is a critical gatekeeper. Take the practice tests available on the OPM website before the actual exam.
Submit Early: Don't wait until the final hour of the closing date, as system delays can occur.

This position represents a unique blend of financial oversight and agricultural support. If you are looking to build a stable, rewarding career with a federal agency, we encourage you to apply to the USDA Farm Service Agency today.

Why This Loan Specialist (Agricultural) Job Matters

Shape the future of American agriculture by managing high-impact loan programs in Phoenix with the USDA Farm Service Agency.

Loan Specialist (Agricultural) Job Overview

The USDA Farm Service Agency is seeking a dedicated Loan Specialist (Agricultural) to join our team in Phoenix, Arizona. This role is pivotal in supporting our nation's farming communities by evaluating complex loan program activities, providing technical expertise, and ensuring the integrity of our financial assistance programs. If you have a background in agricultural finance and a passion for public service, this is a unique opportunity to advance your career within a mission-driven organization.

Requirements for Loan Specialist (Agricultural)

Must be a U.S. Citizen or U.S. National.
Must be registered for Selective Service (if born after 12/31/1959).
Must possess or have possessed Agricultural Loan Approval Authority.
Completion of a 1-year probationary period is required.
Must successfully pass an E-Verify and background investigation.
Requirement to file a Confidential Financial Disclosure Report (OGE-450) annually.
Ability to maintain appropriate security clearance and credit report standards.

Preferred Qualifications for Loan Specialist (Agricultural)

Experience in agricultural, commercial, or mortgage loan underwriting.
Demonstrated knowledge of farm operations, land valuation, and crop/livestock production economics.
Expertise in servicing loan portfolios and financial analysis of commercial entities.
Advanced education (Graduate degrees) in finance, business, economics, or agriculture.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Comprehensive federal health, dental, vision, and life insurance plans.
✓Generous paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays.
✓Federal retirement pension and supplemental savings plan (TSP).
✓Flexible spending accounts and long-term care insurance.
✓Supportive and diverse professional environment.
✓Potential for recruitment or relocation incentives.

💡 How to Apply Loan Specialist (Agricultural) Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Loan Specialist (Agricultural) Job

Review the full vacancy announcement carefully.
Prepare a resume that does not exceed 2 pages.
Gather supporting documentation, including college transcripts if applicable.
Click the Apply button in the USAJOBS portal.
Complete all required questionnaires and assessment steps.
Submit your application package by the closing date.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume strictly adheres to the two-page limit to avoid disqualification.
Focus your resume on accomplishments related to loan evaluation and agricultural finance.
Upload transcripts early to ensure they meet formatting requirements.
Set aside 1-2 hours for the USA Hire Assessments; do not rush the process.
Monitor your email for notifications regarding your application and assessment deadlines.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary responsibility of this role?

The Loan Specialist evaluates farm loan program activities, provides technical advice on loan making and servicing, and reviews complex loan cases.

Is travel required for this position?

Yes, this position requires some travel as part of the job responsibilities.

Can I work remotely?

This position is based in Phoenix, Arizona, and is not eligible for telework.

What if I don't have agricultural loan authority?

*A: This is a mandatory selective placement factor for this role. You must possess or have possessed this authority to qualify.*

Is there potential for promotion?

*A: Yes, this position has promotion potential to the GS-12 level based on performance and management recommendation.*

Job from Farm Service Agency

The Farm Service Agency (FSA) is committed to serving farmers, ranchers, and agricultural partners by providing the credit and support they need to succeed. Our team manages programs that ensure the health of American agriculture, from small family-owned farms to larger operations. Working here means joining a diverse, mission-driven organization that values professional development and work-life balance.