Launch Your Career as a Loan Analyst with the Farm Service Agency
Are you looking for a meaningful career that bridges the gap between financial analysis and the backbone of the American economy—agriculture? The U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) is currently hiring dedicated individuals for the Loan Analyst position in Montana. This role is perfect for those who possess strong analytical skills and a desire to contribute to the financial health of our nation's farmers and ranchers.
Job Responsibilities
As a Loan Analyst, your primary role is to provide support to Farm Loan Managers and Officers. Your daily responsibilities will include:
- Loan Processing: Assisting with the closing, disbursement, and liquidation of agricultural loans.
- Financial Evaluation: Performing in-depth analysis to assess credit risk and loan soundness.
- Program Support: Formulating and implementing policies to ensure the effective delivery of farm loan programs.
- Collaboration: Working alongside district directors and loan staff to monitor and service existing loan accounts.
Comparison of Qualifications
| Level | Specialized Experience/Education Required |
|---|---|
| GS-5 | 3 years general experience OR Bachelor's degree |
| GS-7 | 1 year specialized experience OR 1 year graduate education |
| GS-9 | 1 year specialized experience OR Master's degree |
Requirements
To be eligible, you must be a U.S. citizen and meet specific background investigation requirements. Applicants must ensure their resume is exactly two pages or fewer and includes all requested work history details. If utilizing education to qualify, accredited transcripts must be provided.
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive salary range of $40,736 to $80,243 per year, commensurate with your experience level and qualifications (GS-5 to GS-9 scale).
Benefits
Working for the federal government provides a robust benefits package, including:
- Extensive health, dental, and vision insurance options.
- Retirement savings programs (TSP).
- Generous paid annual and sick leave.
- Professional development and advancement potential.
Application Tips
- Tailor Your Resume: Highlight experience related to financial analysis and credit management.
- Check Your Documents: Ensure all files are in valid formats (PDF/DOCX) and under 5MB.
- Assessments: Complete the USA Hire Assessment within the required timeframe to remain eligible.
- Double Check: Verify all information before hitting the submit button.
Serving as a Loan Analyst with the FSA is a rewarding career path. If you are detail-oriented, analytical, and eager to support American agriculture, apply today to start your federal journey.
Why This Loan Analyst Job Matters
Shape the future of American agriculture by supporting essential financial services that empower local farmers and ranchers.
Loan Analyst Job Overview
The Farm Service Agency (FSA) is seeking a dedicated Loan Analyst to join our team in Montana. This role is pivotal in supporting our Farm Loan Managers and Officers as they facilitate lending activities, monitor agricultural credit, and ensure the effective delivery of farm loan programs. This is an excellent opportunity to build a career in federal service while contributing directly to the stability and growth of the agricultural community.
Requirements for Loan Analyst
- U.S. Citizenship or National status.
- Registration with the Selective Service for males born after 12/31/1959.
- Ability to pass a background investigation and/or fingerprint check.
- Completion of a one-year probationary period.
- Agreement to receive salary payments via direct deposit.
- Successful completion of the E-Verify employment check.
- Submission of all required documents, including a resume limited to two pages.
Preferred Qualifications for Loan Analyst
- Professional experience in financial analysis, credit risk assessment, or agricultural lending.
- Strong analytical skills related to fact-finding and investigative techniques.
- Demonstrated ability to effectively communicate complex financial information.
- Graduate-level education in finance, business, economics, or agricultural management.
- Academic excellence (Superior Academic Achievement) for entry-level grade considerations.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health, dental, and vision insurance plans.
- ✓Paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays.
- ✓Participation in the federal retirement system and supplemental savings plans.
- ✓Life insurance and flexible spending accounts.
- ✓Professional, diverse, and inclusive work environment.
- ✓Access to flexible scheduling options.
💡 How to Apply Loan Analyst Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Loan Analyst Job
- Prepare a resume that is strictly two pages or fewer.
- Gather necessary documentation, such as college transcripts or DD214 forms.
- Click the Apply Online button on the official vacancy page.
- Complete the online application questionnaire and upload all required documents.
- Monitor email for instructions regarding the mandatory USA Hire Assessments.
- Complete the assessment within the designated timeframe.
- Review your application status via your USAJOBS account.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume explicitly details work history, including hours per week and specific dates of employment.
- Double-check that all uploaded documents are under 5MB and in accepted formats (PDF, TXT, DOCX, etc.).
- Set aside 1-2 hours of uninterrupted time to complete the USA Hire Assessments.
- Use the practice resources available on the USA Hire Applicant Resource Center.
- Submit your application well before the 11:59 PM ET deadline to avoid technical issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I submit an unofficial transcript?
Yes, an unofficial transcript is sufficient for the initial application, but official transcripts will be required upon selection.
Is this position eligible for telework?
No, this specific position is not eligible for telework.
What is the page limit for the resume?
The resume must not exceed two pages. Applications exceeding this limit will be disqualified.
What is the probation period?
New federal employees must complete a 1-year probationary period.
Where are the positions located?
Locations include Billings, Chinook, and Ronan, Montana.
Job from Farm Service Agency
The Farm Service Agency (FSA) is a vital part of the USDA, tasked with implementing policies and programs that support the agricultural sector. As a Loan Analyst, you will be part of a team committed to providing essential financial support, credit resources, and program management. The FSA prides itself on a culture that promotes professional development, work-life balance, and a diverse, supportive work environment.