Launch Your Career as an Agricultural Loan Specialist with the FSA
Are you looking for a career that combines financial expertise with a passion for supporting the backbone of the American economy? The Farm Service Agency (FSA) is seeking a motivated professional to serve as an Agricultural Loan Specialist in Stephenville, Texas. This position offers a unique chance to help farmers and ranchers secure the financial resources they need to thrive.
About the Farm Service Agency
The Farm Service Agency is a dedicated branch of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). Our mission is to promote the long-term health and vitality of American agriculture. By working here, you join a professional, inclusive team committed to providing essential financial assistance and stability to the agricultural community. We offer a balanced work environment that prioritizes family-friendly policies and long-term career growth.
Job Responsibilities
As a Loan Specialist, you will operate in a developmental capacity, receiving both classroom and on-the-job training. Your daily duties will include:
- Applicant Interviews: Conducting thorough reviews of loan applications and assessing applicant eligibility.
- Credit Counseling: Providing expert technical advice and credit guidance to help borrowers manage their operations successfully.
- Portfolio Servicing: Overseeing existing loans to ensure compliance and fiscal health.
- Program Administration: Applying complex agency regulations to support various farm loan programs.
Qualifications Comparison Table
| Level | Experience/Education Requirement |
|---|---|
| GS-09 | 1 year of specialized experience at GS-07 OR Master's degree/2 years graduate study. |
| GS-11 | 1 year of specialized experience at GS-09 OR Ph.D./3 years graduate study. |
Note: For the GS-11 level, possession of Agricultural Loan Approval Authority is mandatory.
Requirements
To be considered for this role, you must meet several federal eligibility requirements, including U.S. citizenship and selective service registration (if applicable). Additionally, you must be prepared for a background check and, if selected for the GS-11 grade, must demonstrate your previous loan approval authority. Strong skills in reasoning, customer service, and attention to detail are critical for success in this environment.
Salary and Benefits
The salary range for this position is $61,722 to $97,087 annually. Beyond the base pay, the FSA provides an industry-leading benefits package:
- Insurance: Comprehensive options for health, vision, dental, and life coverage.
- Retirement: Access to the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- Leave: Ample paid vacation and sick time, plus federal holidays.
- Growth: Flexible schedules and clear paths for non-competitive promotions.
How to Apply
Applying for a federal position requires careful attention to detail. Ensure your resume is exactly two pages or less and highlights your relevant experience in finance, credit analysis, or agriculture. Use the official USAJOBS portal to submit your application, including all required transcripts and supporting documents. If prompted, complete the USA Hire assessments promptly to ensure your application remains in the running.
If you are ready to apply your financial skills to a mission-driven career, we encourage you to apply for the Agricultural Loan Specialist position in Stephenville. Your contribution will directly support the farmers who provide for our nation. Review the announcement requirements thoroughly and submit your application before the closing date to join our team.
Why This Loan Specialist (Agricultural) Job Matters
Launch a rewarding career in agricultural finance and directly impact the vitality of the American farming industry in Stephenville, Texas.
Loan Specialist (Agricultural) Job Overview
The Farm Service Agency (FSA) is seeking a dedicated Loan Specialist to join our District 8 team in Stephenville, Texas. In this vital role, you will assist the Farm Loan Manager in administering comprehensive farm loan programs, providing essential credit counseling to farmers and ranchers, and ensuring the fiscal health of agricultural operations in the region. This position offers a structured developmental pathway with on-the-job training, making it an excellent opportunity for professionals passionate about the intersection of finance and agriculture.
Requirements for Loan Specialist (Agricultural)
- Must be a U.S. Citizen or U.S. National.
- Males born after 12/31/1959 must be registered with Selective Service.
- Must pass a background investigation and/or fingerprint check.
- Completion of a 1-year probationary period is required.
- Must have direct deposit for all federal salary payments.
- Ability to successfully pass an E-Verify employment check.
- Commitment to submitting a Confidential Financial Disclosure Report (OGE-450) annually.
- For GS-11: Must possess or have possessed Agricultural Loan Approval Authority.
Preferred Qualifications for Loan Specialist (Agricultural)
- Advanced academic background in finance, business administration, economics, accounting, or agricultural management.
- Demonstrated professional experience in analyzing loan applications and servicing agricultural or commercial portfolios.
- Solid understanding of farm operations, land valuation, and regional crop/livestock market dynamics.
- Strong interpersonal skills for effective credit counseling and stakeholder communication.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive health, dental, vision, and life insurance plans.
- ✓Generous paid vacation and sick leave, plus federal holidays.
- ✓Retirement savings program (FERS) with matching contributions.
- ✓Flexible work schedules and telework eligibility.
- ✓Opportunities for professional career advancement and training.
- ✓Potential for recruitment or relocation incentives.
💡 How to Apply Loan Specialist (Agricultural) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Loan Specialist (Agricultural) Job
- Prepare a resume that is strictly limited to two pages.
- Gather your academic transcripts to verify eligibility.
- Submit your application through the official USAJOBS portal by the closing date.
- Complete the required USA Hire assessments within the provided window.
- Monitor your status and email notifications via your USAJOBS account.
💡 General Tips
- Double-check that your resume does not exceed the two-page limit, as longer resumes will be automatically rejected.
- Ensure your transcript clearly shows course numbers, credit hours, and grades to avoid delays.
- Use the USA Hire practice assessments available on the OPM website to prepare.
- Upload all supporting documents in one of the allowed formats (PDF, DOCX, TXT, etc.) and ensure files are under 5MB.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary function of an Agricultural Loan Specialist?
You will interview applicants, evaluate loan eligibility, provide credit counseling, and manage servicing activities for various agricultural loan programs.
Can I work remotely in this position?
This position is eligible for telework, depending on specific agency policy and local requirements.
Is a security clearance required?
A high-level clearance is not required; however, you will be subject to a background check and financial disclosure requirements.
Is this a desk-bound job?
While much of the work involves financial analysis, you will also be interacting with the agricultural community and assessing land and operations.
Can I get promoted?
Yes, this position has promotion potential up to the GS-11 level based on performance and management recommendation.