Embark on a Rewarding Career as an Agricultural Loan Specialist
Are you looking to merge your passion for finance with a commitment to supporting American agriculture? The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) is looking for a dedicated professional to join our team in Las Cruces, New Mexico. As a Loan Specialist, you will play a vital role in ensuring that farmers and ranchers have access to the credit they need to thrive.
Job Responsibilities
As a Loan Specialist (Agricultural), your daily responsibilities will include:
- Conducting detailed interviews with loan applicants to assess their financial situation.
- Reviewing loan applications and supporting documentation to determine eligibility.
- Providing technical guidance and credit counseling to borrowers.
- Maintaining and servicing an existing portfolio of agricultural loans.
- Analyzing farm operations, land use, and market trends to evaluate credit soundness.
Comparison of Requirements
| Feature | GS-9 Level | GS-11 Level |
|---|---|---|
| Experience Requirement | 1 Year of specialized experience equivalent to GS-7 | 1 Year of specialized experience equivalent to GS-9 |
| Educational Alternative | Master’s Degree or 2 years graduate education | Ph.D. or 3 years graduate education |
| Credit Knowledge | Fundamental understanding | Proficiency in farm financing & credit |
Requirements
To be eligible for this position, you must meet the standard federal hiring requirements, including U.S. citizenship, registration with the Selective Service (if applicable), and successful completion of a background check. You must also hold a degree in a relevant field (finance, business, economics, agriculture) or demonstrate sufficient specialized experience in financial analysis or loan administration.
Salary and Benefits
The position offers a competitive salary range of $61,722 to $97,087, depending on experience and qualifications. Beyond the base pay, the FSA offers a comprehensive benefits package, including:
- Health, Dental, and Vision coverage.
- Retirement savings plans (FERS) with government matching.
- Paid annual leave, sick leave, and federal holidays.
- Flexible work schedules and telework options to promote work-life balance.
How to Apply
Success in your application begins with thoroughness. You must submit a concise resume (max 2 pages) and all necessary transcripts through the official USAJobs platform. Please ensure your resume explicitly details your work history, including hours per week and relevant skills. Once you submit, watch your email for instructions on completing the mandatory USA Hire assessment.
If you have a background in finance or agriculture and a desire to serve your community, this position as a Loan Specialist is an exceptional next step. Don't miss this opportunity to grow with the USDA. Submit your application before the closing date to start your path toward a fulfilling federal career.
Why This Loan Specialist (Agricultural) Job Matters
Launch a impactful career in agricultural finance with the USDA Farm Service Agency in Las Cruces, New Mexico, where your work directly supports the heart of the American agricultural economy.
Loan Specialist (Agricultural) Job Overview
The USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) is seeking a motivated Loan Specialist (Agricultural) to join our team in Las Cruces, New Mexico. In this developmental role, you will assist the Farm Loan Manager in delivering essential loan programs that provide credit and technical guidance to the farming and ranching community. You will participate in a structured training program designed to build your expertise in farm financing, credit analysis, and land valuation, all while working in a supportive, professional environment committed to the long-term success of American agriculture.
Requirements for Loan Specialist (Agricultural)
- U.S. Citizenship or National status.
- Registration with Selective Service for males born after 12/31/1959.
- Ability to pass a background investigation and/or fingerprint check.
- Must be able to successfully complete a 1-year probationary period.
- Willingness to receive salary payments via direct deposit.
- Ability to pass an E-Verify employment verification check.
- Must submit a Confidential Financial Disclosure Report (OGE-450) annually.
- Resume must not exceed the two-page limit.
Preferred Qualifications for Loan Specialist (Agricultural)
- Education in finance, business administration, economics, or accounting.
- Direct experience in reviewing or servicing agricultural, commercial, or mortgage loans.
- Knowledge of farm operations, land valuation, and crop production markets.
- Demonstrated ability to perform financial analysis and interpret credit documents.
- For GS-11 applicants, proven Agricultural Loan Approval Authority is required.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive health, dental, vision, and life insurance plans.
- ✓Generous paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays.
- ✓Retirement and supplemental savings plans.
- ✓Flexible work schedules and telework options.
- ✓Professional environment with a focus on work-life balance.
💡 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 is strictly two pages or fewer.
- Click the Apply button on the USAJobs page to initiate the process.
- Complete all required online questionnaires and assessment tests.
- Upload all necessary supporting documents, including transcripts and veteran documentation if applicable.
- Submit your final application package before 11:59 PM ET on the closing date.
- Monitor your status via the USAJobs portal.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume clearly highlights your experience as it relates to the specific duties mentioned in the announcement.
- Save the USA Hire assessment link if you need to pause and return later.
- Double-check that all uploaded files are under 5MB and in supported formats like PDF or Word.
- Check your email frequently for notifications regarding your assessment and application status.
- If you require a reasonable accommodation for the assessment, request it as early as possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary responsibility of a Loan Specialist (Agricultural)?
You will help administer farm loan programs by interviewing applicants, analyzing financial data, providing credit counseling, and servicing active loan portfolios.
Is travel required for this position?
Yes, this position involves occasional travel to support the administration of loan programs within the designated service area.
Can I work remotely?
This position is eligible for telework based on agency policy; however, it is not a fully remote role.
What is the most important document to provide?
Your resume and official or unofficial transcripts are critical. Incomplete applications or those missing transcripts will lose consideration.
Will I need to relocate?
Relocation benefits are not currently offered, but the role may involve training that requires travel within the region.
Job from Farm Service Agency
The Farm Service Agency (FSA) is the heartbeat of rural support within the USDA. We are dedicated to the sustainability of the agricultural economy by providing financial assistance, managing commodity programs, and offering resources that ensure farmers can manage risk and invest in their future. Joining the FSA means becoming part of an organization that values diversity, professional growth, and the public good.