Launch Your Career in Agricultural Finance with the USDA

Are you looking for a career that combines financial analysis with the heartbeat of American industry? The USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) is currently hiring a Loan Assistant/Specialist (Agricultural) in Barron, Wisconsin. This role is a unique opportunity to provide critical financial support to farmers and ranchers while building a long-term federal career.

Job Responsibilities

As an Agricultural Loan Assistant/Specialist, your primary role is to assist the Farm Loan Manager in delivering financial services. Key duties include:

Conducting interviews with loan applicants to assess eligibility.
Analyzing financial documents, credit reports, and farm operation data.
Providing credit counseling to local farmers and ranchers.
Mastering agency programs, land valuation, and crop production economics.
Participating in on-the-job training to advance to higher grades within the agency.

Requirements

To be eligible for this position, you must meet the following criteria:

Citizenship: U.S. citizenship is mandatory.
Background: Ability to pass a federal background and fingerprint investigation.
Documentation: A resume (maximum 2 pages) and academic transcripts.
Compliance: Selective Service registration for eligible males and adherence to direct deposit requirements.

Salary Overview

This position is part of the General Schedule (GS) pay scale, offering a competitive starting salary and significant growth potential.

Grade Level	Salary Range
GS-5 to GS-9	$40,736 - $80,243 per year

Benefits

The FSA provides a holistic compensation package designed to support a healthy work-life balance, including:

Health Coverage: Access to multiple health, dental, and vision insurance plans.
Retirement: Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) and the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
Leave: Generous accrual of paid vacation, sick time, and 11 paid federal holidays.
Work-Life Balance: Eligibility for telework programs and flexible scheduling options.

Application Tips

Respect the Limit: If your resume exceeds two pages, you will be removed from consideration. Keep it focused on relevant experience.
Assessment Prep: Take the USA Hire assessment seriously. Use the practice resources provided by OPM.
Formatting: Ensure all documents are uploaded as valid, unencrypted PDFs or Word documents under 5MB.
Status Checks: Use the USAJOBS portal to track your progress and ensure you don't miss any deadlines.

Serving as a Loan Assistant/Specialist in Barron, Wisconsin, is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the stability of American agriculture. If you possess a background in finance, business, or farm management, we invite you to apply. Start your journey with the USDA today.

Why This Loan Assistant/Specialist (Agricultural) Job Matters

Shape the future of American agriculture by supporting farmers and ranchers in Wisconsin—join the Farm Service Agency as a Loan Assistant/Specialist.

Loan Assistant/Specialist (Agricultural) Job Overview

The Farm Service Agency (FSA) is seeking a dedicated professional to serve as a Loan Assistant/Specialist (Agricultural) in Barron, Wisconsin. This role is a vital entry point for those looking to build a career in agricultural finance. You will work closely with a Farm Loan Manager to deliver critical financial programs, providing technical advice, credit counseling, and loan analysis that directly supports the stability and growth of our nation's agricultural sector. This developmental position offers a structured path for growth, allowing you to gain hands-on expertise in agricultural credit and farm management.

Requirements for Loan Assistant/Specialist (Agricultural)

Must be a U.S. Citizen or U.S. National.
Must be registered with the Selective Service (if male born after 12/31/1959).
Must pass a background investigation and fingerprint check.
Completion of a 1-year probationary period is required.
Must maintain direct deposit for all federal compensation.
Successfully pass the E-Verify employment check.
Resume must not exceed two pages; longer resumes will be disqualified.
Relevant academic transcripts must be provided if qualifying via education.

Preferred Qualifications for Loan Assistant/Specialist (Agricultural)

Bachelor's degree in finance, business administration, economics, accounting, or agricultural-related fields.
Experience in agricultural, commercial, or mortgage loan review and servicing.
Knowledge of farm operations, land valuation, and crop/livestock marketing.
Superior Academic Achievement (GPA 3.0+ or upper-third class standing).
Master's degree or graduate coursework in relevant business or agricultural fields.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Federal retirement savings plan (TSP)
✓Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
✓Life insurance plans
✓Paid vacation and sick leave
✓Paid federal holidays
✓Flexible work schedules and telework eligibility
✓Flexible spending accounts
✓Long-term care insurance

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

Application Steps for Loan Assistant/Specialist (Agricultural) Job

Review the full vacancy announcement thoroughly on the official portal.
Prepare a resume that is strictly limited to two pages.
Click the Apply Online button and complete all mandatory questionnaires.
Upload required documentation, including transcripts and veteran preference forms (if applicable).
Monitor email for notifications regarding USA Hire Assessment links.
Complete the required USA Hire Assessment within the specified timeframe.
Submit your final application before 11:59 PM (ET) on the closing date.

💡 General Tips

Keep your resume concise; the two-page limit is strictly enforced.
Use the USA Hire Applicant Resource Center to practice before taking your assessments.
Ensure all uploaded documents are in accepted formats (PDF, Word, etc.) and under 5MB.
Double-check your eligibility for veteran preference and upload necessary DD214 documentation immediately.
Enable email notifications in your profile to receive updates on your application status.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the promotion potential for this position?

This role is classified as a developmental position ranging from GS-5 to GS-9, with a promotion potential to GS-11. Advancement is non-competitive based on performance and management recommendation.

Can I work remotely?

The position is eligible for telework based on agency policy; however, it is not a fully remote position and requires local presence in the Barron, Wisconsin office.

What documents are absolutely required for my application?

You must submit a two-page maximum resume and, if qualifying by education, a college transcript. If claiming veterans' preference, you must also include your DD214.

What is the promotion potential?

The position starts between GS-5 and GS-9, with potential growth up to GS-11.

Is relocation covered?

Recruitment or relocation incentives may be authorized, but are determined on a case-by-case basis.

Job from Farm Service Agency

The Farm Service Agency (FSA) is a vital branch of the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Our mission is to ensure the economic stability of the American agricultural sector. We provide essential loan programs that help producers start, expand, and maintain their operations. Working at the FSA means you are a key player in supporting rural economies, managing risk, and promoting a diverse, professional environment.