Launch Your Career in Rural Development as a Loan Specialist
Are you looking for a career that combines financial expertise with a commitment to public service? The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development agency is looking for talented individuals to serve as Commercial Loan Specialists. This role is essential to our mission of strengthening the economic foundation of rural areas across Vermont and New Hampshire.
Job Responsibilities
As a Commercial Loan Specialist, you will act as a steward of federal funds. Your day-to-day responsibilities will include:
- Review and Analysis: Evaluating loan and grant applications to ensure they meet federal eligibility standards.
- Financial Oversight: Inputting data into automated systems and analyzing the financial health of businesses and projects.
- Communication: Acting as a primary point of contact for potential borrowers, providing guidance on program requirements.
- Reporting: Preparing written recommendations for supervisors and performing annual reviews of closed loans.
Requirements
To be considered, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Citizenship: You must be a U.S. Citizen or U.S. National.
- Selective Service: Compliance with registration requirements for males born after 1959.
- Experience/Education: One year of specialized experience at the GS-07 level or a Master’s degree in a relevant field (finance, accounting, business, etc.).
- Documentation: A maximum two-page resume that clearly outlines your experience and education.
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary range of $61,722 to $90,882 annually. Beyond the paycheck, the federal benefits package is comprehensive:
| Benefit Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Insurance | Health, Dental, Vision, and Life |
| Leave | Paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays |
| Retirement | Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) and Pension options |
| Flexibility | Alternative work schedules and telework options |
Application Tips
- Format Matters: Stick strictly to the two-page limit for your resume. Longer resumes are disqualified.
- Highlight Skills: Emphasize any experience with credit reports, financial statements, or loan servicing.
- Check Status: Use the "Track my application" feature in your USAJOBS account frequently.
- Practice: Use the OPM resources to prepare for the USA Hire competency-based assessments.
Working for USDA Rural Development is an opportunity to be part of an organization that sees the direct results of its work. By managing these loan portfolios, you are helping small businesses thrive and critical infrastructure projects reach completion. Apply today to help us build a stronger, more vibrant rural America.
Why This Loan Specialist (Commercial) Job Matters
Make a lasting impact on rural prosperity by managing vital commercial loan and grant programs for the USDA.
Loan Specialist (Commercial) Job Overview
The USDA Rural Development Agency is seeking a dedicated Loan Specialist to join our team in New Hampshire or Vermont. In this role, you will play a pivotal part in strengthening rural communities by administering financial assistance for essential infrastructure, business expansion, and vital community services. If you possess a keen eye for financial analysis and a passion for public service, this position offers a dynamic environment where your work directly supports the growth and resilience of rural America.
Requirements for Loan Specialist (Commercial)
- Must be a U.S. Citizen or U.S. National.
- Must be registered with the Selective Service if born after December 31, 1959.
- Ability to successfully pass a background investigation and fingerprint check.
- Must maintain federal payments via direct deposit.
- Completion of a one-year probationary period or two-year trial period.
- Successful completion of the E-Verify employment verification process.
- Maximum two-page resume requirement.
Preferred Qualifications for Loan Specialist (Commercial)
- Experience in financial credit analysis, loan making, or loan servicing.
- Degree in finance, business administration, economics, accounting, or a related field.
- Proven ability to analyze complex financial statements and reports.
- Strong proficiency in attention to detail, interpersonal communication, and professional writing.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary structure
- ✓Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans
- ✓Generous paid vacation and sick leave
- ✓Federal retirement savings plan (TSP)
- ✓Flexible work arrangements and alternative schedules
- ✓Life insurance and long-term care insurance options
- ✓Flexible spending accounts
💡 How to Apply Loan Specialist (Commercial) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Loan Specialist (Commercial) Job
- Review the full announcement details and requirements thoroughly.
- Prepare a resume that is strictly limited to two pages.
- Click the Apply Online button and complete all mandatory questionnaires.
- Attach all required supporting documentation, including transcripts.
- Submit your application through the USAJOBS portal by the closing date.
- Check your email for instructions regarding USA Hire assessment access if notified.
- Complete any required assessments within the provided 48-hour window.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume highlights your specific experience with financial analysis or loan administration as described in the duties.
- Do not exceed the two-page resume limit, as this will result in automatic disqualification.
- Verify that all uploaded documents are under 5MB and in supported formats like PDF, TXT, or Word.
- Use the USA Hire Applicant Resource Center to practice before taking your assessments.
- Monitor your USAJOBS account to verify that your documents have successfully transferred to the agency staffing system.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the educational requirement for this role?
Applicants must meet specialized experience requirements or possess a Master’s degree (or equivalent graduate education) in a field related to the position, such as finance, accounting, or business administration.
Can I work remotely?
The position is not remote, though it may be eligible for flexible work arrangements as determined by agency policy.
What happens if I don't submit my transcripts?
If your qualifications are based on education, failing to submit transcripts will result in an incomplete application and loss of consideration.
How many positions are available?
This announcement is seeking 3 total openings across the designated locations.
What is the security clearance level?
This is a non-sensitive, low-risk position, but it does require a background check and credit report.
Is there promotion potential?
Yes, this position has a promotion potential up to the GS-12 level.
Job from Agriculture, Rural Development
The USDA Rural Development agency is a powerhouse of community investment. We manage over 80 loan and grant programs focused on rural housing, business development, and utility infrastructure. Our employees are dedicated, compassionate professionals working to improve the quality of life for millions of rural Americans by facilitating the construction of health clinics, water systems, housing projects, and sustainable energy infrastructure.