Launch Your Career with the USDA Farm Service Agency: Loan Specialist Opportunities in Hattiesburg

Are you looking for a career that combines financial expertise with a passion for supporting the American agricultural community? The Farm Service Agency (FSA), a branch of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), is currently seeking a dedicated professional for the position of Loan Assistant/Specialist in Hattiesburg, Mississippi. This role offers a unique entry point into the federal government, providing stability, professional development, and the chance to make a tangible impact on the lives of local producers.

Job Responsibilities

In this developmental position, you will work closely with the Farm Loan Manager to provide financial services to the community. Your primary responsibilities include:

Conducting Loan Interviews: Engaging directly with applicants to gather financial data and evaluate eligibility.
Financial Analysis: Assessing credit risks and the fundamental soundness of individual loan applications.
Technical Counseling: Providing guidance to borrowers regarding farm management, credit, and repayment plans.
Loan Servicing: Managing an active portfolio of agricultural loans and monitoring compliance with federal regulations.
Market Insight: Utilizing knowledge of local crops, livestock production, and land values to make informed financial decisions.

Qualifications and Requirements

To be considered for this position, you must demonstrate a mix of educational achievement and professional capability.

Level	Requirement Type	Focus Area
GS-5	Experience/Education	General analysis or 4-year degree
GS-7	Specialized Experience	Knowledge of loan principles & farm operations
GS-9	Advanced Experience	Competence in agricultural credit assessment

All applicants must be U.S. citizens and meet the specific criteria outlined in the official vacancy announcement regarding background checks and selective service registration.

Salary and Benefits

This position offers a competitive salary range of $40,736 to $80,243 annually, depending on your experience and the assigned grade level. Beyond the paycheck, the federal government provides a comprehensive benefits package that is difficult to match in the private sector.

Health Coverage: Options for comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
Retirement: Access to the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) and the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
Time Off: Generous paid annual leave, sick leave, and federal holidays.
Work-Life Balance: Eligibility for telework and flexible work scheduling.

Application Tips

The federal application process can be rigorous. To increase your chances of success:

Resume Precision: Ensure your resume is exactly two pages or fewer.
Highlight Skills: Clearly define your experience in financial analysis, credit, or agricultural management.
Documentation: Organize your transcripts and SF-50 forms well in advance.
Assessment Preparation: Take the USA Hire assessments seriously; these are a critical component of your evaluation.

Joining the Farm Service Agency in Hattiesburg is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the vitality of American agriculture. If you are ready to apply your financial skills in a rewarding, public-service-oriented role, we encourage you to start your application today. Ensure all your documents are polished and submitted before the deadline to take the next step in your professional journey.

Why This Loan Assistant/Specialist (Agricultural) Job Matters

Shape the future of American agriculture by managing vital financial resources at the USDA Farm Service Agency.

Loan Assistant/Specialist (Agricultural) Job Overview

The Farm Service Agency (FSA) is seeking a motivated individual to serve as a Loan Assistant/Specialist in Hattiesburg, Mississippi. This role provides an exceptional opportunity to enter the federal workforce and contribute to the success of agricultural producers by managing loan portfolios and providing critical financial guidance.

Requirements for Loan Assistant/Specialist (Agricultural)

Must be a U.S. Citizen or U.S. National.
Males born after 12/31/1959 must be registered with the Selective Service.
Must pass a background investigation and fingerprint check.
Completion of a 1-year probationary period is required.
Submission of a resume not exceeding two pages.
Ability to have federal payments processed via direct deposit.

Preferred Qualifications for Loan Assistant/Specialist (Agricultural)

Bachelor's degree in finance, business administration, economics, accounting, or agricultural-related fields.
Professional experience in analyzing financial records or managing loan portfolios.
Knowledge of agricultural operations, land valuation, and commodity markets.
Superior Academic Achievement (GPA of 3.0 or higher).
Experience with credit risk assessment and financial counseling.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive federal salary with growth potential
✓Flexible work schedules and telework options
✓Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
✓Federal retirement plan and supplemental savings options
✓Paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays
✓Life insurance and 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.
Prepare a resume that is strictly limited to two pages.
Click the Apply Online button and complete the necessary questionnaires.
Upload required documentation, including college transcripts (if applicable).
Submit your application by 11:59 PM (ET) on the closing date.
Complete the required USA Hire assessments if notified via email.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume specifically addresses the major duties listed in the announcement.
Submit unofficial transcripts early to ensure you meet educational requirements.
Use the USA Hire practice assessments to familiarize yourself with the testing format.
Double-check your resume page count—applications over two pages will be disqualified.
Log in to your USAJOBS account to verify that all documents uploaded successfully.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the educational requirement for the GS-5 level?

You must have a bachelor's degree in a relevant field or three years of general experience, or a combination of both.

Can I work remotely in this position?

This position is eligible for telework as determined by agency policy, but it is not a fully remote position.

What happens if my resume exceeds two pages?

Per the announcement guidelines, applicants who submit a resume longer than two pages will be automatically removed from consideration.

Can I apply if I don't have a background in agriculture?

*A: Yes, if your background includes finance, business administration, accounting, or law, you may meet the educational requirements.*

How do I know if I qualify for the GS-9 grade level?

*A: You must demonstrate one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-07 grade level in federal service or the private sector.*

Job from Farm Service Agency

The Farm Service Agency plays a pivotal role in the American economy by providing credit to farmers and ranchers who are unable to obtain commercial financing. As a member of the FSA team, you are not just an employee; you are a partner in the success of the nation’s food supply chain. The agency prides itself on a diverse, inclusive, and professional work environment that values work-life balance and long-term career growth.