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 American agricultural sector? The Farm Service Agency (FSA), an arm of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), is currently seeking a highly motivated Loan Specialist (Agricultural) to join our team in Lancaster or Darlington, Wisconsin. This role is essential to our mission of providing credit, technical assistance, and financial oversight to our nation’s farmers and ranchers.
About the Farm Service Agency
The FSA is a cornerstone of the rural American economy. Our employees work on the front lines to provide the capital, stability, and guidance necessary for agricultural producers to succeed. We take pride in a culture that fosters professional growth, work-life balance, and a deep commitment to the public good. As a member of our team, you will enjoy the stability and benefits of a federal career while working in a tight-knit community setting.
Your Role and Responsibilities
As a Loan Specialist, you will act as a consultant and financial administrator. Your daily duties will include:
- Analyzing the solvency and credit risk of agricultural operations.
- Providing technical advice and credit counseling to applicants and borrowers.
- Managing a loan portfolio with delegated approval authority.
- Advising on farm financing, production marketing, and complex business structures.
- Conducting loan collection activities in compliance with federal law.
Comparison of Qualifications
| Feature | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Minimum Education | Degree in Finance, Business, Ag Economics, or related |
| Specialized Experience | 1 Year at GS-9 level or private sector equivalent |
| Mandatory Factor | Current or past Agricultural Loan Approval Authority |
| Probationary Period | 1 Full Year |
Requirements and Qualifications
To be eligible for this GS-11 position, you must demonstrate a deep understanding of financial management within the context of agricultural business. You must be a U.S. citizen and successfully pass a thorough background check. Your academic background should be in fields like accounting, banking, economics, or farm management. If you are a current federal employee, you must ensure you meet all Time-in-Grade requirements before the application deadline.
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary range of $74,678 to $97,087 annually. Beyond the salary, the USDA offers an industry-leading benefits package, including:
- Comprehensive Federal Health Insurance programs.
- Generous retirement savings through the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
- Paid federal holidays, vacation, and sick leave.
- Flexible work arrangements and potential for relocation/recruitment bonuses.
How to Apply Successfully
Applying for a federal position requires precision. Ensure your resume does not exceed the two-page limit and explicitly details your relevant experience. After submitting your initial application, you will likely be required to complete the USA Hire assessments. Do not delay this step, as these scores are a mandatory component of the selection process.
If you have the financial acumen to support agricultural producers and the desire to serve your country in a meaningful capacity, we encourage you to apply. This role offers not just a paycheck, but the opportunity to strengthen the agricultural foundation of Wisconsin and the United States.
Why This Loan Specialist (Agricultural) Job Matters
Shape the future of American agriculture by managing vital loan programs that support local farmers and rural communities.
Loan Specialist (Agricultural) Job Overview
The Farm Service Agency (FSA) is seeking a dedicated Loan Specialist to serve in our Lancaster or Darlington, Wisconsin offices. This role is pivotal in helping agricultural operations thrive by administering federal farm loan programs, providing expert credit counseling, and performing critical financial analysis. You will work directly with farmers and ranchers to ensure they have the financial tools necessary for success, all while supporting the broader mission of the USDA.
Requirements for Loan Specialist (Agricultural)
- U.S. Citizenship or National status.
- Registration with the Selective Service (if born after 12/31/1959).
- Must pass a background investigation and fingerprint check.
- Ability to obtain and maintain Agricultural Loan Approval Authority.
- Must undergo a 1-year probationary period.
- Completion of a Confidential Financial Disclosure Report (OGE-450).
- One year of specialized experience at the GS-9 level or equivalent.
- Possession of a valid degree or qualifying combination of education and experience.
Preferred Qualifications for Loan Specialist (Agricultural)
- Experience in reviewing and approving agricultural, commercial, or mortgage loans.
- Strong understanding of farm operations, livestock production, and crop markets.
- Expertise in financial analysis, debt management, and bankruptcy laws.
- Demonstrated ability to perform loan collection activities and risk assessment.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Generous federal leave package including paid vacation and sick time.
- ✓Comprehensive health, dental, vision, and life insurance plans.
- ✓Retirement and supplemental savings plan (TSP).
- ✓Flexible work schedules and telework opportunities.
- ✓Potential for recruitment or relocation incentives.
- ✓Professional environment with clear growth and development paths.
💡 How to Apply Loan Specialist (Agricultural) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Loan Specialist (Agricultural) Job
- Review the full vacancy announcement details.
- Prepare a resume that is strictly limited to two pages.
- Gather college transcripts and relevant supporting documents.
- Click the Apply button on the official portal to begin the questionnaire.
- Complete the required USA Hire Assessments within the allotted timeframe.
- Submit your final package before the 11:59 PM ET closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume specifically highlights your agricultural lending experience.
- Use the USA Hire practice assessments available on the OPM website to prepare.
- Double-check that all uploaded documents are under 5MB and in supported formats.
- Monitor your email for notifications regarding assessment links or status updates.
- Tailor your resume to reflect the major duties mentioned in the announcement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work remotely for this position?
This position is eligible for telework as determined by agency policy; however, it is not a fully remote position and requires physical presence for site visits and office duties.
What is the Mandatory Selective Placement Factor?
For the GS-11 grade level, applicants must possess or have previously held 'Agricultural Loan Approval Authority' to qualify for this role.