Launch Your Career in Agricultural Finance with the USDA
Are you looking for a career that combines financial expertise with a mission to support the backbone of the American economy? The Farm Service Agency (FSA), a branch of the USDA, is currently seeking a talented Loan Assistant or Loan Specialist to join our team in Wisconsin. This role is perfect for detail-oriented individuals who are eager to learn the complexities of agricultural lending and provide essential services to our nation's farmers.
About the Farm Service Agency
The Farm Service Agency serves as the eyes, ears, and financial lifeline of American agriculture. Our mission is to promote the long-term health of the agricultural industry by providing credit, conservation, and commodity programs. We pride ourselves on fostering a professional environment where employees are encouraged to grow, balance their work-life needs, and contribute to meaningful public service.
Key Job Responsibilities
As a Loan Assistant or Specialist, your day-to-day duties will be varied and impactful:
- Financial Interviewing: Engage with loan applicants to gather facts and assess credit eligibility.
- Technical Advice: Provide guidance to farmers and ranchers on loan options, repayment strategies, and financial management.
- Risk Management: Analyze financial documents and credit reports to determine the viability of loan requests.
- Portfolio Oversight: Service existing loan accounts to ensure adherence to agency requirements and support borrower success.
Qualifications and Requirements
To be eligible, you must meet specific education and experience requirements. Depending on the grade level, candidates should have a background in finance, accounting, or agricultural sciences.
Comparison of Qualification Pathways
| Requirement Type | Focus Area | Expected Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Education | Finance/Ag Economics | Meets base requirements for entry |
| Specialized Experience | Agricultural Loans | Allows for higher starting GS grade |
| Combination | Education & Experience | Flexible entry for varied backgrounds |
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary range of $40,736 to $80,243 per year. Beyond the salary, the USDA offers one of the most comprehensive benefits packages in the country, including:
- Health and Wellness: Access to top-tier health, dental, and vision insurance.
- Retirement Planning: Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) and the Thrift Savings Plan.
- Work-Life Balance: Generous paid leave, federal holidays, and telework options.
Application Tips for Success
- Mind the Limits: Your resume must be two pages or less. Submissions exceeding this will be disqualified.
- Documentation Matters: Ensure your transcripts clearly display your name, courses, and credits. If a course title is obscure, provide a syllabus.
- Stay Proactive: Monitor your email for the USA Hire assessment link—completing these timely is critical to your candidacy.
Working for the USDA Farm Service Agency is more than a job; it is a commitment to the vitality of rural America. If you have the drive to learn, the aptitude for finance, and a passion for public service, apply today to start your journey in Wisconsin.
Why This Loan Assistant/Specialist (Agricultural) Job Matters
Launch a meaningful career supporting American agriculture. Help local farmers thrive as a Loan Assistant/Specialist with the USDA Farm Service Agency.
Loan Assistant/Specialist (Agricultural) Job Overview
The USDA Farm Service Agency is seeking a dedicated individual to join our team in Wisconsin. This position offers a unique opportunity to grow within the federal service while directly impacting the stability of local farming operations. As a Loan Assistant or Specialist, you will work within a collaborative Service Center environment, gaining hands-on experience in financial analysis, credit counseling, and the administration of vital agricultural loan programs.
Requirements for Loan Assistant/Specialist (Agricultural)
- Must be a U.S. Citizen or U.S. National.
- Must be registered with the Selective Service if born after 12/31/1959.
- Ability to pass a background investigation and fingerprint check.
- Must complete a one-year probationary period.
- Must possess a valid bank account for direct deposit of federal salary.
- Successfully pass an E-Verify employment check.
Preferred Qualifications for Loan Assistant/Specialist (Agricultural)
- Bachelor's degree in finance, business administration, economics, accounting, or related fields.
- Previous professional experience in loan processing, credit risk assessment, or agricultural management.
- Strong proficiency in financial analysis and data interpretation.
- Demonstrated ability to communicate complex information clearly to the public.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Paid vacation and sick leave
- ✓Federal holidays
- ✓Retirement and supplemental savings plans
- ✓Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
- ✓Life insurance
- ✓Flexible spending accounts
- ✓Long-term care insurance
- ✓Telework opportunities
💡 How to Apply Loan Assistant/Specialist (Agricultural) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Loan Assistant/Specialist (Agricultural) Job
- Review the full announcement carefully.
- Prepare a resume that does not exceed two pages.
- Gather supporting documents including college transcripts.
- Click the Apply Online button to access the official portal.
- Complete the online questionnaire and attach all required documentation.
- Submit your application package before 11:59 PM ET on the closing date.
- Monitor your email for links to required USA Hire Assessments.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume concise; the two-page limit is strictly enforced.
- Ensure your transcript includes course titles and credit hours for accurate qualification evaluation.
- Double-check your email notifications after submitting; you may have assessment deadlines.
- Use the USA Hire Applicant Resource Center to practice before your formal testing.
- Verify that your uploaded documents are not encrypted and are in a compatible file format.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work remotely?
This position is eligible for telework as determined by agency policy, but it is not a fully remote position.
Is there room for advancement?
Yes, this position has a promotion potential up to the GS-11 grade level, providing a clear path for professional growth.
What is the promotion potential for this role?
While you may start at a GS-5, 7, or 9 level, this position has promotion potential up to GS-11, allowing for career progression.
Are there relocation benefits?
Recruitment and relocation incentives may be authorized for qualified candidates.