Launch Your Career as a Farm Loan Specialist with the USDA
Are you looking for a career that combines financial acumen with a passion for supporting the backbone of our nation—the agricultural community? The USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) is currently hiring a Farm Loan Specialist to work out of our service centers in Janesville or Monroe, Wisconsin. This role is a unique opportunity to play a vital part in sustaining local farms while growing your professional career within the federal government.
Job Responsibilities
As a Farm Loan Specialist, you will act as a bridge between financial requirements and agricultural success. Key responsibilities include:
- Portfolio Management: Overseeing and servicing agricultural loan portfolios.
- Financial Counseling: Providing technical advice and credit counseling to applicants and existing borrowers.
- Loan Approval: Exercising delegated authority to approve loans within specified limits.
- Analysis: Assessing credit risk, farm operations, and the solvency of agricultural enterprises.
- Market Insight: Maintaining knowledge of crop production, livestock markets, and land values.
Requirements
To qualify for this position, you must be a U.S. citizen and meet the specialized experience or educational requirements.
| Qualification Type | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Specialized Experience | 1 year of experience equivalent to GS-9 level |
| Education | 3 years of graduate study or Ph.D. in finance/ag-related field |
| Selective Factor | Must possess Agricultural Loan Approval Authority |
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary range of $74,678 to $97,087 per year. Beyond the salary, federal employment includes:
- Comprehensive health insurance and life coverage.
- Generous vacation, sick leave, and paid federal holidays.
- Retirement savings programs, including the Thrift Savings Plan.
- Flexible telework options.
Application Tips
- Respect the Limit: Your resume must be two pages or less. Submissions exceeding this are automatically disqualified.
- Documentation: Ensure all transcripts are legible and include course titles and grades.
- Assessments: Be prepared to complete the USA Hire assessment within the required timeframe after applying.
If you have a background in finance or agriculture and a desire to contribute to the prosperity of the American farmer, this role is the perfect next step. Apply today to help us continue the mission of the Farm Service Agency in Wisconsin.
Why This Farm Loan Specialist (Agricultural) Job Matters
Empower American Agriculture: Join the Farm Service Agency as a Farm Loan Specialist and directly influence the financial health of local farming operations.
Farm Loan Specialist (Agricultural) Job Overview
The Farm Service Agency (FSA) is seeking a dedicated professional to serve as a Farm Loan Specialist in Janesville or Monroe, Wisconsin. This vital role supports the Farm Loan Manager by administering credit programs, analyzing agricultural financial structures, and providing essential guidance to farmers. You will play a key part in the success of our nation's agricultural sector by evaluating loan eligibility and managing loan portfolios to foster sustainable farming practices.
Requirements for Farm Loan Specialist (Agricultural)
- U.S. Citizenship or National status
- Must be registered with the Selective Service (males born after 12/31/1959)
- Successful completion of a background investigation and fingerprint check
- One-year probationary period
- Possession of Agricultural Loan Approval Authority
- Must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-9 level
- Direct deposit enrollment for federal pay
- Submission of OGE-450 Financial Disclosure Report
Preferred Qualifications for Farm Loan Specialist (Agricultural)
- Advanced graduate degree in finance, business, economics, or agricultural management
- Demonstrated expertise in analyzing credit risk for agricultural or commercial operations
- Proven history of managing loan collections and debt servicing
- In-depth knowledge of income tax and bankruptcy laws as they apply to agricultural businesses
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
- ✓Paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays
- ✓Retirement plans and supplemental savings programs
- ✓Flexible work schedules and telework opportunities
- ✓Life insurance options and long-term care plans
- ✓Professional development and career advancement opportunities
💡 How to Apply Farm Loan Specialist (Agricultural) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Farm Loan Specialist (Agricultural) Job
- Create or update your USAJOBS profile
- Prepare a resume not exceeding two pages
- Click the Apply Online button on the vacancy announcement
- Complete the required applicant questionnaires
- Upload transcripts and supporting documentation (PDF or Word format)
- Submit your application package by 11:59 PM ET on the closing date
- Monitor your email for the USA Hire Assessment link
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume strictly adheres to the two-page limit to avoid disqualification.
- Submit your unofficial transcripts early to ensure they meet formatting requirements.
- Set aside 1-2 hours for the USA Hire assessments after submission.
- Use the 'Track this application' feature to stay updated on your status.
- Review the agency's provided resources for practice assessments before testing.
Frequently Asked Questions
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; you will be expected to work from the service centers in Janesville or Monroe.
What is the mandatory selective placement factor?
For the GS-11 grade level, applicants must possess or have previously possessed Agricultural Loan Approval Authority.
What is the probation period?
New hires must serve a 1-year probationary period to evaluate performance and agency fit.
Is relocation assistance provided?
Relocation incentives may be authorized based on agency needs, but are not guaranteed.
Job from Farm Service Agency
The Farm Service Agency (FSA) is dedicated to the well-being of American agriculture. By providing credit, disaster assistance, and conservation programs, we ensure that farmers have the resources they need to thrive. Working at the FSA means joining a diverse, professional team that values work-life balance, family-friendly policies, and public service.