Become an Agricultural Loan Specialist with the Farm Service Agency
Are you a finance professional with a heart for the American farmer? The Farm Service Agency (FSA), part of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), is looking for a skilled Loan Specialist to join its team. This role is critical in maintaining the financial health of the nation's agricultural sector. If you have experience in credit analysis, loan servicing, and agricultural management, this is your opportunity to contribute to a mission-driven organization.
Job Responsibilities
In this role, you will:
- Provide technical advice and guidance on complex loan cases.
- Review and negotiate loan applications with national office staff and legal counsel.
- Develop educational materials for the public regarding farm loan assistance.
- Analyze program activity reports to identify trends, weaknesses, and opportunities for improvement.
- Conduct training for office staff on program changes and management techniques.
Requirements
You must be a U.S. citizen, pass a background investigation, and possess the required Agricultural Loan Approval Authority (for GS-11/12 levels). Detailed transcripts are required if you are qualifying based on education.
Salary and Qualifications Comparison
| Grade Level | Education/Experience Requirement | Salary Range |
|---|---|---|
| GS-9 | Master's degree or 1 year of specialized experience | $61,722 - $116,362 |
| GS-11 | Ph.D. or 1 year of specialized experience | $61,722 - $116,362 |
| GS-12 | 1 year of specialized experience at GS-11 level | $61,722 - $116,362 |
Benefits
- Comprehensive Health/Dental/Vision Insurance
- Federal Retirement (TSP)
- Paid Leave (Vacation and Sick)
- Telework eligibility
- Career advancement opportunities
Application Tips
- Stick to the 2-page resume limit.
- Ensure your documentation is in an accepted format (PDF, Word, TXT).
- Use the practice tests at the USA Hire resource center.
- Apply well before the 11:59 PM ET deadline.
Serving as a Loan Specialist with the FSA is more than just a job; it is a way to support the backbone of America. If you meet the qualifications and are ready for a challenging and rewarding career, we encourage you to apply today.
Why This Loan Specialist (Agricultural) Job Matters
Empower American Agriculture: Join the Farm Service Agency as a Loan Specialist and play a pivotal role in the financial stability of our nation's farming communities.
Loan Specialist (Agricultural) Job Overview
The Farm Service Agency (FSA) is seeking a dedicated Loan Specialist to join the Farm Loan Program Branch in Iowa. This position offers a unique opportunity to provide expert technical guidance, evaluate complex loan portfolios, and directly impact the success of agricultural operations. You will analyze market trends, support service centers with high-level loan cases, and ensure the effective delivery of federal credit programs. This role is perfect for a financial professional looking to combine their technical expertise with a commitment to public service in the agricultural sector.
Requirements for Loan Specialist (Agricultural)
- U.S. Citizenship or National status.
- Registration with the Selective Service for males born after 12/31/1959.
- Successful adjudication of background investigation and fingerprint check.
- Completion of a one-year probationary period.
- Ability to utilize direct deposit for federal payments.
- Passing an E-Verify employment check.
- Possession of Agricultural Loan Approval Authority for GS-11 and GS-12 levels.
Preferred Qualifications for Loan Specialist (Agricultural)
- Expertise in agricultural, commercial, or mortgage loan review.
- Proven history of managing complex loan portfolios including various ownership types.
- Deep understanding of farm financing, crop production, land valuation, and regional agricultural markets.
- Advanced degree (Master's, J.D., or Ph.D.) in finance, business, economics, or related fields.
- Demonstrated ability to perform high-level financial analysis for investment or credit purposes.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive health, dental, vision, and life insurance plans.
- ✓Participation in the federal retirement and supplemental savings plan (Thrift Savings Plan).
- ✓Generous paid vacation and sick leave accrual.
- ✓Paid federal holidays.
- ✓Flexible work schedules and telework options.
- ✓Flexible spending accounts and long-term care insurance options.
💡 How to Apply Loan Specialist (Agricultural) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Loan Specialist (Agricultural) Job
- Log in to your USAJOBS profile and click the Apply button.
- Review all requirements and ensure your resume is limited to two pages.
- Answer all application questionnaires thoroughly.
- Upload required documentation, including transcripts and SF-50s for current federal employees.
- Submit your application package by 11:59 PM ET on the closing date.
- Complete the required USA Hire assessment via the link provided after initial submission.
- Monitor your status and email notifications via your USAJOBS account.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume strictly to two pages; extra pages will lead to disqualification.
- Use the USA Hire practice assessment resources to prepare for the competency-based tests.
- Ensure your transcripts are legible and clearly indicate your name and coursework.
- Double-check your eligibility for CTAP or RPL if you are a displaced employee.
- Complete your assessment within the 48-hour window provided post-submission.
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.
What happens if I submit my resume and it is three pages long?
Your application will be removed from consideration. Please ensure your resume does not exceed the two-page limit.
Do I need to submit an official transcript immediately?
You may submit an unofficial copy for the initial phase, but official transcripts will be required upon selection.
Job from Farm Service Agency
The Farm Service Agency (FSA) is a vital branch of the USDA that provides essential services to farmers, ranchers, and rural communities. By offering credit programs, conservation assistance, and price support programs, the FSA helps ensure a stable food supply. Employees benefit from a collaborative, diverse environment and a range of comprehensive federal benefits.