Become a Leader in Agricultural Finance with the USDA
Are you looking for a career that combines financial expertise with a mission to support the heart of the American economy? The Farm Service Agency (FSA), part of the U.S. Department of Agriculture, is looking for a Supervisory Loan Specialist to join our team in Washington State.
Job Responsibilities
As a Supervisory Loan Specialist, you will act as the primary technical authority for Farm Loan Programs. Your day-to-day will involve:
- Evaluating the eligibility and feasibility of complex agricultural loan proposals.
- Managing sensitive loan cases, including those involving foreclosure or bankruptcy.
- Providing technical guidance to loan officers and managing administrative functions.
- Collaborating with commercial lenders and community organizations to support local farmers.
Requirements
To be eligible for this role, candidates must demonstrate a solid foundation in loan management and meet specific federal requirements:
- Citizenship: Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Security: Ability to pass a Moderate Risk background investigation.
- Experience: One year of specialized experience at the GS-11 level (or equivalent) in agricultural loan operations.
- Documentation: Accurate and timely submission of all required application forms, transcripts, and service history (SF-50).
Comparison of Key Loan Specialist Functions
| Function | Focus | Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Loan Approval | Financial Risk Assessment | Sound Investment |
| Loan Servicing | Borrower Operations | Operational Stability |
| Liquidation | Recovery/Legal | Risk Mitigation |
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive salary range of $89,508 to $116,362 annually. Actual compensation is determined by the specific locality pay table for the assigned region in Washington State.
Benefits
- Comprehensive health and life insurance options.
- Generous federal retirement packages.
- Flexible schedules and telework opportunities.
- Paid time off for vacations and medical needs.
Application Tips
- Respect the Limits: Your resume must be no more than two pages. Exceeding this will lead to immediate removal from consideration.
- The Assessment Window: Once you submit your application, you will receive an invitation for the USA Hire assessment. Do not delay—this window closes 48 hours after the vacancy announcement expires.
- Clarity is King: Ensure your resume clearly outlines your experience with agricultural or commercial loans to ensure you hit the specialized experience requirements.
Serving as a Supervisory Loan Specialist at the FSA is more than just a job; it is a way to ensure the continuity of American farming. If you meet the criteria and are ready for a challenge, we encourage you to submit your application through the official portal before the deadline.
Why This Supervisory Loan Specialist (Agricultural) Job Matters
Lead the future of agricultural finance by managing vital loan programs that support the backbone of American farming in Washington State.
Supervisory Loan Specialist (Agricultural) Job Overview
The USDA Farm Service Agency is seeking a dedicated Supervisory Loan Specialist to serve as a technical authority within our Farm Loan Programs. This position is essential for ensuring the financial health of agricultural operations in Washington State, specifically serving either Pasco or Yakima. As a leader in the service center, you will balance complex financial analysis with community outreach, helping farmers navigate loan options, restructuring, and agricultural development.
Requirements for Supervisory Loan Specialist (Agricultural)
- U.S. Citizenship or National status
- Registration with the Selective Service (for males born after 12/31/1959)
- Satisfactory background investigation and fingerprint check
- Successful completion of a one-year probationary period
- Current federal employees must meet 52-week time-in-grade requirements
- Requirement to maintain Agricultural Loan Approval Authority
- Direct deposit of federal pay to a financial institution
- Successful E-Verify employment check
Preferred Qualifications for Supervisory Loan Specialist (Agricultural)
- Comprehensive understanding of agricultural finance, farm production cycles, and land valuation
- Proven experience in managing complex loan portfolios or liquidations
- Ability to analyze sensitive loan applications and provide sound technical guidance
- Strong leadership capabilities to mentor loan officers and manage program administration
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive Federal Salary
- ✓Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance Plans
- ✓Federal Retirement and Supplemental Savings Plan
- ✓Paid Vacation and Sick Leave
- ✓Paid Federal Holidays
- ✓Flexible Work Schedules and Telework Options
- ✓Flexible Spending Accounts and Long-term Care Insurance
💡 How to Apply Supervisory Loan Specialist (Agricultural) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Supervisory Loan Specialist (Agricultural) Job
- Review the full vacancy announcement thoroughly.
- Log in to your USAJOBS account to prepare your application.
- Prepare a resume that does not exceed two pages.
- Complete the online application and required questionnaires.
- Submit your application and all supporting documentation by 11:59 PM ET on the closing date.
- Complete the required USA Hire Assessments within the designated window after submission.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume strictly follows the two-page limit; submissions over two pages will be disqualified.
- Have your SF-50 and recent performance appraisals ready if you are a current or former federal employee.
- Set aside 1-2 hours for the USA Hire Assessments; you can pause and resume using your unique link.
- Ensure all uploaded documents are in accepted formats (PDF, TXT, DOC, etc.) and under 5MB.
- Double-check your email notifications in USAJOBS to stay updated on status changes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the typical work environment for this role?
You will serve as the technical authority within a USDA Service Center, interacting with lenders, producers, and community organizations to ensure the technical soundness of agricultural loan decisions.
Can I work remotely?
This position is eligible for telework according to agency policy, though it is not a fully remote position and requires local presence in the assigned duty station.
What does the USA Hire Assessment cover?
It evaluates critical general competencies, including leadership, oral communication, problem-solving, and reasoning. Meeting the cut score is mandatory for further consideration.
Job from Farm Service Agency
The Farm Service Agency is a critical component of the USDA, tasked with providing essential support to farmers and ranchers. We are a team dedicated to the long-term well-being of the agricultural community. By joining our team, you gain access to a professional environment that values work-life balance, career development, and diverse opportunities for growth.