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 heart of the American economy? The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) is currently accepting applications for the position of Loan Assistant/Specialist in New Mexico. This is a unique opportunity to play a hands-on role in sustaining the livelihoods of farmers and ranchers while building a robust career within the federal government.

Job Responsibilities

As a Loan Assistant/Specialist, you will act as a bridge between the USDA and the agricultural community. Your primary duties will include:

Application Review: Conducting interviews with potential loan applicants and reviewing applications to assess eligibility.
Financial Guidance: Providing technical credit counseling to borrowers, ensuring they understand the requirements of their loans.
Credit Analysis: Applying financial management concepts to determine the soundness of loan requests.
Market Assessment: Evaluating farm operations, land values, and regional crop/livestock production cycles to make informed lending decisions.
Program Administration: Supporting the Farm Loan Manager in day-to-day operations at the Service Center.

Requirements

To be considered for this role, candidates must meet specific federal requirements:

Requirement Type	Specification
Citizenship	Must be a U.S. Citizen or National
Background Check	Subject to security and fingerprint adjudication
Probation	1-year trial period for new federal employees
Documentation	2-page resume limit; transcripts required for education-based applications

Applicants should also be prepared to demonstrate competency in general financial analysis or relevant experience in loan processing. Education in fields like accounting, economics, or agriculture is highly preferred.

Salary and Benefits

This position offers a competitive salary range of $40,736 to $80,243 per year, depending on experience and qualifications. Beyond the salary, federal employees enjoy an extensive benefits package designed to support personal and professional well-being, including:

Competitive health, dental, and vision insurance.
A robust federal retirement plan (TSP).
Generous annual leave and sick leave accrual.
Opportunities for flexible work schedules and telework.

Application Tips

Applying for a federal position can be competitive. Follow these steps to improve your chances:

Tailor Your Resume: Ensure your experience sections clearly outline how your past work relates to the "Major Duties" listed.
Check Your Formatting: The two-page limit is strictly enforced. If your resume exceeds this, you will be removed from consideration.
Prepare for Assessments: If you are required to complete the USA Hire Assessments, do not rush. Take advantage of the practice resources provided by the OPM.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What is the promotion potential for this job? A: This position has promotion potential up to the GS-11 grade, allowing for career growth as you gain experience and fulfill performance requirements.

Q: Where are these positions located? A: There are two openings: one in Clovis, NM, and one in Las Cruces, NM.

Working for the Farm Service Agency is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the vitality of the American landscape. If you possess a keen eye for financial detail and a desire to serve your community, we encourage you to submit your application before the closing date. This could be the start of your rewarding journey with the federal government.

Why This Loan Assistant/Specialist (Agricultural) Job Matters

Launch your career in agricultural finance with the USDA Farm Service Agency and help support the backbone of the American economy.

Loan Assistant/Specialist (Agricultural) Job Overview

The USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) is seeking two dedicated individuals to serve as Loan Assistants/Specialists in Clovis and Las Cruces, New Mexico. In this vital role, you will work within the District 3 Service Center to support the Farm Loan Manager. You will be responsible for administering federal farm loan programs, assisting applicants through the eligibility process, and providing technical guidance to ensure agricultural success in your community. This is an excellent opportunity for those passionate about financial analysis, rural development, and supporting the agricultural sector.

Requirements for Loan Assistant/Specialist (Agricultural)

Must be a U.S. Citizen or National.
Males born after 12/31/1959 must be registered with the Selective Service.
Must pass a background investigation and fingerprint check.
Completion of a one-year probationary period.
Direct deposit of federal salary payments is mandatory.
Successfully pass an E-Verify employment check.
Resume must not exceed two pages in length.

Preferred Qualifications for Loan Assistant/Specialist (Agricultural)

Degree in finance, business administration, economics, accounting, or agricultural-related fields.
Direct experience reviewing and processing agricultural, commercial, or mortgage loans.
Strong understanding of farm operations, land valuation, and crop/livestock production cycles.
Knowledge of credit principles and the ability to assess loan soundness independently.
Superior Academic Achievement (GPA 3.0+ or upper third of graduating class) for entry-level applicants.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.
✓Generous paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays.
✓Retirement savings plan (TSP) with government matching.
✓Flexible work schedules and telework eligibility.
✓Professional development and training opportunities.
✓Life and long-term care insurance options.

💡 How to Apply Loan Assistant/Specialist (Agricultural) Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Loan Assistant/Specialist (Agricultural) Job

Review the full vacancy announcement details carefully.
Prepare a resume that is strictly limited to two pages.
Gather academic transcripts if qualifying based on education.
Click the official application link to initiate the process.
Complete the required questionnaire and upload all supporting documents.
Submit your application before the 11:59 PM ET deadline on the closing date.
Complete the USA Hire Assessments if prompted via email.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume clearly highlights your work history, duties, and hours worked per week.
Use the USA Hire Applicant Resource Center to practice before taking your assessments.
Verify that your uploaded documents are under 5MB and in supported formats (e.g., PDF, TXT, Word).
Double-check your application status in the USAJOBS portal to confirm all documents transferred correctly.
Do not include personal photos or excessive personal data in your resume.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I apply if I do not have a background in agriculture?

Yes, if you have relevant experience in fields like finance, business, accounting, or banking, you may still qualify if your skills demonstrate the ability to analyze financial risk.

Is this position eligible for telework?

Yes, this position is eligible for telework, subject to agency policy and management approval.

What is the maximum page length for my resume?

Your resume must be no longer than two pages. Applications with resumes exceeding this limit will be disqualified.

Job from Farm Service Agency

The Farm Service Agency (FSA) is a critical component of the USDA, dedicated to the success of American agriculture. FSA delivers efficient, effective agricultural programs for all Americans, including farmers, ranchers, and rural communities. By providing financial resources and technical support, the agency ensures that the food, fiber, and fuel produced on American farms remains a cornerstone of the global economy. Employees enjoy a culture of collaboration, work-life balance, and clear paths for professional advancement.