Launch Your Career as a Farm Loan Officer with the USDA
Are you looking for a career that combines financial expertise with a passion for supporting the backbone of the American economy? The Farm Service Agency (FSA) is currently hiring for the position of Farm Loan Officer. This role is an excellent opportunity for finance professionals to make a tangible impact on the success of local agricultural operations in Washington State.
Job Responsibilities
As a Farm Loan Officer, you will serve as a vital link between the government and the agricultural community. Your core responsibilities will include:
- Loan Portfolio Management: Monitoring and servicing loans to ensure ongoing financial health.
- Credit Counseling: Providing technical advice and guidance to applicants and borrowers.
- Financial Analysis: Assessing the solvency and risk associated with agricultural operations.
- Program Administration: Executing loan programs according to federal guidelines.
Requirements
To qualify for this position, applicants must meet specific federal standards.
Basic Eligibility
- Citizenship: Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Education: A degree in a relevant field such as finance, economics, business administration, or agricultural management.
- Experience: One year of specialized experience at the next lower grade level equivalent to federal standards.
- Assessment: Must complete the mandatory USA Hire assessment.
Comparison of Qualifications
| Level | Education Requirement | Experience Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| GS-09 | Master's degree or 2 years graduate study | 1 year specialized experience |
| GS-11 | PhD or 3 years graduate study | 1 year specialized experience + Approval Authority |
Salary Overview
The salary for this position ranges from $62,044 to $97,593 per year, depending on the specific location and locality pay adjustments applicable within Washington state.
Benefits
Working for the federal government comes with an industry-leading benefits package:
- Retirement: Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- Health: Wide array of insurance plans (health, dental, vision).
- Leave: Generous annual and sick leave accruals.
- Flexibility: Telework options and flexible scheduling.
Application Tips
- Resume Management: Your resume is your most important document. Keep it to two pages and clearly link your experience to the duties mentioned.
- Assessment Readiness: Do not delay taking the USA Hire assessments. Many qualified candidates are removed from consideration simply for missing the assessment deadline.
- Documentation: Ensure all transcripts are official copies or include clear course information to avoid delays in processing.
The position of Farm Loan Officer offers a unique blend of financial responsibility and community impact. If you have the skills to analyze credit and a heart for American agriculture, we encourage you to apply.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I work from home? A: Yes, this position is eligible for telework as determined by agency policy.
Q: What if I don't have agricultural experience? A: While agricultural knowledge is highly preferred, experience in commercial lending or mortgage banking is often highly transferable.
Q: Is relocation assistance offered? A: Recruitment and/or relocation incentives may be authorized for qualified candidates.
Why This Farm Loan Officer (Agricultural) Job Matters
Shape the future of American agriculture by managing critical loan programs that help local farmers and ranchers thrive.
Farm Loan Officer (Agricultural) Job Overview
The Farm Service Agency (FSA) is seeking a dedicated Farm Loan Officer to support agricultural operations across Washington State. In this role, you will assist the Farm Loan Manager in delivering essential financial services, providing credit counseling, and ensuring the success of agricultural enterprises through sound financial management and program administration.
Requirements for Farm Loan Officer (Agricultural)
- U.S. Citizenship or National status
- Registration with the Selective Service (for males born after 12/31/1959)
- Successful completion of a background investigation and fingerprint check
- Ability to serve a 1-year probationary period
- Must be able to receive federal payments via direct deposit
- Successfully pass an E-Verify employment check
- Maintain high standards of integrity, professional conduct, and financial accountability
- For GS-11: Must possess or have possessed Agricultural Loan Approval Authority
Preferred Qualifications for Farm Loan Officer (Agricultural)
- Professional experience in agricultural, commercial, or mortgage lending
- Demonstrated ability to perform financial analysis for investment or credit purposes
- Experience in real estate appraisal for property valuation
- Understanding of farm operations, land use, and crop/livestock production economics
- Knowledge of federal financial regulations, bankruptcy laws, and income tax statutes
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Federal retirement plan including pension and Thrift Savings Plan (401k equivalent)
- ✓Comprehensive health, dental, vision, and life insurance options
- ✓Paid federal holidays, vacation time, and sick leave
- ✓Flexible work schedules and telework eligibility
- ✓Opportunities for professional career development and promotion
- ✓Flexible spending accounts
💡 How to Apply Farm Loan Officer (Agricultural) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Farm Loan Officer (Agricultural) Job
- Review the full vacancy announcement carefully to ensure you meet all requirements.
- Prepare a resume that does not exceed two pages, highlighting relevant financial and agricultural experience.
- Log in to your USAJOBS account to start the application process.
- Complete the required online questionnaires.
- Submit your application and all supporting documentation (transcripts, SF-50s, etc.) by the closing date.
- Monitor your email for a notification containing the link to the mandatory USA Hire Assessments.
- Complete the USA Hire assessment within the designated window.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume concise and strictly under the two-page limit to avoid automatic disqualification.
- Ensure your transcripts are legible and clearly show your name and relevant coursework.
- Set aside 1-2 hours for the USA Hire assessment and take it as soon as you receive the link.
- Use the 'Track this application' feature in USAJOBS to keep tabs on your status.
- Verify that all uploaded documents are in accepted formats (PDF, JPG, DOC, etc.) and are not encrypted.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary role of a Farm Loan Officer?
You will provide technical advice and credit counseling, manage a loan portfolio, perform financial analysis of farming operations, and process loan applications to support the financial viability of agricultural businesses.
Are there specific education requirements for this position?
Yes, candidates typically need a degree in finance, business administration, economics, accounting, engineering, mathematics, banking, law, or agricultural-related fields. A combination of specialized experience and education is also acceptable.
What is the purpose of the USA Hire assessment?
It evaluates critical general competencies such as reasoning, reading comprehension, and attention to detail. You must meet the cut score to remain eligible for consideration.
Job from Farm Service Agency
The Farm Service Agency is a mission-driven organization within the Department of Agriculture. FSA is committed to the well-being of American agriculture and the rural communities that sustain it. Working here means being part of a diverse, collaborative team that values professional growth, work-life balance, and public service.