Launch Your Federal Career as a Loan Specialist with the SBA
Are you looking for a career that combines financial expertise with a genuine desire to help communities rebuild? The Small Business Administration (SBA) is currently hiring for a Loan Specialist position in Fort Worth, Texas. This is a unique opportunity to join a vital federal agency dedicated to supporting entrepreneurs and homeowners during their most critical times of need.
About the Small Business Administration
For over seven decades, the SBA has been the heartbeat of American entrepreneurship. As the leading federal advocate for small businesses, the agency provides the essential capital, federal contracting opportunities, and expert guidance needed to start, grow, and recover. Whether it is supporting daily business operations or deploying resources during declared disasters, the SBA empowers the backbone of the U.S. economy.
Job Responsibilities
As a Loan Specialist (GS-1165-11), you will be a key player at the Birmingham Disaster Loan Service Center. Your daily contributions will involve:
- Financial Analysis: Evaluating complex business financial statements and tax returns.
- Loan Lifecycle Management: Managing the servicing, collection, and liquidation of disaster-related loans.
- Problem Solving: Providing detailed, one-on-one explanations of complex loan issues to customers.
- Reporting: Maintaining accurate electronic records and utilizing statistical data to optimize loan collection processes.
- Strategic Recommendations: Preparing written assessments for charge-offs when collateral recovery is no longer feasible.
Requirements
To be considered for this role, you must meet the following criteria:
- Citizenship: Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Experience: One year of specialized experience at the GS-09 level (or equivalent) in public or private sector financial analysis.
- Education: Completion of 3 academic years of graduate-level education (or a Ph.D./LL.M.) in a relevant field may substitute for experience.
- Assessments: Must complete the USA Hire Competency Based Assessment.
Comparison Table: Qualifications Paths
| Criteria | Option A (Experience) | Option B (Education) |
|---|---|---|
| Focus | Previous specialized job duties | Higher-level degree attainment |
| Requirement | 1 year at GS-09 equivalent | 3 years of graduate study |
| Supporting Doc | Detailed resume / SF-50 | Official/Unofficial Transcripts |
Salary Overview
This position is categorized under the GS-11 pay scale, offering a highly competitive annual salary range of $81,186 to $105,547. Salary is determined based on federal pay standards and individual qualifications.
Benefits
Working for the SBA provides access to the robust federal benefits package, including:
- Comprehensive health and life insurance.
- Enrollment in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- Generous leave policies (annual and sick).
- Opportunities for professional development.
- Flexible work arrangements, including potential telework options.
Application Tips
- Be Specific: Your resume is your primary evidence of qualification. Clearly link your past duties to the specialized experience required for the GS-11 level.
- Check Documents: Double-check that all required documents, especially transcripts, are attached and readable before submitting.
- Prepare for Assessments: Clear your calendar for the USA Hire assessment as soon as you receive the notification. Having a quiet space and three hours of time is recommended.
If you have a background in finance and a desire to contribute to the nation’s economic resilience, this Loan Specialist position with the SBA is an ideal next step. Apply by the November 11th deadline to start your journey in federal service.
Why This Loan Specialist Job Matters
Launch your career in federal financial services and play a vital role in national disaster recovery with the Small Business Administration in Fort Worth.
Loan Specialist Job Overview
The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is seeking a motivated Loan Specialist to join the Birmingham Disaster Loan Service Center based in Fort Worth, Texas. In this role, you will be instrumental in managing the lifecycle of disaster-related business and home loans, providing critical financial support to individuals and enterprises navigating recovery. You will conduct in-depth financial analyses, manage complex loan portfolios, and contribute to the economic resilience of communities across the nation.
Requirements for Loan Specialist
- U.S. Citizenship.
- One year of specialized experience at the GS-09 level or equivalent.
- Completion of a 1-year probationary or 2-year trial period.
- Ability to perform in-depth analysis of financial statements and tax returns.
- Registration with the Selective Service System for applicable male applicants.
- Completion of all USA Hire competency-based assessments within 48 hours of notification.
Preferred Qualifications for Loan Specialist
- Graduate level education (Masters or Ph.D.) in finance, accounting, economics, or business administration.
- Advanced proficiency in utilizing electronic data tools for financial reporting and management.
- Strong interpersonal communication skills for handling complex customer inquiries.
- Proven experience in debt liquidation and commercial loan servicing.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance options.
- ✓Retirement savings plans including the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
- ✓Generous annual and sick leave accrual.
- ✓Flexible telework opportunities consistent with agency policy.
- ✓Professional development and career advancement potential within the federal competitive service.
💡 How to Apply Loan Specialist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Loan Specialist Job
- Log in to your USAJOBS account and initiate the application for this specific announcement.
- Upload a detailed, professional resume not exceeding two pages.
- Attach all required documentation, including official or unofficial transcripts if using education for qualification.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Monitor your email for a notification regarding the USA Hire Competency Based Assessment.
- Complete the required assessments within 48 hours of receiving access.
- Submit your final package before the closing date of November 11, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume specifically addresses the specialized experience requirements listed in the announcement; do not rely on assumptions.
- Verify that all uploaded documents are clearly legible and correctly labeled in the system.
- Set aside at least three hours of uninterrupted time to complete the USA Hire assessments once prompted.
- Check your USAJOBS application status regularly to ensure all items are received and processed correctly.
- If you are a federal employee, ensure your most recent SF-50 clearly displays your tenure and grade status.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary role of a Loan Specialist at the SBA?
You will be responsible for servicing and liquidating disaster business and home loans, which includes analyzing financial records, communicating with borrowers, and preparing recommendations for loan collections or charge-offs.
Is telework available for this position?
Yes, telework may be available consistent with SBA policies and collective bargaining agreements.
What happens if I miss the 48-hour deadline for the USA Hire assessment?
Completion of all required steps, including the assessment, is mandatory for consideration. Failure to complete the assessment within the specified timeframe will result in removal from the candidate pool.
Is this a permanent position?
The position is part of the federal competitive service and includes a probationary or trial period.
Can I update my application after submission?
Yes, you may update your application via the USAJOBS portal until the closing date of November 11, 2026.