Launch Your Career as an Agricultural Loan Specialist with the USDA
Are you a finance professional with a passion for supporting the backbone of the American economy? The USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) is currently hiring a Loan Specialist (Agricultural) in Franklin, Texas. This role is a unique opportunity to blend financial expertise with a mission-driven career that ensures the prosperity of our nation's farmers and ranchers.
Job Responsibilities
As a Loan Specialist, you will act as a key financial advisor in the Franklin service center. Your daily responsibilities will include:
- Financial Counseling: Providing technical advice and credit guidance to help farmers navigate complex loan structures.
- Portfolio Management: Servicing existing loan portfolios and assessing the credit risk and future repayment capacity of local operations.
- Regulatory Compliance: Ensuring all loan actions align with federal statutes, bankruptcy laws, and agricultural trade regulations.
- Appraisal & Analysis: Evaluating land value, crop production data, and livestock market trends to inform lending decisions.
- Approval Authority: Utilizing your delegated authority to approve loans for various agricultural enterprises.
Comparison: Public vs. Private Sector Agricultural Lending
| Feature | Federal Loan Specialist (FSA) | Private Commercial Bank |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Goal | Supporting agricultural sustainability | Maximizing profit margins |
| Regulatory Environment | Federal mandates & USDA policies | Market competition & shareholder goals |
| Job Stability | High (Federal Career) | Dependent on market performance |
| Mission | Public service to farmers | Client acquisition and growth |
Requirements
Candidates must meet stringent federal criteria to be considered for this role, including:
- Citizenship: Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Experience/Education: A background in finance, agricultural economics, or business management is required, along with specific experience equivalent to the GS-9 level.
- Authorization: Possession of Agricultural Loan Approval Authority is mandatory for the GS-11 grade level.
- Security: Completion of a background check and continuous vetting through the Trusted Workforce 2.0 program.
Salary Overview
The position offers a competitive salary ranging from $74,678 to $97,087 per year, commensurate with experience and the federal General Schedule (GS) pay scale.
Comprehensive Benefits
Beyond salary, the USDA offers a generous benefits package designed for work-life balance:
- Comprehensive Healthcare: Access to top-tier health, dental, and vision insurance.
- Retirement: Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) including Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) matching.
- Paid Time Off: Generous accrual of vacation (annual) and sick leave, plus 11 paid federal holidays.
- Work-Life Balance: Access to telework options and family-friendly scheduling.
Application Tips
To maximize your chances of success, ensure your application package is polished and complete:
- Keep it Brief: Your resume cannot exceed two pages. Avoid fluff and focus strictly on metrics and relevant experience.
- Verify Documentation: Ensure your transcripts clearly show course titles and credit hours. Unofficial transcripts are fine for the initial phase, but keep your official records ready.
- Mind the Deadlines: The announcement closes on November 6, 2026. Submit your package early to avoid last-minute technical issues.
This role is more than just a job; it is an opportunity to directly influence the health of Texas agriculture. If you meet the qualifications and are ready to serve, we encourage you to submit your application and join the FSA team.
Why This Loan Specialist (Agricultural) Job Matters
Shape the future of American agriculture by managing vital loan programs that support local farmers and ranchers in Texas.
Loan Specialist (Agricultural) Job Overview
The USDA Farm Service Agency is seeking a dedicated Loan Specialist to join our team in Franklin, Texas. In this pivotal role, you will assist the Farm Loan Manager in providing essential financial guidance, credit counseling, and loan administration services. This position is ideal for a financial professional looking to make a meaningful impact on the stability and growth of agricultural operations while enjoying a stable federal career with excellent benefits.
Requirements for Loan Specialist (Agricultural)
- Must be a U.S. Citizen or U.S. National.
- Males born after December 31, 1959, must be registered with the Selective Service.
- Must pass a background investigation and fingerprint check.
- Must possess Agricultural Loan Approval Authority (Mandatory for GS-11).
- Must serve a 1-year probationary period.
- Must have direct deposit for federal pay.
- Must successfully pass the E-Verify employment check.
- Must submit a Confidential Financial Disclosure Report (OGE-450) annually.
Preferred Qualifications for Loan Specialist (Agricultural)
- Comprehensive knowledge of agricultural production and financial credit principles.
- Proven experience in analyzing the solvency, credit risk, and repayment capacity of agricultural operations.
- Strong understanding of agricultural trade, income tax laws, and bankruptcy statutes.
- Demonstrated ability to perform independent loan collection activities.
- Education in finance, business administration, economics, or agricultural management.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive Federal Salary
- ✓Comprehensive Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance
- ✓Life Insurance Plans
- ✓Retirement and Supplemental Savings Plans
- ✓Paid Vacation and Sick Leave
- ✓Paid Federal Holidays
- ✓Flexible Work Schedules
- ✓Telework Opportunities
💡 How to Apply Loan Specialist (Agricultural) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Loan Specialist (Agricultural) Job
- Review the full vacancy announcement details carefully.
- Prepare a resume that does not exceed two pages.
- Gather necessary documentation, including college transcripts and relevant SF-50 forms.
- Create or update your USAJOBS account profile.
- Click the Apply Online button and complete all required questionnaires.
- Submit your application and documentation by the closing date.
- Monitor your email for a unique link to the USA Hire assessment if required.
- Complete the assessment within the designated time frame.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume is strictly two pages or less; longer resumes will result in immediate disqualification.
- Double-check that all uploaded files are in standard formats like PDF, TXT, or DOC/DOCX and are under 5MB.
- Start your USA Hire assessment as soon as you receive the notification; do not wait until the final hours.
- Tailor your resume specifically to highlight your experience with agricultural loan portfolios and financial analysis.
- Check your USAJOBS application status page frequently to ensure all documents were transferred correctly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary responsibility of this Loan Specialist position?
You will be responsible for advising loan applicants, analyzing agricultural credit risks, and assisting in the management of farm loan programs under the direction of the Farm Loan Manager.
Is Agricultural Loan Approval Authority mandatory?
Yes, for the GS-11 grade level, applicants must possess or have possessed this authority. You will need to provide proof within 7 days of a tentative job offer.
Can I work remotely?
The position is based in Franklin, Texas, but it is eligible for telework as determined by agency policy.
Job from Farm Service Agency
The Farm Service Agency (FSA) is a vital branch of the U.S. Department of Agriculture. We serve as the frontline for agricultural support, ensuring that producers have access to the credit, resources, and technical guidance they need to succeed. Working for the FSA means joining a team dedicated to the well-being of the American public and the long-term sustainability of the agricultural sector.