Launch Your Career in Agricultural Finance with the USDA

Are you looking to combine your passion for finance with a meaningful career that supports American agriculture? The USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) is currently offering an exciting opportunity for a Loan Assistant/Specialist in Independence, Iowa. This role is a perfect stepping stone for professionals eager to enter the public sector and make a tangible difference in the lives of farmers and ranchers.

About the Farm Service Agency

The Farm Service Agency (FSA) serves as the backbone of financial support for the American agricultural community. Our mission is to provide credit, conservation, and disaster assistance to producers, ensuring the long-term viability of the farm sector. Working for the FSA means being part of a team that values integrity, diversity, and professional growth. We pride ourselves on offering a supportive, family-friendly work environment.

Job Responsibilities

As a Loan Assistant/Specialist, you will operate in a developmental capacity. You will work under the guidance of a Farm Loan Manager to learn the intricacies of federal agricultural lending. Key responsibilities include:

Conducting interviews with loan applicants to gather financial data.
Assisting in the review of loan applications to assess eligibility and credit risk.
Providing essential technical advice and credit counseling to borrowers.
Developing a deep understanding of crop production, livestock prices, and land valuation.
Participating in comprehensive on-the-job and classroom training sessions.

Requirements and Qualifications

To succeed in this role, you must possess strong analytical skills and a dedication to public service. Below is a breakdown of what we are looking for:

Level	Experience/Education Requirement
GS-5	3 years of general experience OR a Bachelor's degree in a related field.
GS-7	1 year of specialized experience at the GS-5 level OR 1 year of graduate-level education.
GS-9	1 year of specialized experience at the GS-7 level OR 2 years of graduate-level education.

General experience involves gathering facts and analyzing financial figures, while specialized experience requires specific knowledge of loan examining and servicing techniques.

Salary and Benefits

The salary range for this position is $40,736 to $80,243 per year, depending on your qualifications and grade level. Beyond the competitive pay, federal employment with the USDA offers a comprehensive benefits package that is hard to beat in the private sector:

Health Coverage: Access to a wide variety of insurance plans (Health, Dental, Vision, Life).
Work-Life Balance: Generous paid vacation and sick leave, plus federal holidays.
Future Planning: Robust retirement savings through the Federal Employees Retirement System.
Flexibility: Telework options and flexible scheduling to support your personal life.

How to Apply

Applying for a federal position requires precision. Ensure your package is complete by following these steps:

Prepare Your Resume: Keep it to exactly two pages. Highlight your work experience, education, and skills relevant to credit analysis or finance.
Gather Documents: Collect your college transcripts and any relevant veteran documentation.
Submit Online: Follow the prompts on the USAJobs link to complete your application questionnaire.
Complete Assessments: After applying, look for an email notification to complete the USA Hire Assessments. Set aside 1-2 hours to finish these in one sitting.

The role of a Loan Assistant/Specialist is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the stability of our food supply and the farmers who produce it. If you are ready to begin a rewarding career with the Department of Agriculture, we encourage you to prepare your application materials and apply today.

Why This Loan Assistant/Specialist (Agricultural) Job Matters

Shape the future of American agriculture by launching your career as a Loan Assistant with the USDA Farm Service Agency.

Loan Assistant/Specialist (Agricultural) Job Overview

The USDA Farm Service Agency is seeking a dedicated professional to join our team in Independence, Iowa. As a Loan Assistant/Specialist, you will support the Farm Loan Manager in administering critical financial programs that empower farmers and ranchers. This developmental position offers structured training through our Farm Loan Training Program, providing you with the essential skills to assess credit risk, provide financial guidance, and manage loan portfolios effectively while contributing to the stability of the agricultural sector.

Requirements for Loan Assistant/Specialist (Agricultural)

Must be a U.S. Citizen or U.S. National.
Must be registered with Selective Service (if male born after 12/31/1959).
Must pass a background investigation and fingerprint check.
Required to serve a 1-year probationary period.
Must have direct deposit for federal pay.
Must pass an E-Verify employment check.
Resume must not exceed 2 pages.

Preferred Qualifications for Loan Assistant/Specialist (Agricultural)

Academic background in finance, business administration, economics, or agricultural management.
Prior experience in commercial, bank, or mortgage loan review.
Knowledge of farm operations, land valuation, and commodity market trends.
Strong interpersonal skills and ability to provide credit counseling.
Proficiency in analyzing complex financial documentation and risk assessment.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Paid vacation and sick leave
✓Federal retirement and supplemental savings plans
✓Comprehensive health, dental, vision, and life insurance
✓Flexible work schedules and telework options
✓Flexible spending accounts
✓Long-term care insurance

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

Application Steps for Loan Assistant/Specialist (Agricultural) Job

Carefully review the entire job announcement.
Prepare a resume that is strictly 2 pages or less.
Gather your college transcripts and relevant supporting documents.
Click the 'Apply' button on USAJobs to navigate to the online application.
Complete the online questionnaire and attach required documentation.
Submit your application package by 11:59 PM (ET) on the closing date.
Monitor your email for a link to complete the required USA Hire Assessments.
Submit assessment results within the specified timeframe.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume clearly highlights your experience as it relates to the major duties.
Check for document formatting requirements; files must be under 5MB and in supported formats like PDF or Word.
Verify that your uploaded transcripts clearly show course titles and credit hours.
Save your application periodically if you need to return to it later.
Use the 'Track this application' feature in USAJobs to stay updated on your status.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this position eligible for telework?

Yes, this position is eligible for telework as determined by agency policy.

What is the training program for this role?

Selected candidates participate in the Farm Loan Training Program, which includes both on-the-job and classroom training for farm loan administration.

Are there limits on resume length?

Yes, your resume must not exceed two pages; submissions exceeding this limit will be removed from consideration.

What if I don't have agricultural experience?

*A: While agricultural knowledge is a plus, our training program is designed to bring motivated individuals with financial backgrounds up to speed on farm operations.*

Is relocation assistance offered?

*A: Recruitment or relocation incentives may be authorized based on agency needs.*

Can I update my application after submission?

*A: Yes, you can edit your application as long as the job announcement is still open.*