Credit Counselor - ND Mediation Service

Position: Credit Counselor 
Company: North Dakota Department of Agriculture - North Dakota Mediation Service
Location: TBD
Hiring Range: $24.00 – $27.00 per hour
Hours: Part-time temporary position, working up to 20 hours per week, as needed.

Questions about the role? Please call Madison Bodine at 701-955-0181 or email ndms@nd.gov.

Would you, or do you know of someone who would like to help North Dakota farmers and ranchers? The North Dakota Department of Agriculture seeks a Credit Counselor to assist farm and ranch families experiencing financial or credit challenges by evaluating their financial position, identifying opportunities to strengthen their operations, and developing practical long-term solutions for stability. Candidates living in central or south-central North Dakota are preferred to ensure effective service to producers in the assigned region.

A key component of this role includes supporting borrowers throughout the mediation process by preparing detailed financial analyses, operating plans, and proposals to present to creditors. This is a highly impactful role for individuals passionate about serving the agricultural community and supporting the long-term viability of North Dakota producers.

Key responsibilities Include: 

• Work one-on-one with agricultural borrowers to review financial records and assess the profitability and viability of farm or ranch operations.
• Assist clients with preparing detailed financial analyses, including balance sheets, cash flow projections, and income statements.
• Identify and evaluate options for financial restructuring, debt management, or operational adjustments.
• Coordinate with ND Mediation Service staff, lenders, and other agricultural professionals to support the mediation process.
• Collaborate with clients in developing and presenting alternative operating plans and repayment proposals for mediation.
• Assist producers with farm financial management, credit use, and long-term financial planning.
• Maintain accurate, confidential case files and documentation in compliance with NDMS policies.
• Stay informed on agricultural economics, state and federal farm programs, and lending practices.

Minimum Qualifications:

Bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Economics, Finance, Business Administration, Accounting, or a related field. Minimum of two years of experience in agricultural finance, farm management, credit analysis, or related work. Strong analytical, communication, and interpersonal skills. Ability to work effectively with diverse agricultural producers, lenders, and stakeholders. Valid driver’s license and personal vehicle required for travel within North Dakota. Reimbursement rate for your personal vehicle will be the current state rate, or a state vehicle will be provided.

Preferred Qualifications:

Certification as a Certified Credit Counselor (CCC), Accredited Financial Counselor (AFC), or Farm Financial Consultant. Demonstrated professional experience, gained within the past two years, working with North Dakota agricultural operations, agricultural lending institutions, and farm financial systems. Knowledge of farm mediation procedures and relevant state and federal agricultural programs.

Application Procedures: 

Applicants must complete the online application at www.nd.gov/careers before the closing date by 11:59 PM CT, including a resume, cover letter and college transcript(s) (official or unofficial) and Certification(s), if applicable.

Due to access of restricted information, the successful candidate will be required to complete a satisfactory criminal background check.

Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States. The Department of Agriculture does not provide sponsorships.

Applicants experiencing technical difficulties during the application process are encouraged to contact recruiter@nd.gov or call 701-328-3290. For additional information, or if you require accommodation or assistance with the application process, please contact Shelley Theisen, Human Resource Officer, at 701-328-4757 or toll-free at 1-800-242-7535.