Description

Private Equity Associate

Location: Chicago, IL
Start date: Summer 2026
Firm focus: Industrials, Manufacturing, Distribution | Lower Middle Market | Flexible Capital Solutions (Senior Debt, Mezzanine, Preferred Equity, Equity)

About the firm

Our client is a Chicago-based private equity firm specializing in investments across Industrials, Manufacturing, and Distribution. The firm targets lower middle‑market companies and utilizes a flexible capital toolkit including senior debt, mezzanine financing, preferred equity, and control equity. The firm partners with founder‑owned and family‑owned businesses and takes a hands‑on, operationally focused approach to long‑term value creation.

Our client is seeking a highly motivated Private Equity Associate to join its investment team beginning Summer 2026. The Associate will gain broad exposure across sourcing, diligence, modeling, transaction execution, and portfolio company support while working closely with partners, operating advisors, and management teams.

Key responsibilities

• Deal evaluation
• Sourcing and pipeline development
• Support transaction execution from diligence through close
• Portfolio company support and value creation
• Internal firm initiatives and strategic projects

Qualifications

• 1-3 years of experience in investment banking or private equity.
• Strong financial modeling, valuation, and analytical skills; proficiency with Excel and PowerPoint.
• Familiarity with capital structures, including senior debt, mezzanine, preferred equity, and LBO frameworks.
• Excellent research, writing, and communication skills with strong attention to detail.
• Ability to manage multiple workstreams and deadlines in a fast‑paced environment.
• Demonstrated interest in Industrials, Manufacturing, or Distribution sectors is preferred.
• Team‑oriented, resourceful, and professionally mature self‑starter.