Private Equity Associate Attorney

Location: Chicago, IL

Salary: $260K – $420K

Experience: 3–7 Years

A nationally recognized corporate practice is expanding its private equity platform and is seeking a driven mid-level associate to join its Chicago office. This is a rare opportunity to step into a sophisticated deal environment where private equity sponsors and portfolio companies rely on trusted counsel to execute high-value, complex transactions.

The Opportunity

You will play a central role in representing private equity funds and their portfolio companies in complex M&A transactions from inception through closing. This position offers meaningful responsibility, direct client engagement, and the ability to lead workstreams on transactions that shape industries.

What You’ll Do

• Manage and execute private equity transactions, including leveraged buyouts, add-ons, minority investments, and exits
• Lead diligence efforts and coordinate deal teams across practice areas
• Draft and negotiate definitive transaction documents
• Advise sponsors and management teams on deal structuring and risk allocation
• Take ownership of key transaction components with increasing autonomy

This role is ideal for an associate ready to elevate from execution to leadership, someone comfortable running significant portions of deals and collaborating closely with partners and clients.

What We’re Looking For

• 3–7 years of private equity and M&A experience within a law firm environment
• Demonstrated ability to manage complex transactions from start to finish
• Strong drafting, negotiation, and organizational skills
• Excellent academic credentials
• A JD is required, along with prior experience working in a law firm

Why This Role

You’ll join a well-established national private equity platform with deep market credibility and a strong pipeline of high-quality sponsor work. The culture emphasizes collaboration, professional development, and real advancement opportunities. Associates are positioned for meaningful client exposure and accelerated growth.

Compensation is highly competitive, with a base salary ranging from $260,000 to $420,000, commensurate with experience. A comprehensive benefits package includes medical, dental, vision, life, and AD&D insurance, a 401(k) savings plan, back-up childcare and eldercare support, and robust professional development resources.

This is an exceptional opportunity for a private equity associate seeking both sophisticated deal flow and long-term career momentum in Chicago.

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