Private Equity Associate

About the FirmA Chicago-based private equity firm with over three decades of experience investing in lower middle-market industrial companies. The firm has a narrow sector focus and a founder-friendly approach, typically entering as the first or second institutional investor and working closely with management teams to drive operational improvement and long-term value creation.About the RoleThe firm is looking to add an Associate to its investment team in Chicago. The role offers broad exposure across the investment lifecycle — from deal sourcing and diligence through to execution and portfolio company involvement. Associates work in lean deal teams alongside senior investment professionals and are given meaningful responsibility from day oneResponsibilitiesEvaluate new investment opportunities across the firm's target sectors, including engineered industrial products, industrial services, and value-added distributionBuild and maintain financial models to support investment decisions, including LBO models, valuation analyses, and scenario analysesConduct due diligence across commercial, operational, and financial dimensions, including industry research, management meetings, and third-party advisor coordinationPrepare investment committee materials and contribute to deal documentation and transaction executionSupport portfolio company initiatives and ongoing monitoring of existing investmentsAssist in sourcing and evaluating add-on acquisition opportunitiesQualifications2–4 years of experience in investment banking, private equity, or a related transactional or analytical roleStrong financial modelling and valuation capabilities; experience with LBO modelling preferredGenuine interest in industrial businesses — familiarity with sectors such as fluid power, process automation, material handling, filtration, or electrical utility components is a plusAbility to operate effectively in a lean environment with limited hierarchy and a hands-on cultureStrong written and verbal communication skills; comfortable engaging with management teams and senior stakeholdersSelf-starter who can manage multiple workstreams and move quickly without close oversightBased in or willing to relocate to Chicago; full-time in-office expected