Private Equity Associate in Chicago

Date Posted: Monday, September 22, 2025

Job Snapshot

Job Description

We are seeking a mid to senior-level associate to join our private equity practice group in Chicago.  Ideal candidates will have four 4 to 8 years of experience.

Successful candidates will work with middle-market private equity funds, independent sponsors, and family offices in leveraged buyouts and with family-owned businesses and entrepreneurs in connection with sell-side M&A transactions. Candidates must have excellent written and oral communication skills, a team-oriented mentality, and be motivated self-starters with strong law school credentials. 

In this position, you willserve as a key team member and gain hands-on experience as the responsible attorney on M&A transactions, guiding clients through complex deals from start to finish. You'll collaborate closely with colleagues across practice groups and offices, benefiting from the deep bench and broad resources of an established firm while still enjoying the collegial, tight-knit culture of a small office. We’re committed to your growth, offering structured training and increasing responsibility to match your development. With a clear path for advancement and active encouragement to participate in business development, you’ll have the opportunity to shape both your practice and your future.

Requirements:

  • J.D. from an accredited law school with strong academic credentials
  • At least four (4) years of experience practicing law in a law firm and in-house environment
  • Active law license in Illinois
  • Excellent analytical skills and business judgement
  • Demonstrated ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team

What We Offer:

  • Competitive compensation in a collegial, mid-size firm environment
  • Quality benefits, including medical, dental, vision, and retirement programs
  • One-on-one career coaching and professional development programming
  • A supportive culture centered on mentorship, advancement, and innovation

All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, age, color, sex (including pregnancy), religion, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, military status, genetic information, or any other status protected by applicable laws or regulations. GPAC (Growing People and Companies) is an award-winning search firm specializing in placing quality professionals within multiple industries across the United States since 1990. We are extremely competitive, client-focused and realize that our value is in our ability to deliver the right solutions at the right time.