Private Equity M&A Associate [Junior / Mid-level]

Overview

A rapidly expanding New York-based law firm is seeking junior to mid-level associates specializing in private equity mergers & acquisitions (M&A). This firm serves middle-market private equity sponsors and portfolio companies across diverse industries such as software, technology, industrials, business services, consumer, and healthcare sectors. Associates will engage in a wide variety of transactions including platform acquisitions, add-on acquisitions, carveouts, portfolio company deals, exits, and strategic corporate matters. The firm offers market-aligned compensation and work opportunities comparable to major law firms, but within a dynamic, entrepreneurial setting that is growing swiftly through new partners, clients, and deals.

Why This Role?

This position provides junior and mid-level associates the chance to handle complex private equity M&A work while offering extensive growth opportunities. The firm fosters close collaboration with a youthful partner team that invests in associate development and provides direct exposure to partners, sponsors, portfolio companies, and commercial aspects of deals. Candidates gain enhanced technical M&A expertise without compromising on deal quality or compensation. The role also provides access to an expanding private equity network offering long-term career paths within the firm or in funds and portfolio companies, making it a strategic move for professionals seeking versatile career options.

Key Responsibilities

• Represent middle-market private equity sponsors and portfolio companies in M&A transactions.
• Support various transaction types including platform acquisitions, add-ons, dispositions, carveouts, and exits.
• Prepare and revise key transaction documents such as purchase and merger agreements, disclosure schedules, ancillary documents, consents, and closing materials.
• Manage diligence processes, coordinate checklists, and oversee deal workflows.
• Collaborate directly with partners, senior associates, clients, opposing counsel, and specialized teams.
• Assist portfolio companies with ongoing acquisition activities and corporate governance.
• Assume increasing responsibility for transactions as experience grows.
• Develop meaningful relationships with sponsor and portfolio company clients.

Candidate Profile

• Junior to mid-level associate with experience in private equity M&A or strong general M&A background.
• Preference for candidates with sponsor-side transaction exposure.
• Excellent drafting, analytical, organizational, and communication capabilities.
• Ability to juggle multiple transaction streams in a fast-paced environment.
• Motivation to work closely with partners and take on significant responsibilities early.
• Comfortable operating within a growing, entrepreneurial law firm setting.
• Genuine interest in private equity transactions, portfolio company work, and the sponsor ecosystem.
• Strong academic qualifications and training at reputable law firms preferred.

Additional Information

This role offers sophisticated deal experience, direct client interaction, and multiple credible long-term advancement opportunities both inside the firm and externally in the broader private equity space. Compensation aligns with market standards. The platform's growth trajectory provides heightened visibility and room for early professional impact.

About Whistler Partners

Whistler Partners is a boutique legal recruiting firm dedicated to partnering with elite attorneys to facilitate carefully curated career development. Emphasizing personalized long-term career guidance, the firm selectively represents top talent and focuses on matching them with their ideal roles, earning the trust of both candidates and employers.