Corporate M&A Associate (Mid-Level) (Chicago)

The People Of: Professional Services; Illinois; On-site; USD 110,000 - 150,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive compensation

Comprehensive benefits package

Mentorship and leadership opportunities

Job summary

A top-tier law firm seeks a Mid-Level Corporate M&A Associate in Chicago to lead and support complex public and private M&A transactions. The candidate will draft and negotiate key agreements, manage due diligence, and advise clients throughout the M&A lifecycle. Minimum 4 years’ relevant experience and a J.D. are required, along with admission to the Illinois Bar. This role provides significant responsibility and offers a collaborative team culture with clear advancement opportunities.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 4 years of experience in corporate transactions, focusing on M&A.
• Demonstrated ability to draft and negotiate acquisition documentation.
• Strong understanding of the full M&A lifecycle, including diligence and closing mechanics.

Responsibilities

• Lead and support public and private M&A transactions.
• Draft and negotiate acquisition agreements and transaction documents.
• Manage due diligence processes and coordinate cross-functional teams.

Skills

M&A transactions

Negotiation

Due diligence

Corporate governance

Team collaboration

Legal writing

Education

J.D.

Admission to the Illinois Bar

Job description

Corporate M&A Associate (Mid-Level) – Chicago (Confidential Opportunity)

A top-tier global law firm is seeking a mid‑level Corporate M&A Associate to join its high‑performing Chicago‑based corporate practice. This is a compelling opportunity for an associate who thrives in complex transactional environments and is looking to take on meaningful responsibility in sophisticated M&A and private equity matters. You’ll work closely with experienced dealmakers on high‑stakes transactions, gaining hands‑on exposure from initial structuring through closing while playing a key role in client delivery and team leadership.

What You’ll Do

• Lead and support public and private M&A transactions, including private equity deals
• Draft and negotiate acquisition agreements and key transaction documents
• Manage due diligence processes and coordinate cross‑functional deal teams
• Advise clients on transaction structuring, risk allocation, and corporate governance matters
• Take ownership of deal execution from inception through closing
• Mentor and support junior associates in a collaborative team environment

What They’re Looking For

• Minimum of 4 years of experience handling sophisticated corporate transactions, with a strong focus on M&A and private equity
• Demonstrated ability to draft and negotiate complex acquisition documentation
• Strong understanding of the full M&A lifecycle, including diligence and closing mechanics
• Excellent academic credentials and superior writing skills
• High level of professionalism, strong interpersonal skills, and ability to manage a demanding workload
• Experience working collaboratively across practice groups and contributing to team development
• Admission to the Illinois Bar (or eligibility to obtain admission promptly)
• J.D. required, along with prior experience working in a law firm

Why This Opportunity Stands Out

• Work on high-value, market-leading transactions across industries
• Significant responsibility and direct client interaction at the mid-level stage
• Clear trajectory for advancement within a nationally recognized corporate practice
• Competitive compensation and a comprehensive benefits package
• Collegial, team-oriented culture that values initiative, leadership, and mentorship