Private Equity Analyst/Associate

Chesapeake Search Partners; Maryland; On-site; USD 110,000 - 170,000; Full time

Job summary

Chesapeake Search Partners is partnering with an established private investment platform to identify a highly motivated Private Equity Associate to join its investment team. The firm focuses on acquiring and growing lower middle-market businesses in essential industries, with an emphasis on companies that generate stable cash flow and long-term value.

The role offers hands-on experience across the full investment lifecycle, working directly with senior decision-makers in a lean, entrepreneurial

Qualifications

• 2–5 years of experience in private equity, investment banking, leveraged finance, or related field.
• Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, Economics required; MBA, CFA, or CPA is a plus.
• Strong financial modeling, valuation, M&A, and due diligence experience.
• Advanced Excel skills with LBO modeling and financial statement analysis.
• Familiarity with PitchBook, Capital IQ, AlphaSense, or similar databases.

Responsibilities

• Evaluate acquisition opportunities and perform initial investment screening.
• Develop and maintain financial models, including LBO, operating, valuation, and return analyses.
• Conduct business valuations using DCF, comps, and precedent transactions.
• Participate in all acquisition phases: due diligence, financing, negotiations, closing, integration.
• Prepare investment memorandums and supporting materials for internal decisions.
• Analyze historical financial statements and operating performance.
• Coordinate with outside advisors, lenders, accountants, and legal counsel.
• Identify risks, opportunities, and value creation initiatives.
• Support portfolio company leadership with financial reporting and strategic initiatives.

Skills

Financial modeling

LBO modeling

Excel skills

Valuation analysis

Due diligence

Education

Bachelor's degree in Finance/Accounting/Economics

MBA, CFA, or CPA a plus

Tools

PitchBook

Capital IQ

AlphaSense

Job description

Chesapeake Search Partners is partnering with an established private investment platform to identify a highly motivated Private Equity Associate to join its investment team. The firm focuses on acquiring and growing lower middle-market businesses in essential industries, with an emphasis on companies that generate stable cash flow and long-term value. This is an outstanding opportunity for an investment professional seeking hands‑on experience across the entire investment lifecycle while working directly with senior decision-makers in a lean, entrepreneurial environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Evaluate acquisition opportunities and perform initial investment screening.
• Develop and maintain detailed financial models, including LBO, operating, valuation, and return analyses.
• Conduct business valuations utilizing discounted cash flow, comparable company, and precedent transaction methodologies.
• Participate in all phases of the acquisition process, including due diligence, financing, negotiations, closing, and post‑acquisition integration.
• Prepare investment memorandums, presentations, and supporting materials for internal decision‑making.
• Analyze historical financial statements and operating performance.
• Review quality of earnings reports, debt agreements, legal documentation, and other diligence materials.
• Coordinate with outside advisors, lenders, accountants, consultants, and legal counsel throughout the transaction process.
• Identify key risks, opportunities, and value creation initiatives.

Industry Research

• Perform market and industry research to identify attractive investment sectors and acquisition targets.
• Analyze competitive landscapes, consolidation opportunities, and emerging market trends.
• Build investment theses supported by qualitative and quantitative research.
• Assist portfolio company leadership with financial reporting, operating performance reviews, strategic initiatives, and acquisition opportunities.
• Monitor portfolio company performance against investment expectations and identify areas for operational improvement.

Team & Process Development

• Help improve internal investment processes, reporting templates, CRM systems, and transaction workflows.
• Contribute ideas that improve efficiency and strengthen the firm's investment platform.

Qualifications:

• 2-5 years of experience in private equity, investment banking, leveraged finance, transaction advisory, or a related field.
• Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, Economics, or a related discipline required; MBA, CFA, or CPA is a plus.
• Strong experience with financial modeling, valuation, M&A transactions, and due diligence.
• Advanced Excel skills with knowledge of LBO modeling, financial statement analysis, and capital structures.
• Familiarity with research and financial databases such as PitchBook, Capital IQ, AlphaSense, or similar platforms.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills with exceptional attention to detail.
• Self‑motivated professional who thrives in a fast‑paced environment, exercises sound judgment, and takes ownership of projects.