Deal TeamAssociate

Private Equity Associate

Gain hands-on private equity experience at Dark Alpha Capital: build financial models, conduct valuations, prepare investment materials, and support full deal lifecycle in a dynamic independent sponsor environment.

Private Equity Associate

Title: Private Equity Associate

Department / Team: Deal Team

Location: Remote

Employment Type: Full-time; Non-exempt

About the Firm

We are an independent sponsor firm focused on sourcing and managing private investment opportunities. Our team partners with a broad network of debt and equity investors to fund transactions across diverse industries. We pride ourselves on fostering strong, lasting relationships and delivering high-value opportunities to our investor base.

Role Summary

The Private Equity Associate will be responsible for supporting the investment team in all aspects of deal sourcing, due diligence, financial analysis, and portfolio management. The intern will gain hands-on experience in the private equity industry, working closely with senior professionals in identifying, evaluating, and executing investment opportunities across various sectors.

Key Responsibilities

  • Support the investment team in sourcing and evaluating potential private investment opportunities across various sectors.
  • Conduct financial analysis and assist in building and maintaining financial models to evaluate potential transactions.
  • Perform valuation analysis using industry-standard methodologies such as Discounted Cash Flow (DCF), Comparable Company Analysis (CCA), and precedent transaction analysis.
  • Assist with market research, industry analysis, and competitive benchmarking to support investment theses.
  • Prepare investment materials including presentations, investment memoranda, and internal reports.
  • Develop high-quality PowerPoint presentations used in investor discussions and internal investment reviews.
  • Assist in drafting written materials including reports, memos, and investor communications.
  • Support due diligence efforts by organizing data, reviewing materials, and coordinating information requests.
  • Collaborate with senior team members to track deal pipelines and maintain organized documentation related to investment opportunities.

Qualifications

Required

  • Bachelor’s degree (completed or in progress) in Finance, Accounting, Economics, Business Administration, or a related field. Candidates from other academic backgrounds with strong quantitative or analytical skills may also be considered.
  • Strong academic performance with a typical GPA expectation of approximately 3.5 or higher (flexible depending on relevant experience or demonstrated capabilities).
  • Familiarity with financial modeling concepts including Discounted Cash Flow (DCF), Comparable Company Analysis (CCA), and precedent transaction analysis.
  • Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel, including formulas, pivot tables, and building structured financial models.
  • Strong PowerPoint and presentation skills, with the ability to prepare professional-quality investment materials.
  • Strong written communication skills and ability to prepare clear, structured reports and investment documentation.
  • High attention to detail, analytical thinking, and problem-solving ability.
  • Ability to manage multiple workstreams and operate effectively in a fast-paced environment.

Preferred

  • Coursework or practical exposure to corporate finance, mergers and acquisitions (M&A), financial modeling, valuation, accounting, or econometrics.
  • Prior internship experience in private equity, investment banking, venture capital, consulting, corporate finance, or related fields.
  • Familiarity with financial research tools, financial statements analysis, and capital markets concepts.

Skills and Competencies

  • Strong analytical and financial reasoning skills.
  • Ability to structure complex financial information into clear insights and investment perspectives.
  • Professional communication skills and the ability to contribute effectively within small, high-performing teams.
  • Attention to detail and commitment to producing accurate, high-quality work.
  • Intellectual curiosity and strong interest in private equity, investment analysis, and business strategy.
  • Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a lean investment team.

Reporting Structure and Work Environment

Reports To:
Senior Investment Team Members / Managing Director


Direct Reports:
Senior Management


Work Environment:

  • Standard office hours 9:00 am - 5:00 pm (EST)
  • Remote role, with periodic strategic syncs

Compensation

Dark Alpha Capital LLC offers a performance-based compensation structure aligned with investment outcomes. Compensation for this role follows a success fee–based model tied to the Associate’s participation in investment opportunities and contributions to deal sourcing, analysis, and execution. Additional performance-based compensation may be awarded when a signed debt or equity commitment is successfully obtained in connection with a transaction supported by the Associate. The role may also include flexible work arrangements, hands-on exposure to private equity transactions, mentorship from experienced investment professionals, and potential long-term career growth opportunities within the firm.

Equal Opportunity Statement

is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.This job description is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, or qualifications associated with the role; duties may change over time as business needs evolve.