M&A/Private Equity Associate

ABOUT THE ROLE Join the corporate practice of a regional law firm as a mid-level M&A and private equity associate. You will lead transactions from due diligence through closing while advising clients on ongoing corporate matters and working directly with clients and partners. WHAT YOU'LL DO - Run mergers and acquisitions transactions from initial due diligence through closing. - Draft and negotiate purchase agreements, merger agreements, financing documents, and other transactional documents. - Manage due diligence processes across transactions. - Advise on entity formations, corporate structuring, and ongoing corporate matters. - Support private equity sponsors and portfolio companies throughout their investment lifecycle. - Work closely with partners in a lean team and take on direct client-facing responsibility. WHAT WE'RE LOOKING FOR - Four to eight years of M&A and private equity transactional experience at a law firm, with the ability to run deals independently. - A Juris Doctor degree and a license to practice law in Missouri, or willingness to obtain one. - Experience with private equity-sponsored transactions, due diligence, and drafting and negotiating purchase or merger agreements. - Law firm experience managing multiple matters and client relationships. - Strong attention to detail and experience handling general corporate work alongside transactions. - Experience with debt financings, equity structuring, or cross-border transactions is useful. - United States work authorization is required; visa sponsorship is not available. COMPENSATION & BENEFITS Base salary range: $205,000 to $285,000 annually. LOCATION On-site in St. Louis, Missouri, with four days per week in the office. Chicago-based candidates with Missouri ties may also be considered.