M&A Associate

At a glance

  • Location: Chicago
  • Job type: Full Time
  • Job sector: Legal
  • Salary: $260k–$390k
  • Published: July 29, 2026
An elite global law firm is looking for an M&A Associate to join its market-leading team in Chicago.
This is an opportunity to join one of the most highly regarded M&A practices in the U.S., advising public and private companies, private equity sponsors, portfolio companies and strategic investors on some of the market’s most significant domestic and cross-border transactions.
Working alongside nationally recognised partners, you’ll advise on complex acquisitions, disposals, mergers, carve-outs, joint ventures and corporate restructurings across a broad range of industries. The team is known for handling sophisticated, high-value matters and offering associates early responsibility and direct client exposure.

The Role
You’ll play a key role across all stages of M&A transactions, including:
  • Public and private mergers and acquisitions
  • Private equity acquisitions and exits
  • Strategic corporate transactions
  • Joint ventures and minority investments
  • Corporate restructurings and reorganisations
  • Cross-border transactions
  • Due diligence, drafting and negotiating transaction documents, and managing deal execution
Working closely with partners and clients, you’ll take ownership of key workstreams while collaborating with colleagues across finance, tax, capital markets, antitrust and other specialist practice groups.
As you progress, you’ll be given increasing responsibility, opportunities to build client relationships and the chance to mentor junior associates.

About You
The firm is seeking associates in the 2nd–4th year with strong M&A experience gained at a leading law firm.

The ideal candidate will have:
  • Experience advising on complex public and private M&A transactions
  • Excellent drafting and negotiation skills
  • Strong technical and commercial judgement
  • Experience managing transactions and coordinating multiple stakeholders
  • Outstanding academic credentials
  • The ability to thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative environment
What’s on Offer?
  • Salary of $260k–$390k
  • Exposure to market-leading domestic and international transactions
  • Early responsibility and direct client contact
  • Outstanding mentoring and professional development
  • A collaborative, high-performing culture
  • The opportunity to build your career within one of the world’s leading corporate practices

Apply now

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