PRIVATE EQUITY ASSOCIATE ATTORNEY / MID-SENIOR LEVEL

Locations: San Francisco, CA | Palto Alto, CAHYBRID

A top-10 AmLaw firm is seeking a talented mid-level Associate Attorney to join its Private Equity Practice Group in San Francisco or Palo Alto. This is an excellent opportunity to work on high-profile, complex transactions alongside a distinguished team representing private equity sponsors and their portfolio companies. The role offers a flexible hybrid work arrangement and the opportunity to take on substantial client-facing responsibilities.

Candidate Profile

JD from a top-tier law school with an excellent academic record.
Active Bar Admission in California, in good standing.
4–7 years of substantive private equity or transactional mergers and acquisitions (M&A) experience.
Demonstrated experience advising private equity sponsors and their portfolio companies on leveraged buyouts, M&A, equity investments, and other complex corporate transactions.
Prior experience at an AmLaw 100 firm or within a relevant regulatory agency preferred.
Proven ability to lead and manage deal processes, negotiate complex agreements, and work closely with internal and external stakeholders.
Comfortable working independently while also collaborating within a dynamic, fast-paced deal team environment.
Soft Skills: Strong writing, analytical, and communication skills with the ability to think strategically and offer practical legal solutions.

Key Responsibilities

Transactional Counsel: Advise private equity firms and their portfolio companies on a wide range of transactional matters, from buyouts and add-on acquisitions to recapitalizations and divestitures.
Document Drafting & Negotiation: Draft, review, and negotiate complex transactional documents, including purchase agreements, investment agreements, merger agreements, and governance documents.
Client Advisory: Provide sophisticated and practical legal advice on structuring transactions, managing risk, and navigating corporate governance and compliance issues.
Cross-Functional Coordination: Collaborate with attorneys in other practice areas such as finance, tax, employment, and regulatory to ensure seamless client service.
Relationship Development: Maintain and grow strong client relationships through clear communication, responsiveness, and value-driven guidance.

Why Join Us?

This is an exceptional opportunity to join a high-performing and collegial private equity practice at a top-tier law firm. You’ll gain direct exposure to major private equity sponsors and complex deals across industries. The team values mentorship, innovation, and professional development, offering attorneys meaningful responsibility and long-term growth opportunities. Whether leading transactions or mentoring junior team members, you’ll make a significant impact.

Compensation & Benefits

Competitive Compensation: Annual base salary is expected to range from $310,000 – $420,000, depending on experience, qualifications, and market factors. Discretionary bonus opportunities are also available.
Comprehensive Benefits: Medical, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance; 401(k) plan; paid parental leave; generous vacation; professional development support; commuter benefits; and wellness programs.

Application Requirements

Interested candidates should submit a resume, law school transcript, and cover letter for consideration.

Our client is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

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