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Acquisitions Associate Jobs (NOW HIRING)

M&A Associate - Illinois

Chicago, IL

$138K - $175K/yr

We have an incredible team of professional M&A associates, deal advisors, in-house legal counsel, marketing executives and financial analysts who work together to get the deal done. Due to our growth ...

S. and we are looking to add an M&A Associate who considers themselves a relationship builder and has vast knowledge in dealership operations. About DSMA is the world's leading Automotive dealership ...

S. and we are looking to add an M&A Associate who considers themselves a relationship builder and has vast knowledge in dealership operations. About DSMA is the world's leading Automotive dealership ...

M&A Associate

Boise, ID

$127K - $162K/yr

One of Fortune's Best Places to Work and top 50 AmLaw firm, is seeking Mergers & Acquisitions Associate Attorneys for their Denver, New York, San Francisco, and Boise offices Ideal candidates for the ...

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Acquisitions Associate information

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$23.5K

$79K

$158.5K

How much do acquisitions associate jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for acquisitions associate in the United States is $78,954.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,500.00 and $100,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges an Acquisitions Associate faces when evaluating potential investment opportunities?

Acquisitions Associates often encounter challenges such as analyzing incomplete or inconsistent financial data, accurately assessing market trends, and managing tight deadlines for deal evaluations. They must also coordinate with internal teams and external stakeholders to gather necessary information and ensure thorough due diligence. Developing the ability to balance quantitative analysis with strategic judgment is crucial for success in this role.

How much do M&A associates make?

M&A associates typically earn a base salary ranging from $70,000 to $150,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and firm size. Bonuses and performance incentives can significantly increase total compensation, often adding 20-100% to the base salary. Entry-level associates usually start at the lower end, while experienced professionals in major financial hubs earn toward the higher end.

What does an Acquisitions Associate do?

An Acquisitions Associate is responsible for identifying, evaluating, and assisting in the acquisition of properties or companies on behalf of their organization. They conduct market research, analyze financial data, prepare investment proposals, and help manage the due diligence process. Acquisitions Associates often work closely with senior team members, legal advisors, and other stakeholders to ensure successful transactions. Their role is crucial in helping companies grow and achieve their strategic objectives through targeted investments.

What do acquisition associates do?

Acquisitions associates are responsible for identifying, analyzing, and negotiating potential investment or asset acquisitions for their organization. They conduct market research, perform financial due diligence, prepare reports, and support deal execution, often using financial modeling and valuation tools. Their work helps companies expand or optimize their portfolios through strategic acquisitions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Acquisitions Associate, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Acquisitions Associate, you typically need a strong background in finance, real estate, or business, often with a relevant degree and analytical expertise. Proficiency in financial modeling software, CRM systems, and tools like Excel or Argus is commonly required. Excellent negotiation, communication, and organizational skills distinguish top performers in this role. These abilities are essential for evaluating investment opportunities, managing transactions, and building relationships that drive successful acquisitions.

What does a job in acquisitions do?

An acquisitions associate is responsible for identifying, evaluating, and negotiating the purchase of assets or companies to support a company's growth strategy. They conduct market research, perform financial analysis, and coordinate due diligence processes, often using tools like Excel and CRM systems. Strong negotiation skills and industry knowledge are essential for success in this role.

What is the difference between Acquisitions Associate vs Real Estate Analyst?

AspectAcquisitions AssociateReal Estate Analyst
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree, real estate or finance certifications often preferredBachelor's degree, finance or real estate certifications beneficial
Work EnvironmentReal estate firms, investment companies, property developmentReal estate investment firms, consulting, financial services
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in real estate acquisitions, property investment, and developmentUsed in analyzing real estate markets, investment opportunities, and property valuation

While both roles involve real estate and investment analysis, Acquisitions Associates focus on identifying and securing property investments, whereas Real Estate Analysts primarily analyze market data and property values to inform investment decisions. The roles often overlap in skills and work environment but differ in daily responsibilities and focus areas.

What is the role of an acquisition associate?

An acquisitions associate is responsible for identifying, analyzing, and negotiating potential property or asset acquisitions for a company. They conduct market research, perform financial analysis, and coordinate due diligence to support investment decisions. Strong communication skills and familiarity with real estate or financial tools are often required.
What cities are hiring for Acquisitions Associate jobs? Cities with the most Acquisitions Associate job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Acquisitions jobs? The most popular types of Acquisitions jobs are:
What states have the most Acquisitions Associate jobs? States with the most job openings for Acquisitions Associate jobs include:
Infographic showing various Acquisitions Associate job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 8% Full Time, and 89% Part Time. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $78,954 per year, or $38 per hour.

Mergers & Acquisitions Associate Attorney

Direct Counsel

New York, NY

$235K - $390K/yr

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

Corporate Mergers & Acquisitions Associate Attorney

Direct Counsel is seeking a Corporate M&A Associate to join the elite mergers & acquisitions practice of a premier global law firm.

This is an exceptional opportunity for a 2–5 year corporate associate with significant private and public company M&A experience to join a dynamic, high-growth team handling sophisticated domestic and cross-border strategic transactions.

The role offers substantial autonomy, direct deal ownership, and exposure to public and private M&A, takeover defense, and shareholder activism matters across a broad range of industries.

Locations

Boston, Massachusetts; New York, New York

Position Overview

The ideal candidate will have 2–5 years of sophisticated mergers & acquisitions experience, including meaningful responsibility running deals, managing workstreams, and handling high-level transaction execution.

This role is ideal for an associate with strong experience in:

  • Public company M&A
  • Private company acquisitions and sales
  • Strategic transactions
  • Takeover defense
  • Shareholder activism response
  • Board and governance matters
  • Deal process management
  • Market terms and negotiation strategy

The successful candidate will join a highly regarded M&A platform known for representing leading corporations, investment banks, asset managers, and financial sponsors.

Key Responsibilities
  • Lead and manage private and public company M&A transactions
  • Draft and negotiate:
    • Merger agreements
    • Purchase agreements
    • Disclosure schedules
    • Ancillary transaction documents
  • Run transaction processes and coordinate deal teams across practice groups
  • Advise boards, executives, and deal principals on corporate governance and strategic considerations
  • Support takeover defense and shareholder activism matters
  • Manage diligence, signing, closing, and post-closing workstreams
  • Coordinate with specialists across:
    • Tax
    • Finance
    • Employment
    • Regulatory
    • Antitrust
  • Build direct client relationships and contribute to business development initiatives
Qualifications
  • J.D. from an accredited law school
  • 2–5 years of significant M&A experience
  • Strong experience with:
    • Public company M&A
    • Private company M&A
    • Deal management
    • Negotiation of market terms
    • Corporate governance
  • U.S. law firm experience required
  • Outstanding academic credentials
  • Strong commercial judgment and client management skills
  • Business development-oriented mindset
  • Admission and good standing in the applicable jurisdiction required
Compensation

Base salary range: $235,000 – $390,000

Compensation will vary based on class year, experience, office location, and overall fit.

Ideal Candidate

The ideal attorney will be:

  • A strong deal quarterback
  • Comfortable taking ownership of sophisticated transactions
  • Commercially minded and business-oriented
  • Experienced in high-responsibility client-facing roles
  • Interested in public company and strategic board-side work
  • Motivated by autonomy and long-term platform growth
Why This Opportunity

This is an exceptional opportunity for a rising M&A associate seeking a premier global platform with top-tier strategic deal flow, meaningful autonomy, and exposure to activism and takeover defense work. The combination of elite sponsor and public company representation makes this especially compelling for laterals looking to accelerate into senior deal leadership.