Valuation & Returns Analyst – PE
Career Launch AI
New York, NY
Valuation & Returns Analyst – Private Equity (Entry-Level)
Career Launch AI Talent Network
Location: New York, NY (Hybrid)
Type: Full-Time
Compensation: $140,000 – $185,000+ total compensation (varies by employer)
About This Role
This Valuation & Returns Analyst – Private Equity description represents the type of early-career, valuation- and performance-focused roles featured on the Career Launch AI Private Job Board.
It is not a direct job opening with a specific employer.
Members of our platform gain access to exclusive private equity investment roles that may not appear on public job boards. Career Launch AI provides tools and support to help candidates reach hiring managers, prepare for interviews, and pursue high-caliber finance opportunities.
More information is available at careerlaunch.ai.
About the Opportunity
Lower middle-market private equity firms, growth equity investors, and institutional investment platforms within our network may seek analytically strong Valuation & Returns Analysts to support investment valuation, return analysis, and performance measurement across active portfolios and prospective investments.
Individuals in roles like this focus on determining fair value, evaluating realized and unrealized returns, and providing analytical insight that informs investment decisions, portfolio strategy, and exit timing.
The work environment is typically rigorous and detail-oriented, offering exposure to senior investment professionals, portfolio company management teams, and investment committee discussions.
Day-to-Day Responsibilities
Valuation Analysis
Support quarterly and annual valuation processes for private equity investments
Build and update valuation models using DCF, comparable company, precedent transaction, and LBO methodologies
Assess fair value in accordance with internal policies and market standards
Document assumptions, methodologies, and valuation conclusions
Returns & Performance Analysis
Analyze investment returns at the deal and portfolio level (IRR, MOIC, DPI, TVPI)
Track performance versus underwriting cases and value-creation plans
Attribute returns across operational performance, leverage, multiple expansion, and timing
Support realized and unrealized return reporting
Financial Modeling & Sensitivity Analysis
Maintain and refine operating and transaction models to support valuation and return analysis
Perform sensitivity analyses, scenario modeling, and downside case evaluations
Support exit valuation and timing analyses
Investment Committee & Reporting Support
Prepare valuation memos, performance summaries, and return analyses for investment committee and LP reporting
Clearly communicate key valuation drivers, risks, and changes over time
Respond to ad hoc analytical requests from senior investment professionals
Portfolio & Transaction Support
Collaborate with deal teams on valuation considerations during new investments and exits
Support analysis for recapitalizations, refinancings, add-on acquisitions, and exit planning
Work with portfolio company teams to gather financial data and forecasts
What Makes This Work Engaging
High exposure to valuation judgment and investment performance analysis
Direct influence on portfolio valuation and return reporting
Accelerated learning in private equity economics, value creation, and exit dynamics
Close interaction with senior investors and decision-makers
Ideal Candidate Profile
This profile reflects the competencies commonly sought by firms for roles of this type.
Education & Technical Skills
Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Economics, Accounting, Engineering, Mathematics, or related field
Strong Excel and financial modeling skills
Solid understanding of valuation methodologies, accounting, and corporate finance
Experience (Formal or Informal)
Prior internships or experience in investment banking, private equity, valuation advisory, transaction advisory, or corporate finance is beneficial
Experience with valuation models or performance analysis is a plus
Demonstrated interest in investment performance, valuation, or portfolio analysis
Soft Skills & Mindset
Exceptional attention to detail and analytical rigor
Strong judgment and ability to support valuation conclusions
Clear written and verbal communication skills
Strong ownership mentality and accountability
Ability to manage recurring reporting cycles and ad hoc requests
Coachability, curiosity, and willingness to continuously refine analytical skills
How Career Launch AI Helps Candidates Access Roles Like This
Career Launch AI is a career acceleration platform supporting candidates pursuing competitive private equity and finance roles.
AI-Powered Job Search Automation
Automated applications to a large volume of relevant roles with tailored resumes
Targeted search across private equity, growth equity, family offices, and valuation-focused roles
Recruiter & Hiring Manager Outreach
Human-led outreach campaigns to relevant recruiters and decision-makers
Support initiating warm, direct conversations rather than relying solely on job portals
Execution & Tracking Support
Streamlined systems to manage applications and outreach
End-to-end administrative support during the search process
Interview & Case Preparation
Assistance with valuation cases, return attribution exercises, and modeling reviews
Support with behavioral and technical interview readiness
Continued Support
Ongoing guidance provided throughout the hiring process
Learn More or Apply
To access roles of this kind through the Career Launch AI platform, visit:
careerlaunch.ai
Career Launch AI offers access to a curated job board, personalized outreach support, automated application tools, interview preparation, and continued assistance until placement.
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