Intern – Investment Banking

Job Description

M&A Intern – Summer 2027 – Chicago, IL (Loop) | Prairie Capital Advisors, Inc.

The Tone:
This is an internship role at Prairie Capital Advisors, Inc., located in Chicago, IL (Loop). As an employee-owned firm, Prairie Capital Advisors provides investment banking, ESOP advisory, and valuation services to middle-market organizations, built on core values of Integrity, Respect, Teamwork, and Passion. This internship offers students an in-depth look at advisory services, providing valuable skills, knowledge, and mentorship from various professionals. Interns contributing to current business needs are often considered for full-time positions upon demonstrating strong performance and potential.

The TL;DR
• Role: Internship / Early Career
• Type: Seasonal, Part-time (20-30 hours per week)
• Location: In-person, Chicago, IL
• Pay: $21–$23 hourly
• Team: Works alongside project teams, receiving support and mentorship from various professionals.
• Mission: Performs analytical and research tasks to support investment banking, ESOP advisory, and valuation services for middle-market organizations.
• Tech Stack: Excel, Word, PowerPoint

What You’ll Actually Do
• Model: Perform valuation and financial modeling tasks, including leveraged buyout, discounted cash flow, comparable public company, and precedent transaction analyses.
• Prepare: Prepare correspondence, marketing information, and presentations for senior professionals.
• Draft: Draft, edit, and organize client pitches, offering materials, and management presentations.
• Research: Research and compile market data relating to prior or future transactions.

The Must-Haves
• Background: Junior or Senior enrolled in a four-year degree program, majoring in finance, accounting, economics, or mathematics, with completed coursework in Financial Accounting, Corporate Finance, or Economics.
• Experience: Demonstrated strong interest in investment banking and valuation. Ability to work 20 to 30 hours per week in the office. Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States without requiring visa sponsorship now or in the future.
• Skills: Strong proficiency in Excel, Word, and PowerPoint. Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities. Ability to prioritize tasks, manage multiple assignments, and meet tight timelines effectively in a team environment. Strong work ethic and personal integrity.