About the role
The Investment Intern role at First Trust Alternative Investment Research (“FT AIR”) is focused on gaining exposure and supporting all aspects of the investment due diligence efforts with respect to the firm’s alternative investment mandates. FT AIR focuses on executing fund and direct investments across the entire alternative investment market including hedge fund, private equity, venture capital, real estate, and private credit investments. The responsibilities of the Investment Intern closely mirror those of a full-time Investment Analyst, providing direct exposure to the research, due diligence, and portfolio management functions of the team.
In parallel, interns participate in a structured educational curriculum focused on the key frameworks and analytical tools used to evaluate alternative investment strategies across hedge funds, private markets, and real assets. The Investment Intern engages in detailed qualitative and quantitative analysis of a range of alternative investments and is responsible for conveying their findings effectively to the firm’s broader investment team. This role requires analytical and technical skills as well as verbal and written communication skills.
The Investment Intern role sits within the 22-person investment research team of FT AIR. Principal Responsibilities: Perform qualitative and quantitative assessments of alternative investment managers and strategies Participate in calls and meetings with existing and prospective alternative asset managers Compile and distribute formal written notes related to existing and potential investment meetings Function as a point of contact for the investment team with prospective and existing portfolio investments Perform ad hoc statistical analyses of fund risk exposures Support the creation of broader investment committee recommendations Lead the effort to maintain updated firm and fund materials with respect to existing investments Provide analytical support to evaluate existing client portfolio investment performance Responsible for maintaining and improving current investment due diligence work-flow processes Provide operational and investment support for internally managed portfolios Assist in various ad hoc research projects related to new product development Participate in the creation of market/industry commentary for firm marketing efforts Support the sourcing of new liquid and alternative investment strategies Qualifications: Rising Juniors or Seniors, academic focus within finance, investments, or accounting a plus Excellent undergraduate academic record Interest in or progress toward the CFA designation a plus Interest in understanding hedge fund, private equity, private credit, and real estate strategies Effective communicator, both written and verbal Strong grasp of statistics used in financial analysis A demonstrated high level of analytical/quantitative skill Passion for the alternative asset management industry Ability to manage simultaneous projects, often with time constraints Self-motivated and highly curious A willingness to travel both domestically and internationally up to 25% of the time Technical/Systems Skills: Proficient in: Microsoft Excel, Power Point, and Word
Experience with: Bloomberg, Morningstar, Preqin, eVestment/Pertrac, LightKeeper, Enfusion a plus First Trust Capital Management (“FTCM”) is a privately-owned alternative investment research and asset management firm that advises investment advisors, family offices, and high net worth individuals. FTCM was created on the belief that an independent firm was the best way to ensure our clients were served with their greatest interests in mind – both in terms of customized alternative investment solutions and a streamlined operational experience when investing in private and liquid alternatives. FTCM houses a specialized business unit called FT Alternative Investment Research .
This dedicated investment research team is responsible for overseeing all investment solutions and discretionary portfolios across the platform. The sole purpose of this team is to find suitable investment solutions to enhance discretionary and client portfolios. In 2025, FT AIR: Performed initial review of 500 investment strategies and opportunities Made 12 new primary fund commitments and closed on over 60 direct transactions Participated in over 25 capital introduction events and attended 15 top-tier industry conferences Investment due diligence covers all asset classes and strategies, wherein the Investment Team maintains a proprietary database of portfolio managers and all related correspondence.
Importantly, the Investment Team does not perform database screens to identify prospective portfolio managers. The vast majority of currently sourced funds and strategies have come through our extensive network and reach within the investment community as opposed to any screening process. We perform ongoing due diligence on our approved managers to ensure that are adhering to their style, process and investment mandate.
Job Type: Full-time