Investment Intern

ABOUT TRS

Founded in 1939 by the Illinois General Assembly, the Teachers’ Retirement System of the State of Illinois (TRS) is one of the largest pension systems in the United States. We provide retirement, disability and survivor benefits to teachers, administrators and other public-school personnel employed outside the city of Chicago. The System serves over 448,000 members and had assets of $72.9 billion as of August 31, 2024. TRS is governed by a 15-member Board of Trustees.  

THE INVESTMENTS TEAM

An investments career with TRS is an opportunity to help Illinois public educators achieve their promised retirement security. The Investments team at TRS serves a critical role within TRS’ mission, as the team collectively manages and monitors over $72.9 billion in retirement assets on behalf of the System, as of August 31, 2024. The team consists of over 20 professionals that are responsible for evaluating and selecting external investment managers for the investment portfolio. Investing in a variety of strategies spanning equity, fixed income, real assets, hedge funds, and private markets asset classes, the team’s investment process includes significant qualitative and quantitative diligence.  Investment professionals meet with existing and prospective managers to evaluate manager returns, risk, and fit within the portfolio.  Manager exposures, track record, and other data are thoroughly analyzed within multiple systems throughout the investment process.

POSITION OVERVIEW

The Teachers Retirement System of Illinois (TRS) is seeking motivated and driven students who are passionate about pursuing a long-term career in the investment industry. Interns will gain hands-on experience by working closely with internal and external investment professionals, participating in various investment initiatives, and developing critical skills to succeed in the industry. This is an opportunity to work within investments for one of the largest pension systems in the country.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Support investment team initiatives across multiple asset classes
• Assist in evaluating investment opportunities and conducting market research.
• Collaborate with internal and external investment professionals to perform data analysis and develop financial models.
• Contribute to portfolio management processes by gathering and analyzing data to support investment decisions.
• Attend investment meetings, either in-person or virtually, and participate in discussions with top industry experts.
• Assist in reporting and monitoring investment performance.

SKILLS DEVELOPED

Interns will have the opportunity to develop the following skills:

• Interpersonal: Build professional relationships and communicate effectively with industry leaders and investment professionals.
• Analytical: Gain experience in data analysis and financial modeling to evaluate investments and assist in decision-making.
• Critical Thinking: Learn to assess financial information and make informed recommendations to support investment strategies.
• Teamwork: Collaborate with a high-performance investment team in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.

ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS

• Must be a current sophomore or junior as of Fall 2024.
• A strong interest in finance, investments, and asset management.
• Capable of working independently and collaboratively within a team.
• Proven analytical, organizational, and communication skills.

IDEAL CANDIDATE

We are looking for a dynamic, energetic intern who is eager to be a part of the investments team. Our ideal candidate is outgoing and intellectually curious. A team player who thrives in both independent and collaborative environments. Someone who possesses strong interpersonal skills, allowing them to build and maintain positive working relationships with colleagues. The individual should have excellent verbal and written communication skills. Someone who has a solid understanding of finance, investment principles, and financial analysis methods. Candidates should have proficiency in preparing reports, presentations, and maintaining both physical and digital records. The candidate should also be highly skilled in Microsoft Office applications, with any experience in databases being a plus.