Research Associate (Tech-Focus)

Position Summary:

Sands Capital is seeking a motivated Research Associate (“RA”) to perform general investment research and analysis. In this role, you will assist the Sr. Research Analyst in maintaining coverage of portfolio companies and evaluating new opportunities for investment within the technology sector.

The RA is typically expected to work for 2-4 years before either being considered for internal promotion based on performance and firm needs, or leaving for external opportunities.

Work Expectations: 

The work location for this role is Sands Capital’s headquarters in Arlington, Virginia on a hybrid schedule of three days per week in-office (including Tuesdays and Wednesdays), or more as directed by your manager. The hybrid schedule is subject to change at any time.

Position Responsibilities:

The RA is expected to contribute to all aspects of the investment research process. This includes, but is not limited to:

• Building, maintaining, and updating detailed financial models and datasheets to support the investment decision-making process.
• Gathering and analyzing data from primary and secondary sources to uncover insights that add value to company and industry research.
• Drafting investment cases, research notes, and other communications that clearly convey our perspectives on companies and the industries in which they operate.
• Writing timely earnings notes following quarterly results.
• Preparing for and contributing to meetings with portfolio managers at Sands Capital, company management teams, industry experts, and others.
• Fostering a strong team dynamic by building collaborative relationships, communicating project priorities and progress, and contributing to a culture of transparency and excellence.
• Exhibiting behaviors consistent with Sands Capital’s Mission, Values, and culture.

Position Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited university, preferably in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, or a related field, with a demonstrated record of strong academic performance.
• 1-3 years of experience analyzing businesses, either in sell-side research, investment banking, consulting, or an investment management role.
• Understanding of accounting principles and financial analysis, including 3-statement modeling.
• Expertise in Excel, PowerPoint, and FactSet or Bloomberg.
• Mandarin Chinese skills (spoken and reading) preferred.
• Familiarity with Claude Code preferred.
• Self-motivated nature, analytical mindset, strategic aptitude, and a positive, “can-do” attitude.
• Genuine and demonstrable passion for business analysis/investment research.
• Superior verbal and written communication skills.

Required Behavioral Characteristics:

The following are behavioral characteristics that the firm holds in high regard and believes are critical for high performing individuals and teams at Sands Capital: 

• Having impeccable integrity.
• Exhibiting superior client service skills (both internally and externally).
• Exhibiting strong interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrating a strong work ethic in a fast-paced, professional environment.
• Operating with a high degree of initiative, self-discipline, and motivation.
• Being able to collaborate and work effectively as part of a team, while also being able to work independently with a high degree of efficiency and accuracy.
• Assuming the best of others.
• Being motivated by a job well-done.

Sands Capital’s Values:

The following are values that the firm holds in high regard and believes are critical for high-performing individuals and teams at Sands Capital:

• Integrity & Trust: Do what is right, not what is popular. Deliver on commitments.
• Client-Centered: Always act in the best interest of our clients.
• Commitment to Excellence: Strive to learn and improve. Implement best practices.
• Focus: Identify and concentrate on “what matters”.
• Long-Term Perspective: Appreciate that time allows sound decisions to demonstrate their worth. Avoid short-term thinking.
• Independent Thinking: Have the courage to develop and articulate your own convictions. Debate others openly and honestly.
• Teamwork: Collaborate to gather facts, develop perspective, build conviction, and support timely decision-making.
• Positive “Can-Do” Attitude: Demonstrate a willingness to tackle any task.
• Graciousness: Reflect kindness and courtesy at all times.
• Balance: Enjoy your work while balancing professional activities with interests beyond the firm.
• Meritocracy: Know that talent and achievement will drive your success at Sands Capital.

How to Apply:

To be considered, you must submit a resume that specifically outlines your qualifications for the position. If you wish to apply for this position, please do so via Sands Capital’s Careers page under “Professional Opportunities”. You may also scroll to “FAQs” to learn more about what you can expect before applying, to include information regarding length of process and any skills assessments that may be required. 

Apply here: https://www.sandscapital.com/careers-and-staff-benefits/

Salary and Benefits:

The compensation for this role includes a base salary range of $105,000 to $120,000 (as determined by the candidate’s professional experience and relevant knowledge, skills, and abilities), as well as a discretionary, performance-based bonus. Bonus targets may vary by position and are based on both individual achievement as well as broader firm performance.

Sands Capital offers a generous benefits package, including medical insurance (which includes a discount vision program), dental insurance, life and personal accident insurance, short- and long-term disability insurance, flexible spending accounts (medical and dependent) as well as paid stock market (NYSE) holidays and vacation, sick, and parental leave. We also have a variety of generous miscellaneous benefits, such as a medical concierge service, health and wellness coaches, personal finance support, onsite massage therapy, and more.