Investment Intern

It is inspiring to work in an organization where individuals are deeply committed to the mission and values that drive our success.

We are dedicated to delivering expert pension service to Illinois public educators as they earn their promised retirement security.

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 456,000 members and had assets of $79 billion as of August 31, 2025. TRS is governed by a 15-member Board of Trustees.

Mission Statement

Delivering expert pension service to Illinois public educators as they earn their promised retirement security.

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 $79 billion in retirement assets on behalf of the System, as of August 31, 2025. The team consists of over 48 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.

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.

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 2025.

• A strong interest in finance, investments, and asset management.

• Capable of working independently and collaboratively within a team.

• Proven analytical, organizational, and communication skills.

If you thrive in a dynamic environment and enjoy collaborating with driven, enthusiastic professionals, you will find a rewarding career with us.

For Illinois job seekers:

Pay Range

$16.00 - $20.00

Compensation will be determined based on the qualifications and experience of each candidate.

Benefits
TRS is an agency of the State of Illinois. As such, full and part-time employees are eligible for the State of Illinois comprehensive benefits program which includes medical, dental and vision coverage. All employees participate in the TRS retirement pension plan and have the option to contribute to additional State of Illinois deferred compensation plans. The TRS pension plan is a reciprocal system to other state and local pension plans (SERS, SURS, IMRF, etc.)