Associate or Senior Associate

About Lever VC Lever VC is one of the most active venture capital investors in the global food and agriculture space. We invest in early- to mid-stage startups, backing exceptional founders disrupting every layer of the food system. With ~45 portfolio companies and our Fund II actively deploying, we lead and co-lead rounds with deep diligence across better-for-you consumer packaged goods, on-farm technology, robotics, AI-powered platforms, supply chain, food processing, novel ingredients, synthetic biology, alternative proteins and more. The Opportunity We are seeking either an Associate or Senior Associate to join our investment team in a full-cycle role with real ownership in sourcing deals, running diligence, supporting portfolio companies, and supporting the Fund's overall strategic direction. The ideal candidate is a self-starter who thrives in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial environment, is highly organized and capable of owning workflows end-to‑end, has strong interest in the food and agriculture sector, and has relevant venture capital or business experience. This is a US-based role. We strongly prefer a candidate able to work from our New York City office several days per week, although we will consider exceptional candidates outside of the greater New York area. Some domestic and occasional international travel is also required. Responsibilities Deal Sourcing & Pipeline Development – Proactively source investment opportunities through outbound outreach, ecosystem mapping, and conference engagement. Build and maintain a robust and differentiated deal pipeline across Lever VC's focus areas, including through engaging with peer investment firms, tracking emerging trends across food, ag, and adjacent technology sectors, leveraging AI and software systems, and attending industry events. Investment Diligence & Execution – Lead or support the full diligence processes, including conducting calls with target companies, market analysis, competitive landscaping, technology assessment, data room reviews, site visits, and similar. Present insights to the Partners and full investment team and prepare detailed investment memos and recommendations to the investment committee. Portfolio Company Support – Serve as a trusted resource for portfolio companies across strategy, hiring, business development, and follow‑on fundraising. Monitor portfolio performance, proactively surface risks and opportunities, and facilitate introductions within Lever VC's global network. Research, Thought Leadership & Firm Operations – Along with colleagues assist in developing sector theses, market maps, and original research that advance Lever VC's perspective on food and ag. Contribute to the Fund's external presence through occasional written content and speaking engagements. Support internal workflows including pipeline tracking, diligence processes, reporting and LP communications as needed. Qualifications Associate 2+ years in venture capital, investment banking, management consulting, or a leadership role at a high-growth startup or food sector operating company Financial modeling experience Excellent research abilities Exceptional written and verbal communication Highly organized and proactive Genuine passion for food systems, agriculture, or sustainability Senior Associate The above-listed characteristics plus: 4+ total years of experience in venture capital, investment banking, management consulting, or a leadership role at a high-growth startup or food sector operating company Track record of independently sourcing and leading due diligence on investments An active network within the food and agriculture VC ecosystem Deep sector or deal experience in the packaged foods sector is a major bonus Experience managing projects or junior team members preferred Job Fit This role is much more likely to be the right fit for you and one that you enjoy day to day if: You thrive in an entrepreneurial and self‑directed environment where you don't prefer to be told what to do but rather to identify what needs to happen and build the workflow and processes to make it happen You are an adept networker who can build connections with co‑investors, founders and domain experts You bring strong intelligence, intellectual/logical rigor, and clear communication to team investment discussions If you feel you're a good fit for this role, we look forward to receiving and reviewing your application. #J-18808-Ljbffr