By Edward Storm
As we kick off 2026, the equity research landscape in California remains robust, fueled by the state’s concentration of tech, biotech, and financial innovation hubs like San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Newport Beach. With over 1,000 positions listed across major platforms, opportunities span buy-side and sell-side roles, focusing on sectors such as healthcare, technology, and international markets. Drawing from recent aggregated data, I’ve compiled a curated list of notable openings below. This isn’t exhaustive—job markets evolve quickly—but it highlights key roles for aspiring analysts and experienced professionals alike. Salaries often range from $89,000 to $240,000 depending on experience and firm, with many offering remote flexibility. For the latest, check sites like LinkedIn, Indeed, and specialized recruiters.
Whether you’re a fresh grad or a seasoned researcher, California’s ecosystem offers pathways into hedge funds, investment management, and boutique firms. Let’s dive into the details.
| Job Title | Company | Location | Brief Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| International Research Equity Analyst | Kayne Anderson Rudnick Investment Management | Los Angeles, CA | Conduct equity research on international and emerging market small/mid-cap stocks; requires 3+ years experience in equity markets. |
| Associate Equity Research Analyst – Healthcare | PFM Health Sciences, LP | San Francisco, CA | Support healthcare-focused equity analysis for a hedge fund; involves investment analysis and TMT sectors. |
| Research Analyst | Penrose Studios | San Francisco, CA | Perform equity research and data analysis; entry-level friendly with focus on finance projects. |
| Equity Research Associate, Biotechnology | Wedbush Securities | Los Angeles, CA | Assist in biotech sector coverage, including financial modeling and market reports; ideal for those with STEM background. |
| Equity Research Associate, Semiconductors | Wedbush Securities | Los Angeles, CA | Cover semiconductors and tech hardware; involves company valuations and industry trend analysis. |
| Investment Analyst (Equity Focus) | High Country: Private Equity Search | Los Angeles, CA | Equity research within private equity context; sourcing and analyzing investment opportunities. |
| Equity Research Associate – BioTech | William Blair | San Francisco, CA | Support biotech equity coverage; collaborative role in a global firm with California presence. |
| Associate Analyst – Biotech Equity Research | Wells Fargo | San Francisco, CA | Biotech-focused equity research; data crunching and report preparation for sell-side. |
| Hedge Fund Investment Analyst – TMT | Undisclosed (via LinkedIn) | California (Various) | Technology, Media, and Telecom equity analysis for hedge fund; remote options available. |
| Business Development Analyst – Private Equity Firm | Undisclosed (via LinkedIn) | California (Various) | Equity research supporting private equity deals; emphasis on market research and valuations. |
These roles reflect a mix of entry-level associates and mid-level analysts, with a strong emphasis on California’s biotech and tech sectors. Firms like Wedbush and Kayne Anderson are staples in LA, while San Francisco hosts powerhouses in healthcare and innovation. If you’re job hunting, tailor your resume to highlight financial modeling, sector knowledge, and tools like Excel or Bloomberg. Pro tip: Network on X (@sellsidejobs) or LinkedIn for unlisted opportunities—many firms post directly there.
Stay tuned for more updates on sell-side jobs and market trends. If you land one, drop a note!
Edward Storm is a commentator on finance, news, and employment, focusing on sell-side opportunities. Follow @sellsidejobs for real-time alerts.
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