For their great upside and the opportunity to be truly innovative in investment strategy, hedge funds represent the pinnacle of employment for many finance professionals. For many jobseekers, however, the industry is a mysterious one, as employers are relatively small and do not have structured hiring programs like investment banks or mutual funds. This Vault guide takes an inside look at employers and career paths in the industry.

Landing a job at a hedge fund can be a challenge. With billions.

Careers at private equity firms (which raise funds to invest in private companies) are considered plum jobs in the finance world because of the intellectual challenge and potentially huge financial payoffs. Although private equity is a relatively young business, now there are more than 2,700 such companies worldwide. In this new Guide, Vault guide brings the scoop on the industry.

Provides an insider's perspective on what's happening in the industry, what it takes to break in and how to advance your career, with expert advice and tips for uncovering job opportunities, networking, preparing your cover letter and resume, interviewing and keeping current on industry news and trends.

Provides information on investment banking, covering the basics of financial markets, interviews, career paths, and job responsibilities.

Interested in investment management? The salaries are high, the work is intellectually challenging, and the lifestyle's (relatively) stable.

Explores nine hedge fund jobs, including accountants and auditors, hedge fund compliance professionals, hedge fund lawyers, hedge fund risk managers, and more.