Lieutenant Junior Grade

Lieutenant Junior Grade (often abbreviated to Lieutenant JG, Lt.JG or simply JG) is a military rank, the equivalent of which is used by the service organizations of many civilizations. As a traditional naval grade, Lieutenant Junior Grade is the second most junior line officer rank.

Use in Starfleet

The Starfleet rank of Lieutenant Junior Grade sits between the ranks of Ensign and Lieutenant. The rank is equivalent to the rank of First Lieutenant which is used by Starfleet's Marine Corp.

Although it is Junior Officer rank Lieutenant Junior Grades can be seen serving as Department heads on many Starfleet vessels and bases. The majority of Lieutenant Junior Grades are still considered to be developing their skills and leadership talents, because of this they often assigned to a number of different sections in their respective departments to improve their all round skill level. Despite this though many Lieutenant Junior Grades serve as specialists in their chosen field and can even serve as the Assistant Chief of their respective departments.

Advancement

Generally commissioned officers must spend at least two years at the rank of Lieutenant Junior Grade before being considered for promotion to the rank of Lieutenant. This is not always the case however as officers can be promoted earlier if the situation calls for it. Dependant on career advancement and their specialites officers can expect to spend anywhere from 2 to 6 years as a Lieutenant Junior Grade.

Notes

• Starfleet Doctors due to their extensive and extended training at the Star Fleet Medical Academy (eight years instead of four) are often assigned to their first postings in the fleet at the rank of Lieutenant Junior Grade instead of Ensign. It is important to note that this is not always the case however.