What rank follows Chief Petty Officer in the U.S. Coast Guard rank structure?

The rank that follows Chief Petty Officer in the U.S. Coast Guard rank structure is Senior Chief Petty Officer. This rank is typically held by enlisted personnel who have demonstrated advanced technical skills, leadership capabilities, and have taken on greater responsibilities within their units.

A Senior Chief Petty Officer is identified by the addition of a star and an anchor to the insignia, which distinguishes them from a Chief Petty Officer, who has a simpler insignia. This progression in ranks reflects the increased level of experience and competence expected as personnel advance in their careers.

Understanding the rank structure is important for recognizing the hierarchy and planning for career advancement within the Coast Guard. The other ranks listed, such as Master Chief Petty Officer, which is a higher rank than Senior Chief, and Lieutenant Junior Grade, which is an officer rank, are positioned differently in the overall rank structure and therefore do not follow Chief Petty Officer directly. Similarly, Petty Officer First Class is a lower enlisted rank than Chief Petty Officer.