What rank is classified as Chief Petty Officer?

The rank classified as Chief Petty Officer is E-7. This designation is part of the naval enlisted pay grade system, where ranks are numbered from E-1 (the lowest) to E-9 (the highest).

At the E-7 level, a Chief Petty Officer serves as a critical leader and is responsible for managing and mentoring junior sailors, as well as overseeing operations in their area of expertise. This rank signifies a significant level of experience, leadership, and technical proficiency within the Navy. Those holding the E-7 rank are expected to embody the Navy's core values and serve as a vital link between the enlisted force and the commissioned officers.

The other ranks mentioned correlate to different levels of enlisted personnel in the Navy: E-6 is identified as a Petty Officer First Class, E-8 involves roles such as Senior Chief Petty Officer, and E-9 encompasses the Master Chief Petty Officer position. Each of these ranks has specific roles and responsibilities that differ from those of a Chief Petty Officer.