What is E-4 in the Navy?
In the United States Navy, an E-4 refers to the rank of Petty Officer Second Class. E-4 is one of the most significant promotions for an enlisted sailor, and it comes with a lot of responsibility and prestige.
Contents
The E-4 Paygrade
Before we dive deeper into the rank of Petty Officer Second Class, it’s essential to understand the E-4 paygrade. In the Navy, ranks are organized into paygrades, with each paygrade having its own set of responsibilities and benefits. E-4 is a Junior Non-Commissioned Officer (NCO) rank, which means that holders of this rank are more senior than junior enlisted sailors, but junior to senior non-commissioned officers. Here’s a breakdown of the E-4 paygrade:
- Pay Grade: E-4
- Rank: Petty Officer Second Class
- Salary: $1,938.30 – $2,434.60 per month (based on length of service and special duty pays)
- Ranking: Junior NCO rank, above PO3 and below PO1
Responsibilities of an E-4
As an E-4 in the Navy, sailors take on more significant leadership and supervisory roles within their commands. Some key responsibilities include:
- Supervising junior enlisted personnel: E-4s are responsible for guiding, training, and evaluating junior sailors, ensuring that they meet the standards expected of the Navy.
- Conducting evaluations and providing feedback: As senior enlisted sailors, E-4s are expected to assess the performance of junior personnel and provide constructive feedback to help them grow professionally.
- Implementing and enforcing policies and procedures: E-4s play a crucial role in enforcing Navy regulations, guidelines, and procedures to maintain high standards of quality and professionalism.
- Maintaining equipment and property: Petty Officer Second Classes are responsible for ensuring the upkeep and maintenance of shipboard equipment, vehicles, and other assets.
Table 1: Additional Responsibilities of an E-4
| Responsibility | Example |
|---|---|
| Supervise junior enlisted personnel | Providing guidance to new sailors, monitoring performance, and reporting misconduct |
| Conduct evaluations and provide feedback | Administering performance evaluations, conducting counseling sessions, and creating performance plans |
| Implement policies and procedures | Ensuring compliance with Navy regulations, guidelines, and protocols |
| Maintain equipment and property | Conducting inventories, performing routine maintenance, and reporting equipment damage or loss |
Career Advancement and Requirements
For sailors to promote to E-4, they must meet specific requirements, which include:
- Service requirements: Most E-4s are senior sailors with at least 3-4 years of active duty service and 18-24 months of service in their rate (job specialty).
- Ratings and endorsements: Petty Officer Second Class often hold specialized ratings (jobs) and endorsements, which are essential for specific assignments or duties.
- Knowledge and skills: E-4s possess specialized knowledge and skills acquired through formal training, work experience, and continuous self-development.
- Evaluations and recommendations: Promotion to E-4 requires excellent performance evaluations, leadership, and a demonstrated commitment to the Navy and their career.
Chart 1: Career Advancement Roadmap
| Rank | Requirements | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| PO1 (E-5) | 6 years of active duty, rate in specialization, and experience | Leadership opportunities, advanced pay and benefits, increased authority and responsibility |
| Senior Enlisted Advisor/Department Head | 9 years of active duty, strong leadership and management experience | Enhanced leadership opportunities, additional compensation and benefits |
Conclusion**
The rank of Petty Officer Second Class (E-4) is a crucial step in the career development of any Navy sailor. It marks a significant increase in responsibility, pay, and prestige, and demonstrates the individual’s commitment to serving the Navy and achieving personal excellence. As we’ve explored in this article, the E-4 paygrade comes with various responsibilities, including supervisory, administrative, and tactical roles. By understanding these roles, requirements, and benefits, sailors can chart their course for success in the United States Navy.
