UniversalStarfleet

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The most junior Starfleet line rank.
It was the rank bestowed on newly-commissioned officers when they graduated from Starfleet Academy.
Ensigns typically began their careers as the most junior officers in the department of their chosen specialty.
Ensigns who had distinguished themselves in their academy class or on duty could be given posts as main-shift bridge officers (for example Ensign Harry Kim).
A typical officer spent approximately three years at the rank of ensign. (TNG: "Datalore")