Which rank is associated with the lowest officer pay grade in the Navy?

The rank associated with the lowest officer pay grade in the Navy is Ensign. This rank typically represents the entry-level position for officers who have completed their commissioning program, whether through ROTC, the Naval Academy, or other means. Ensigns are at pay grade O-1, making them the starting point for all Navy officers.

It’s important to recognize that subsequent ranks, such as Lieutenant Junior Grade, Lieutenant, and Lieutenant Commander, correspond to higher pay grades (O-2, O-3, O-4, respectively). These higher ranks reflect greater experience, responsibility, and leadership roles within the Navy, along with increased compensation. Therefore, Ensigns represent the beginning of an officer's career path in the Navy and hold the lowest pay grade among commissioned officers.