Ensign is the most junior commissioned officer rank save Officer Cadet, above all enlisted personnel and below Lieutenants (JG). Ensigns have only been out of the Academy for a short time, and as such have the least amount of responsibility of all officers. Ensigns generally serve in relief or assistant capacities in most departments. It is rare - but not unheard of - for a cadet at the Academy to be granted a temporary commission as an ensign. This, however, is only done in instances of truly outstanding grades. Officers typically spend around three years as an Ensign.
