In the Marine Corps, staff sergeants (SSgt) E-6 are classified as what?

In the Marine Corps, staff sergeants (SSgt) serve as Senior Non-Commissioned Officers (NCOs). This classification is significant because it reflects the staff sergeant's role in leadership, mentorship, and the responsibility for overseeing junior Marines. As Senior NCOs, staff sergeants are expected to have a higher level of experience and proficiency compared to junior NCOs. They are entrusted with critical tasks such as ensuring mission readiness, training, and maintaining discipline within their units. This distinction helps to clarify the hierarchy within the Marine Corps and the expectations associated with each rank.