Which position is typically responsible for signing off a sailor's PQS qualifications?

• A. LCPO
• B. CO
• C. Division officer
• D. XO

Answer: (A)

PQS sign-offs are handled by the supervisor closest to the sailor’s day-to-day work. The Leading Chief Petty Officer acts as the division’s senior enlisted leader and is the primary person responsible for tracking a sailor’s progress, coaching them through tasks, and certifying completion of PQS items within that division. This position sits in the best place to observe performance across the sailor’s duties and coordinate with the division, making them the typical signer for PQS qualifications. Higher-level officers like the commanding officer or executive officer set policy and handle broader qualifications, but they aren’t usually signing off on routine PQS tasks. The division officer can authorize some sign-offs, but the standard practice is to rely on the LCPO for PQS closures to maintain consistency and accountability.