Given that hierarchy is a ubiquitous form of organization that influences social behavior, we explored the relational dynamics of how newcomers and incumbent members negotiated and managed rank in a transient yet interdependent work setting. Our investigation focused on a specialized military base that monitors over 200,000 flights per year and is responsible for activating military aircraft in response to potential threats. We identified four themes: the omnipresence of hierarchy; how rank differences can facilitate and complicate newcomer entry; crafting hierarchical relations to advance social and task goals; and the tension of navigating changing hierarchical demands. Against the backdrop of highly formalized rank differences, squadron members described an elastic hierarchy at the base—due in large part to the process of hierarchical crafting. Vertical relationships were actively managed and shaped by higher ranking members to advance task and social goals. Despite higher ranking members’ efforts to maximize the benefits and minimize the costs of hierarchy, these shifting expectations for social behavior could result in uneasiness and ambiguity for lower ranking members. In fact, efforts to implement an elastic hierarchy may unintentionally reinforce power and status differences by highlighting the asymmetric influence wielded by higher ranking members. These findings illustrate specific ways in which rank is an integral and dynamic component of the intake process.
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