Created by the Civil Service Reform Act of 1978, it is a quasi-judicial body with three full-time members who are appointed for five-year terms by the President with the advice and consent of the Senate.

[2] The Authority adjudicates disputes arising under the Civil Service Reform Act, deciding cases concerning the negotiability of collective bargaining agreement proposals, appeals concerning unfair labor practices and representation petitions, and exceptions to grievance arbitration awards.

The Board is composed of 3 members, nominated by the President of the United States, with the advice and consent of the Senate, for a term of 5 years.

The Board is supported by a General Counsel, who is also nominated by the President of the United States, with the advice and consent of the Senate, for a term of five years.

[5] In August 2021, President Biden nominated eight-year assistant general counsel Kurt Rumsfeld to the position.