The award is granted by the Under Secretary of Commerce for Oceans and Atmosphere, who serves concurrently as the Administrator of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

The award, which may go to an individual or a group, is presented in recognition of significant contributions to NOAA programs.

Eligible contributions must be in the areas of Equal Employment Opportunity, program management, scientific research, public service, engineering development, environmental conservation, policy development, administrative support, public affairs, and information systems.

During the board's review of the nomination the following factors are considered:[3] The NOAA Administrator's Award Medal is made of red brass with a matte finish.

[4] The ribbon is 35 millimetres (1.4 in) wide primarily of forget-me-not blue.