The medal may be awarded after a significant achievement (such as an invention, or improvement in design, procedure, or organization) or after an extended period of time (such as a deployment or overseas tour).

Recipients are recognized at the equivalent level of the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal awarded to military personnel for similar achievement.

[1][2] The award consists of a certificate and citation signed by the activity head, the medal on a suspension ribbon, and a lapel emblem.

In the center a stacked inscription reads "Department of the Navy Civilian Service Commendation," and at the bottom is a fouled anchor resting upon a laurel wreath.

These colors are consistent with the equivalent award for military service members (the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal).