(1) Entry into the service on the basis of open competition; and service, promotions and remuneration on the basis of merit, efficiency and fitness;

(2) Classifications of the positions in the service;

(3) The rating of candidates on the basis of publicly announced competitive examinations and the maintenance of lists of eligible candidates;

(4) Employment of candidates from the eligible lists in the highest qualified rating;

(5) Probationary periods not to exceed six (6) months;

(6) Disciplinary action, suspension or discharge of employees for cause only with the right of notice and review;

(7) Schedules of compensation and pay increases prepared by the executive director and approved by the board;

(8) Promotion on the basis of ascertained merit, seniority in service, and competitive examinations;

(9) Provision for keeping service records on all employees;

(10) Regulations for hours of work, attendance, holidays, leaves of absence and transfers; and procedures for layoffs, discharge, suspension, discipline and reinstatement;

(11) The exemption for civil service of persons employed to render professional, scientific, technical or expert service of a temporary or exceptional character; persons employed on projects paid from the proceeds of bonds issued by the authority; and persons employed for a period of less than three (3) months in any twelve-month period; and

(12) Review by the board, at the request of the employee in question and after notice and public hearing of any disciplinary action, suspension or discharge of any employee, which action, suspension or discharge may be affirmed, modified or reversed by the board. Findings of facts by the board shall not be subject to review by any court except for illegality or want of jurisdiction.