The Governor shall appoint as director of the survey a geologist of established reputation. At the time of his or her initial appointment, the director must be at least thirty years of age and must be selected with special reference and consideration given to his or her administrative experience and ability and to his or her demonstrated interest in the effective and responsible management of the state geological and economic survey. The director must have a master's degree in geology or in a related field and at least three years of experience in a position of responsible charge in at least one discipline relating to the duties and responsibilities for which the director will be responsible upon assumption of the office. The director may not be a candidate for or hold any other public office, may not be a member of any political party committee and shall immediately forfeit and vacate his or her office as director in the event he or she becomes a candidate for or accepts appointment to any other public office or political party committee.

The director may employ such assistants and employees as he may deem necessary. He shall also determine the compensation of all persons employed by the survey and may remove them at pleasure.

The director may set such reasonable fees as may be necessary to recover additional costs incurred in performing geological and analytical analyses. These fees shall be deposited in the state Treasury in a special revenue account to be known as the "Geological and Analytical Services Fund". The director is hereby authorized to expend such funds, as are appropriated by the Legislature, from this fund for the purpose of defraying said costs.