(a) (1) In accordance with the State budget, the Secretary shall appoint the employees that the Secretary considers necessary for the efficient administration of the Department.

(2) The Secretary shall make each appointment from a list of eligible candidates in accordance with the State Personnel and Pensions Article.

(b) Each appointee to the Department shall:

(1) be a resident of the State on the date of appointment; and

(2) have the character, education, and other qualifications established by the Secretary under this title.