Such referee shall receive from the county as compensation $3,600 per annum in counties having more than 500,000 inhabitants, payable from the general funds of the county not otherwise appropriated, at the same time and in the same manner and subject to the provisions of law applicable to the compensation of the judge. The county shall furnish a suitable office in the courthouse or in some other suitable place or places designated by the judge. The judge may assign to the referee from the court’s clerks and employees such clerical help as may be necessary to properly discharge the duties.