(a)
There is in the Resources Agency the Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, which is under the control of an executive officer known as the Director of Forestry and Fire Protection. The director is appointed by the Governor and holds office at the pleasure of the Governor. The appointment of the director is subject to confirmation by the Senate at the next regular or special session of the Legislature, and the refusal or failure of the Senate to confirm the appointment shall create a vacancy in the office. The director shall receive an annual salary as provided by Chapter 6 (commencing with Section 11550) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code.
(b)
There shall be one Deputy Director of Forestry and Fire Protection appointed by the director who shall be exempt from civil service.
(c)
There shall be one Deputy Director of Forestry and Fire Protection appointed by the director in accordance with the State Civil Service Act who shall be a registered professional forester.
(d)
The deputy directors shall have duties as assigned, from time to time, by the director, and they shall be responsible to the director for the performance of those duties.