(a) No person is eligible for appointment as an oil and gas inspector or supervising inspector unless, at the time of probationary appointment, the person: (1) Is a citizen of West Virginia, in good health and of good character, reputation and temperate habits; (2) has had at least two years actual relevant experience in the oil and gas industry: Provided, That no more than one year of the experience requirement may be satisfied by any of following: (i) A bachelor of science degree in science or engineering; (ii) an associate degree in petroleum technology; or (iii) actual relevant environmental experience including, without limitation, experience in wastewater, solid waste or reclamation, each full year of which shall be considered as a year of actual relevant experience in the oil and gas industry; and (3) has good theoretical and practical knowledge of oil and gas drilling and production methods, practices and techniques, sound safety practices and applicable water and mining laws.

(b) In order to qualify for appointment as an oil and gas inspector or supervising inspector by the secretary, an eligible applicant shall submit to a written and oral examination by the Division of Personnel within the Department of Administration and shall furnish any evidence of good health, character and other facts establishing eligibility required by the Division of Personnel. The Office of Oil and Gas shall determine the substance of the examinations administered to candidates for the positions of oil and gas inspector and supervising oil and gas inspector by the Division of Personnel. If the Division of Personnel finds after investigation and examination that an applicant: (1) Is eligible for appointment; and (2) has passed all written and oral examinations, the division shall add the applicant's name and grade to the register of qualified eligible candidates and certify its action to the secretary. No candidate's name may remain on the register for more than three years without requalifying.

(c) Every supervising oil and gas inspector shall be paid not less than $40,000 per year. Every oil and gas inspector shall be paid not less than $35,000 per year.