The county administrator shall have the power to, and shall, employ such personnel as may be necessary to carry out the provisions of this title, which employment shall be in accordance with the rules and regulations of the state merit system, and in accordance with personnel and administrative standards established by the department. The county administrator before qualifying shall furnish a surety bond in such amount as may be fixed by the secretary, but not less than five thousand dollars, conditioned that the administrator will faithfully account for all money and property that may come into his or her possession or control. The cost of such bond shall be an administrative expense and shall be paid by the department.