The director may appoint a deputy director and assistant directors as shall be needed to administer the department, all of whom shall be veterans. The deputy shall have charge and general supervision of the department in the absence or disability of the director, and in case of a vacancy in the office of director, shall continue in charge of the department until a successor is appointed and qualified, or until the governor shall appoint an acting director.

Certain personnel of department exempted from state civil service law: RCW 41.06.077.