In addition to all other duties established in Section 9-19-6 N.M. Stat. Ann., the secretary, in consultation with the chief of the New Mexico state police, shall develop a career pay system for the state police. This career pay system shall consist of steps within salary ranges based on objective criteria developed by the secretary. This career pay system shall allow an officer to progress on a career ladder with appropriate salary steps linked to a recognition of additional training, skills acquired and other meritorious performance.