The secretary may, at such time or times as he or she may deem necessary, employ such administrative employees, inspectors, or other persons as may be necessary to properly carry out the provisions of this article. All employees of the department shall be members of the state civil service system and inspectors shall be trained to perform their assigned duties. Such inspectors and other employees as may be duly designated by the secretary shall act as the secretary’s representatives and, under the direction of the secretary, shall enforce the provisions of this article and all duly promulgated regulations and, in the discharge of official duties, shall have the right of entry into any place maintained as a nursing home.