Section 76. Notwithstanding any provision of law to the contrary no individual, other than in an emergency as heretofore set forth in this section, shall be appointed, transferred, excepting a transfer to a position with substantially identical authority, duties and responsibility, or promoted to any office or position which is subject to the federal standards for a merit system of personnel administration unless the administrator has certified such individual meets the minimum qualifications conformable with applicable federal requirements, which minimum qualifications he is hereby authorized and directed to establish for each such office or position.