In addition to the powers and authority, either express or implied, granted to the department by virtue of the laws of this state, the department may, in prescribing its rules of order or procedure in connection with hearings or other proceedings before the department, provide for the appointment of one or more examiners to conduct a hearing or hearings with respect to any matter properly coming before the department and to make reports and recommendations to the department with respect thereto. Any employee of the department or any other person designated by the commissioner of public lands, or the supervisor when this power is so delegated, may serve as an examiner. The department shall adopt rules governing hearings to be conducted before examiners.