My copy of the Constitution seems to have left that Amendment off. Can you please point out to me where the criteria that require "the best most qualified person" be picked?
There is a world of difference between the minimum LEGAL qualifications for a job and the practical qualifications.
For example, the constitutional requirements of for assuming the office of President are quite minimal, but would we really consider someone qualified for the Presidency if they had no previous experience in the political arena? There is no legal requirement that an engineering firm hire someone who actually has an engineering background, but very few would consider such a person qualified.
Three words: Dwight David Eisenhower.
But, that being said, you are right that an engineering firm can hire anybody - but they would be limited in their legal authority to stand behind their work product.http://www.nspe.org/lc1-why.asp
- Only a licensed engineer may prepare, sign and seal, and submit engineering plans and drawings to a public authority for approval, or seal engineering work for public and private clients.
- Licensure for individuals who wish to pursue a career as a consulting engineer or a private practitioner is not something that is merely desirable; it is a legal requirement for those who are in responsible charge of work, be they principals or employees.
- State engineering boards are increasingly seeking and obtaining the authority to impose civil penalties against unlicensed individuals who unlawfully engage in the practice of engineering.
The "Constitutional qualifications" argument is a piece of childish sophistry - nothing more than a diversion from the terrain where the serious debate lies.