This hire guide was edited by the ZipRecruiter editorial team and created in part with the OpenAI API.
How to hire Sharepoint Migration
In today's digital-first business environment, organizations are increasingly reliant on robust collaboration and document management platforms to drive productivity and efficiency. Microsoft SharePoint has emerged as a leading enterprise solution, enabling businesses to centralize information, streamline workflows, and enhance team collaboration. However, as organizations grow, merge, or modernize their IT infrastructure, the need to migrate legacy systems and data to SharePoint becomes critical. This is where hiring the right SharePoint Migration employee becomes a strategic imperative.
SharePoint Migration is a specialized role that requires a blend of technical expertise, project management acumen, and a deep understanding of business processes. A successful migration ensures data integrity, minimal disruption to business operations, and a seamless user experience. Conversely, a poorly managed migration can result in data loss, compliance risks, and significant productivity setbacks. Therefore, selecting a qualified SharePoint Migration employee is not just about filling a technical vacancy”it is about safeguarding your organization's digital assets and future-proofing your operations.
For medium to large businesses, the stakes are even higher. The volume of data, complexity of existing systems, and the number of users involved demand a professional who can navigate technical challenges, communicate effectively with stakeholders, and deliver projects on time and within budget. This comprehensive hiring guide will walk you through every step of the process”from defining the role and identifying essential certifications to sourcing candidates, evaluating skills, and ensuring a smooth onboarding. By following these best practices, your organization can confidently hire a SharePoint Migration employee who will drive successful outcomes and support your long-term business goals.
Clearly Define the Role and Responsibilities
- Key Responsibilities: A SharePoint Migration employee is responsible for planning, executing, and managing the migration of data, documents, and workflows from legacy systems or older SharePoint versions to newer SharePoint environments”either on-premises, hybrid, or SharePoint Online (part of Microsoft 365). Their duties include assessing current infrastructure, mapping data, configuring SharePoint sites, ensuring data integrity, troubleshooting migration issues, and training end-users. They often collaborate with IT, compliance, and business units to ensure that the migration aligns with organizational objectives and regulatory requirements.
- Experience Levels: Junior SharePoint Migration employees typically have 1-3 years of experience and assist with basic migration tasks under supervision. Mid-level professionals, with 3-6 years of experience, handle more complex migrations, lead small projects, and may mentor junior staff. Senior SharePoint Migration employees, with 6+ years of experience, are responsible for architecting migration strategies, leading large-scale projects, and advising on best practices and governance. They often possess advanced knowledge of SharePoint architecture, scripting, and third-party migration tools.
- Company Fit: In medium-sized companies (50-500 employees), SharePoint Migration employees may wear multiple hats, handling both migration and ongoing SharePoint administration. They need to be adaptable and comfortable working in lean teams. In large enterprises (500+ employees), the role is often more specialized, with a focus on large-scale migrations, compliance, and integration with other enterprise systems. These organizations may require deeper expertise in security, automation, and project management, as well as experience working in highly regulated industries.
Certifications
Certifications play a pivotal role in validating a SharePoint Migration employee's expertise and commitment to professional development. Employers should prioritize candidates who hold industry-recognized certifications, as these credentials demonstrate proficiency in relevant technologies and best practices.
One of the most valuable certifications for SharePoint professionals is the Microsoft Certified: SharePoint Administrator Associate, issued by Microsoft. This certification requires candidates to pass the MS-203 exam, which covers managing SharePoint Online, configuring and managing sites, securing content, and troubleshooting. It is designed for professionals who deploy, manage, and secure SharePoint environments, making it directly relevant to migration projects.
Another highly regarded credential is the Microsoft 365 Certified: Enterprise Administrator Expert. This certification, also from Microsoft, requires passing two exams (MS-100 and MS-101) and demonstrates advanced skills in evaluating, planning, migrating, deploying, and managing Microsoft 365 services, including SharePoint Online. It is especially valuable for senior-level candidates involved in complex, enterprise-wide migrations.
For those working with hybrid or on-premises environments, the Microsoft Certified: Windows Server Hybrid Administrator Associate can be beneficial, as it covers integration between on-premises and cloud services”a common scenario in SharePoint migrations.
In addition to Microsoft-issued certifications, third-party credentials such as the ShareGate Certified Migration Expert or AvePoint Certified Professional (for those using specific migration tools) can further validate a candidate's hands-on experience with industry-leading migration platforms.
Employers should verify the authenticity of certifications by requesting digital badges or checking with the issuing organization. Certified professionals are more likely to follow best practices, avoid common pitfalls, and deliver successful migration outcomes. Furthermore, certifications often require ongoing education, ensuring that employees stay current with the latest features and security protocols in the rapidly evolving Microsoft ecosystem.
Leverage Multiple Recruitment Channels
- ZipRecruiter: ZipRecruiter stands out as an ideal platform for sourcing qualified SharePoint Migration employees due to its extensive reach, intelligent matching algorithms, and user-friendly interface. The platform allows employers to post job openings that are instantly distributed to hundreds of job boards, maximizing visibility among active and passive candidates. ZipRecruiter's AI-driven matching technology scans millions of resumes and proactively invites the most suitable candidates to apply, significantly reducing time-to-hire. For SharePoint Migration roles, where specific technical skills and certifications are crucial, ZipRecruiter's advanced filtering and screening tools help employers quickly identify candidates with the right background. The platform also offers customizable screening questions, enabling employers to assess technical proficiency and migration experience upfront. Many organizations report higher response rates and faster placements for IT roles on ZipRecruiter, making it a top choice for urgent and specialized hiring needs.
- Other Sources: In addition to ZipRecruiter, businesses should leverage internal referrals, which often yield high-quality candidates familiar with company culture and expectations. Professional networks, such as those built through industry conferences, user groups, or online forums, can connect employers with experienced SharePoint professionals who may not be actively job hunting. Industry associations related to Microsoft technologies or enterprise IT provide access to certified and vetted professionals. General job boards can supplement these efforts, but it is important to tailor job postings with clear requirements to attract the right talent. Engaging with local universities or technical training centers can also help identify emerging talent for junior roles. For senior or specialized positions, consider partnering with IT staffing agencies that have a track record of placing SharePoint experts. Combining these channels increases the likelihood of finding a candidate who not only meets technical requirements but also aligns with your organization's values and goals.
Assess Technical Skills
- Tools and Software: A proficient SharePoint Migration employee should have hands-on experience with a range of tools and technologies. Core competencies include Microsoft SharePoint (both Online and on-premises versions), Microsoft 365, and related services such as OneDrive and Teams. Familiarity with migration tools like ShareGate, Metalogix, and AvePoint is essential for efficient and secure data transfers. Knowledge of PowerShell scripting is critical for automating migration tasks and troubleshooting. Understanding of Active Directory, Azure Active Directory, and Microsoft Exchange integration is often required, especially in hybrid environments. Experience with SQL Server, Windows Server, and network protocols can be valuable for complex migrations. Additionally, candidates should be comfortable with data mapping, metadata management, and information architecture within SharePoint.
- Assessments: To evaluate technical proficiency, employers should incorporate a mix of theoretical and practical assessments. Technical interviews can include scenario-based questions that test the candidate's approach to common migration challenges, such as handling large data volumes, resolving permission issues, or ensuring compliance. Practical evaluations may involve hands-on exercises, such as migrating a sample site or scripting a PowerShell command to automate a task. Online skills assessments and technical tests can further validate knowledge of SharePoint, migration tools, and related technologies. Reviewing past project portfolios or requesting case studies can provide insight into real-world experience and problem-solving abilities. Combining these methods ensures a comprehensive evaluation of both foundational knowledge and applied skills.
Evaluate Soft Skills and Cultural Fit
- Communication: SharePoint Migration employees must excel at communicating complex technical concepts to both technical and non-technical stakeholders. They often work with cross-functional teams, including IT, compliance, HR, and business units, to gather requirements, set expectations, and provide training. Effective communication ensures that migration goals are clearly understood, potential risks are identified early, and end-users are adequately supported throughout the transition. During interviews, look for candidates who can articulate their migration approach, explain technical decisions, and adapt their communication style to different audiences.
- Problem-Solving: Migration projects frequently encounter unexpected challenges, such as data corruption, compatibility issues, or user resistance. Successful SharePoint Migration employees demonstrate strong analytical and troubleshooting skills, approaching problems methodically and creatively. During interviews, present candidates with hypothetical migration scenarios and ask how they would resolve specific issues. Look for evidence of structured problem-solving, resourcefulness, and the ability to remain calm under pressure.
- Attention to Detail: Precision is critical in SharePoint migrations, as even minor errors can lead to data loss, security breaches, or compliance violations. Candidates should exhibit meticulous attention to detail when mapping data, configuring permissions, and validating migration outcomes. To assess this trait, consider giving candidates a sample migration task with intentional errors or inconsistencies and ask them to identify and correct the issues. References from previous employers can also provide insight into the candidate's thoroughness and reliability.
Conduct Thorough Background and Reference Checks
Conducting thorough background checks is essential when hiring a SharePoint Migration employee, given the sensitive nature of the data and systems involved. Begin by verifying the candidate's employment history, focusing on roles that involved SharePoint migrations or related IT projects. Contact previous employers to confirm the candidate's responsibilities, technical skills, and contributions to migration initiatives. Ask specific questions about the scale and complexity of past projects, as well as the candidate's ability to meet deadlines and collaborate with diverse teams.
Reference checks should include both technical supervisors and business stakeholders to gain a holistic view of the candidate's performance. Inquire about the candidate's problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and communication skills. For senior roles, ask about leadership qualities and experience managing large-scale or multi-phase migrations.
Certification verification is another critical step. Request digital copies of certificates or use the issuing organization's online verification tools to ensure that credentials are current and authentic. For roles requiring access to confidential or regulated data, consider conducting criminal background checks and verifying the candidate's eligibility to work in your jurisdiction.
Finally, review the candidate's online presence, such as professional profiles or contributions to industry forums, to assess their reputation and engagement in the SharePoint community. Comprehensive due diligence reduces the risk of hiring unqualified or unsuitable candidates and helps protect your organization's data and reputation.
Offer Competitive Compensation and Benefits
- Market Rates: Compensation for SharePoint Migration employees varies based on experience, location, and project complexity. In the United States, junior SharePoint Migration professionals typically earn between $65,000 and $85,000 per year. Mid-level employees command salaries ranging from $85,000 to $110,000, while senior specialists or migration architects can earn $120,000 to $160,000 or more, especially in major metropolitan areas or highly regulated industries. Contract or project-based roles may offer higher hourly rates, reflecting the specialized nature of migration work. Employers should benchmark salaries against industry standards and adjust for local market conditions to remain competitive.
- Benefits: In addition to competitive pay, attractive benefits packages are essential for recruiting and retaining top SharePoint Migration talent. Standard offerings include health, dental, and vision insurance, retirement plans with employer matching, and paid time off. Flexible work arrangements, such as remote or hybrid options, are increasingly important, especially for IT professionals. Professional development opportunities, such as certification reimbursement, training budgets, and conference attendance, signal a commitment to employee growth and can differentiate your organization from competitors. Additional perks”such as wellness programs, technology stipends, and performance bonuses”can further enhance your value proposition. For senior roles, consider offering equity or profit-sharing incentives to attract candidates with leadership potential. A comprehensive benefits package not only supports employee well-being but also fosters loyalty and long-term engagement.
Provide Onboarding and Continuous Development
Effective onboarding is crucial for setting up your new SharePoint Migration employee for success. Begin by providing a structured orientation that covers your organization's mission, values, and IT landscape. Introduce the new hire to key stakeholders, including IT team members, business unit leaders, and end-users who will be impacted by migration projects. Assign a mentor or buddy to help the employee navigate company processes and culture during the first few weeks.
Provide access to necessary tools, systems, and documentation from day one. Clearly outline the migration projects they will be working on, including timelines, objectives, and success metrics. Schedule regular check-ins to address questions, provide feedback, and monitor progress. Encourage the new hire to participate in team meetings, knowledge-sharing sessions, and training opportunities to accelerate their integration and professional development.
For SharePoint Migration roles, hands-on training with your organization's specific SharePoint environment and migration tools is essential. Offer opportunities to shadow experienced team members or participate in pilot migrations before taking on larger projects. Foster a culture of open communication, where employees feel comfortable raising concerns or suggesting improvements. By investing in a comprehensive onboarding process, you set the stage for long-term success, higher productivity, and greater job satisfaction.
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