He was a member of the Imperial Civil Service appointed in 1902 and served in Bengal and later in Bihar and Orissa Province.
During this span he held several positions including Financial Secretary to the Government of Bihar and Orissa.
[6][7] Sifton was appointed Governor of Bihar and Orissa in November 1931 and held the position from 7 April 1932.
[8] Sifton was appointed a member of the Executive Council of the Governor of Bihar and Orissa in 1927.
[10][11][12][13] Sir James married Harriet May, daughter of E. Shettle of Eye, Suffolk, on 14 August 1907.