Featuring: Tim Xie | Senior Mechanical Engineer, Sydney 

At SEED Engineers, no two days look alike; and that’s exactly how we like it. From early-morning planning to late-afternoon problem-solving, our engineers balance precision, creativity, and collaboration to bring ideas to life.

This week we sat down with Tim Xie, one of our Senior Mechanical Engineers, to explore what a typical day looks like behind the design screens. 

The Engineer Behind the Projects 

Tim has spent more than 13 years in mechanical engineering — though he admits with a smile, “I really don’t know how I became an engineer, but here I am.”

From large residential developments to bespoke mechanical systems, Tim brings a practical mindset and problem-solving energy to every challenge that lands on his desk. 

The Daily Routine 

Tim’s workday starts early — sometimes as early as 7 am. “I usually check my emails first, flag urgent ones, and deal with them right away. Then I follow the plan for the rest of the day.”

His mornings follow a rhythm: 5:30 am wake-up, 6 am exercise, 7 am breakfast, and 8 am laptop on + coffee in hand.

Most of the day revolves around brainstorming, design calculations, and coordination. “Problem-solving first,” he says. “Design and coordination come next.”

Tim’s favourite tools? Outlook, Bluebeam, Teams, ChatGPT, and a trusty laptop. 

Projects and Collaboration 

Tim’s current projects range from small-scale to large-scale residential developments, all mechanical in focus. Collaboration drives success. “Mostly with other engineers and architects. Clients less often, but always when needed.”

One recent project stands out:
“The client wanted to build a bathhouse inside a 50-year-old building in Sydney’s CBD. With strict façade restrictions and limited data, our SEED team had to innovate. We explored several mechanical options, balancing ventilation needs with minimal impact to the building’s exterior. The client was thrilled with the professionalism and preparation we brought to the table.”

That balance of creativity and precision is what defines engineering at SEED. 

Reflections on the Role 

Tim’s favourite part of engineering? “Problem-solving and working with people from different backgrounds.”

The toughest part? “Working with selfish people,” he jokes, but behind it lies a truth: teamwork matters.

A good day at work? Everything runs smoothly, no surprises. A great day? When solutions click and the team moves forward together. 

Life Beyond the Laptop 

When the workday ends, Tim doesn’t stop moving. He’s a marathon runner (PB 3 hours 28 mins), trail runner, hiker, camper, and this year’s challenge — learning to surf and freestyle swim.

He still follows football (Juventus FC was once his team), enjoys movies and reading, and believes in the power of simple joys: time with family, friends, and a cold beer.

Favourite food: Anything I haven’t tried yet.
Favourite quote: “In despair, seek hope; in the end, life will shine.” 

Tim’s Advice for Young Engineers 

Be patient and hardworking. Don’t worry about unpaid overtime — the learning is the reward. Keep trying new things, inside or outside your field. It’ll all pay off in the long run.

Engineering, as Tim reminds us, isn’t just about calculations — it’s about curiosity, perseverance, and designing solutions that make life a little better. 

If Tim could debunk one common misconception about engineers, it’s that they are actually a funny bunch. Humour is a big part of the team culture at SEED and something Tim thinks engineering firms are not typically known for. 

About SEED Engineers 

At SEED Engineers, we’re driven by curiosity and collaboration. Our people think beyond blueprints to create sustainable, efficient systems that work and inspire.

Because at SEED, we don’t just design for buildings, we design for people.