Eric Murdock

Alumni Spotlight: Eric E. Murdock ’93

12/09/2022

It is no coincidence Eric Murdock found his way to ESF. The experience of growing up on a lake contaminated by inadequate septic systems had an enormous influence on his career path. As a student, Murdock knew he wanted to do something more than make a living—he wanted to make a lasting contribution to the community and the environment.

After graduating with a degree in environmental resources engineering (ERE), Murdock's career trajectory took him from a material testing company to a local environmental firm to an international engineering firm focused on environmental clean-up. He managed a U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) grant from the Office of Wastewater Management. As project manager for the EPA's National Community Decentralized Wastewater Demonstration Project at Skaneateles Lake, Murdock developed a viable long-term solution for wastewater infrastructure that used smaller footprints while ensuring suitable treatment. The project drew state and national attention due to the innovative systems using technology not previously seen in the United States. His alternative approach to septic systems on the Skaneateles Lake project led to changes in New York state regulations on septic systems.

After investigating various enhanced septic systems across the country and their impact on water quality, Murdock realized there was an unmet need, so he formed ONSITE Engineering. The company specializes in onsite and decentralized wastewater systems for difficult sites with a focus on lake and river waterfronts throughout New York.

Murdock finds time to give back to his industry and ESF. He is a volunteer with the New York Onsite Wastewater Training Network where he serves as vice chair and a lead environmental trainer. At ESF, he is an alumni speaker, guest instructor, and career advisor for the ERE department.

For his outstanding contributions in the field of environmental resources engineering, we proudly recognize Eric Murdock as the 2022 Graduate of Distinction in the Notable Achievement category.