Austin Luper
Fayetteville,AR
Summary
Environmental Science graduate with hands-on experience in ecological restoration, water resource management, and sustainable landscaping. Skilled in ArcGIS, data collection, and equipment operation, with a proven record of designing, maintaining, and improving public green spaces and trail systems. Recognized for combining technical expertise with conservation-focused problem solving to deliver safe, efficient, and environmentally sustainable outcomes.
Overview
10
10
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Groundskeeper IV
City of Fayetteville
Fayetteville, AR
08.2024 - Current
- Develop and execute a comprehensive maintenance plan for 50+ miles of public-use soft-surface trails.
- Collaborate with event coordinators to support over 20 community programs annually, enhancing public engagement.
- Operate heavy equipment (U17, MT100, 420F) to repair and enhance trail systems, ensuring safety and accessibility.
- Lead maintenance crews on large-scale trail system projects, optimizing team performance and project outcomes.
Whitewater Kayak Pro Staff
Ozark Mountain Trading Company
Garfield, AR
11.2021 - Current
- Cultivate strong client relationships, boosting customer retention and driving sales growth.
- Develop engaging marketing content, including blogs and social media campaigns, reaching an audience of over 5,000 followers.
Horticulturalist Assistant II
City of Fayetteville
Fayetteville, AR
08.2022 - 08.2024
- Designed public gardens utilizing native species, resulting in increased biodiversity and ecological balance.
- Installed and programmed irrigation systems, achieving reduction in water usage.
- Conducted research on plant health and disease, implementing effective mitigation strategies.
- Supported greenhouse propagation and native plant restoration, enhancing local flora.
- Managed budgets and monitored work orders to streamline operations and increase efficiency.
Landscaper
Blue Dog Farms
Fayetteville, AR
05.2015 - 08.2022
- Installed and optimized irrigation systems, significantly reducing water waste across various projects.
- Designed and executed diverse landscaping projects, incorporating stonework, sod, and ornamental plants.
- Ensured robust vegetation growth across both urban and rural sites through targeted care and maintenance.
Nursery Worker
NWA Plants
Elm Springs, AR
02.2018 - 08.2020
- Cultivated and maintained a wide range of trees, shrubs, and plants for wholesale and residential projects.
- Applied fertilizers and pesticides while adhering to environmental compliance standards.
- Enhanced soil health through the strategic use of compost and amendments.
Landscaper
Harris Landscaping
Fayetteville, AR
06.2015 - 10.2017
- Executed detailed landscape designs, expertly installing sod, stonework, and irrigation systems.
- Operated equipment with a focus on safety, ensuring the quality and efficiency of projects.
- Promoted sustainable practices by integrating drought-tolerant plantings into landscape designs.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Environmental, Soil, and Water Science
University of Arkansas
Fayetteville, ARSkills
- Technical Tools: ArcGIS MS Office Equipment Operation
- Environmental Expertise: Ecological Assessment Natural Resource Protection Water & Soil Conservation Irrigation System Design
- Professional Strengths: Team Collaboration Technical Writing Data Gathering & Analysis Attention to Detail
Certification
- CDL-A License
- Forklift Certification
- Wilderness First Aid
- Boater Education
- Hunter Education
Timeline
Groundskeeper IV
City of Fayetteville
08.2024 - Current
Horticulturalist Assistant II
City of Fayetteville
08.2022 - 08.2024
Whitewater Kayak Pro Staff
Ozark Mountain Trading Company
11.2021 - Current
Nursery Worker
NWA Plants
02.2018 - 08.2020
Landscaper
Harris Landscaping
06.2015 - 10.2017
Landscaper
Blue Dog Farms
05.2015 - 08.2022
Bachelor of Science - Environmental, Soil, and Water Science
University of Arkansas