Egelsbach is not a gateway simply because there's not enough airlines operating out of there (if any). However, EDDF is just up the road.
Hotspare 16 seems to have the pay reasonably well described. Assuming no catastrophic economic disaster, the rough estimate to command is fairly accurate.
A good number of us "oldies" will probably go onto the pre-retirement part time plan or just retire early.
As for airlining? Most of my recent tours have either been no airlining (yes! London gateway) or airlining Day 1 or 6. But yes, it's generally not particularly pleasant especially if you need to check a bag. (Apple AirTags or Tile are your friend).