region, as a CX Freighter pilot all I can say is the working conditions is non-standard and lacks consistency. Freight guys get 8-11 Guaranteed days off per month and several to none "O" or soft off days off. It all depends on your position (Captain, Relief F/O, F/O) among other factors. Generally you can plan on 12-14 days off per month however, you could be home for only 8-10 if you get 2 days off in ANC and live in Toronto. Also to consider is our roster is constantly changing. Delayed/Cancelled flights occur frequently and it is not uncommon to go several weeks without an on time departure (and on time I mean within 2-3 hours of scheduled). This can make a commute difficult, as it is hard to plan. Welcome to the cargo world!
Generally guy's are hired into ANC but some have been lucky to pick up basing which have not been bidden on and went directly to LAX,JFK or ORD. Most guy's that want out of ANC get out in 1-6 months but if there is a slow down and your at the end of the hiring peak you could end up with ANC longer than anticipated. Timing is always a factor. Until last year and the purchase of more freighters, guys were stuck in ANC for approx. 2 years!
If you can't get into AC, then for a Canuck without the opportunity to work for a US major it's the next best option. I don't think 50-60K Canadian Pesos you can earn at Westjet or Canada 3000 for the first 2 years is worth it.
We fly only about 500-600 hours per year but almost as much on Duty Travel.
Starting salary is about 61K US plus your 15.5% gratuity or retirement fund.
Hope this helps, good luck!