Hi Mark,
If you can afford it, look at an instructor rating. Previous threads speak of some good opportunities so it is worth considering. If you go down this path look at a good school to complete your FIR- preferably with a lot of work. Although you will not earn a fortune you will accumulate those much needed hours and if you find the right school will be able to obtain your ME-CIR as well.
You may only work weekends to start with (thats how I started) but it will pick up soon enough.
Best of luck Mark and remember: Keep the shiny side up!