welcome to the world of aircraft engineering. in my opinion you would be better off studying for your B1 or B2 from the start. (its only a few more exams than an A licence), get your experience with a UK airline, then spend your time in the US on holiday, pay rates in the US are terrible compared what can be made in the UK. for more information try a look at www airmech.co.uk
good luck
ps as a contractor you will be making more money than the pilots