Definitely is a help to be an airline instructor.
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I do simulator instruction, but should mention that I started as a line pilot first, then, instructing first in classrooms, then later, in simulators and finally as line captain as well, when I was with PanAm. When PanAm got Chapter 7 bankruptcy in 1991, I got a job with another airline overseas, and got hired as management pilot (so, not subject to seniority), instructor and examiner and ended as their 747 pilot training manager. You certainly could qualify the same way.
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As far as getting qualified in simulator, well YOU can qualify for type ratings as well, if you hold pilot licences or certificates. A few years ago, I "qualified" myself in 737 simulators, yet never flew one, just so that I can always teach 737 trainees as well when they are short of instructors.
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All the best to you -
Happy contrails