Dear Brian -
xxx
I would urge you to apply for a F/E position with MK Cargo Airlines.
They occasionally hire 747 F/Es... Many from ZA and Mugabeland.
Your maintenance background will be an asset.
And after you finally get to be one, put all efforts to get pilot training.
The years for F/Es are quickly getting to be the past.
There are maybe 10 years left... then, only pilots will remain.
xxx
Some airlines did assist their F/Es to become pilots.
Eventually, MK's Mike Kruger will get 747-400F airplanes requiring 3 pilots.
And as Cargolux did long ago, might train former F/Es for 3rd pilot positions.
xxx
All the best to you.
Happy contrails