Ottergirl,
As an FO (sadly long since 22yo), I have flown with many young energetic Pursers who deliver a brilliant customer service (showing above and beyond the call) and also many 'time served' CSDs who I consider would struggle to make cheese toasties for one on the ground never mind deal with a complex airbourne issue.
Therefore, using your argument, does the CSD deserve their pay more than the Purser?
(I have also flown with some amazing CSDs too, my point is that how long you have worn the uniform is not necessarily a good indicator of performance)