just to point out, 80% of FI (flight instructors) do not have a current IR rating.
Yes: for a high performance rating i.e type rating, you do need a current IR rating + a current MEP rating as well.
however, at the moment its very hard to get a flying job. the last i heard of one first officer job that was being offered in january on a B737 there where over 600 people who appiled.
The more likely questions; is when did you do your last flight? how many hours have you done in the last 6 months?
yes, if you can keep it up, thats the main idea. so if you were often a job tomorrow you could fill it. but some company can take months to book you in for a type rating, i.e ryanair. you don't go for an interview and then your doing your type rating next week...
its your choice!!!!