Pelikan
"at least equivalent levels of training/ability but they don't ever receive any extra pay (ie. nearly all combat arm units in the Army)."
PC b@llocks mate.
More dangerous, definately.
Requiring more commitment, arguably.
More training/ability, what planet are you on?
The only comparable training/ability would be special forces, and they are paid more than aircrew.
Re the lack of jobs, actually there is massive recruiting drive worldwide at the moment including BA who specifically want military pilots, so any military aircrew mate can get a job if he wants.