andthenagain,
Valid points. If Skymark had been an option when I was contract-hunting, I would probably be there. From time to time these gigs in Japan, although they sometimes drop the PIC on type requirement (as is currently the case at Skymark), like to throw in bizarre qualification requests. For example at the time I signed on here, Skymark required a Japanese passport(!). Another one is the FDA requirement for PIC-in-Japan experience.
For me the pay vs. QOL is important. I turned down a job in China for much more money ($12,000/mo at the time, now $14K). Yes, the pay is slightly higher at Skymark, but still low for a 73 compared to China. Out of curiosity, what are the momthly hours flown at Sky on average? I don't mind making less if I'm not working 90+ hours.
Every single guy who has bailed from ANA Wings is a career contractor with no jet time. At this time Qatar and Air Hong Kong are happy to take them and they are going while the getting is good. Can't say I blame them.
For now living in Osaka works for me and my family. The job is far from perfect and we have more than our fair share of BS, but it mostly goes away once training is complete. It becomes tough for guys with families here with the weak dollar/strong yen. Ideally this is for single guys who are happy to live in-country. Quality of life is good and the job is fun and easy. That said, I would not say no to a raise.
Yoroshiku onegaishimasu!