I agree. Part 135 operators cannot attract applicants by lowering the mins, since they are governed by the FAR's. So.....they have to raise starting pay.

AMF starts at $2300/month, with a 10% (?) retention bonus after 12 months.

Ram Air $100 per day, $1000 after initial indoc, another $1000 after multi upgrade, then $2000 (I think) if you stay 12 months.

Air Net, $2300 a month, plus they give you $3000 if you sign on for 12 months.