A lot of folks have said to stay put - it is good advice. This industry is so volatile and unpredictable right now you're most likely better off where you are than risking furlough somewhere else.

Having said that, it is my understanding that Mesa has furloughed and NOT hiring. If you do some research you'll probably find that most regionals are not hiring right now. There are some who are - and don't forget the smaller regionals like Great Lakes or Cape Air.

The trend over the past several years has been that lower time folks (right at minimums) were being placed into a regional jet. Exciting for most of those folks at first, but unfortunately that has now turned into an expectation, almost an entitlement. If you land a jet with your first 121 carrier consider yourself lucky - certainly not entitled. This is the attitude a couple of others have eluded to on this thread.

If you poll 100 pilots I would venture to guess that most of them would advise starting your career in a turboprop. It's an easier transition from what you are flying now which gives you better odds for passing training and a more solid foundation for the more complex airplanes in your future.

The reality of this industry is that we are in, and will continue to be in, a highly competitive era for pilot hiring. Instead of focusing on a jet at a regional you should really be focusing on what will make you competitive in the long run. Focus on ME time and perhaps become a Gold Seal instructor. The idea is to make you as competitive as possible when the airlines start hiring again.

Good Luck!