While some airlines are furloughing we are expanding with new routes and service. We are still hiring, a class of 12 this January, but after this month it is hard to say where are numbers are for staffing. We're looking to expand in several markets in the CONUS. Some bases take longer than others to get into something that burns Jet-A.

As for the question about loading own cargo, yes this is true. If don't like shoveling boxes then don't apply. Some bases, the pilots load/unload more than others. For example, this morning (0000-0530) I flew BUR-OAK-BUR with bank and courier work on board and going into each base I didn't even have to touch a box on either end because we had line service to load/unload. However, if you are at a base servicing UPS you might have their union loaders packing your airplane, but at your destination(s) UPS usually only sends one or two drivers and you have to help unload the freight and load it back up in the evening for the return flight.
Sometimes having to load up a whole Metro with 3,000 lbs of freight really sucks at times, but it's essential to help provide good customer service to UPS and to get the flight out on time.

I started at AMF 2.5 years ago and have never regretted coming here. Right now I'm glad that I have a job and I still really enjoy the flying. I've learned more sometimes in one flight than years of flight training.