What's the difference between an ATP and an ATPL, or is there any? I've seen job listings that state ATPL as a requirement; not sure if an FAA issued ATP would suffice?

This can be somewhat confusing, but here goes:

ATP = ATPL

ATPL stands for "Airline Transport Pilot License" and is commonly used outside of the US. We use ATP here in the states.

When job listings state ATPL or ATP, it simply doesn't make any difference. What matters is whether it's an ICAO (FAA-issued licenses are ICAO) or JAA ("Joint Aviation Authority", or European countries) ATP or ATPL license. The ad should state this.

If the overseas company requires a JAA license, it's a big problem to an FAA-certificated pilot due to conversion costs/time.

Many companies like Cathay don't require a European JAA license, so those are the types of jobs US pilots can easily seek...

one more thing...

Check out this stated minimum requirement for an A320 captain listing at www.hawaiiaviation.com:

"FAA / ICAO / JAR ATPL"

Again, the ATPL part is irrelevant (in other words, that they use "ATPL" or "ATP" does not matter).

When a US pilot sees the magical words "ICAO" (an FAA ATP is ICAO, remember?), that's the key that he too can apply. This listing has "FAA" on it, making this listing a real no-brainer.

PS: JAA (Joint Aviation Authorities) = JAR (Joint Aviation Regulation)

That makes sense now. Appreciate the reply Freight Dog.

Just wondering if anyone knows what a US pilot needs to do to convert an FAA ATP License over to an UAE pilot License? Is there just a logbook check signed off by the FAA or an examination?