Some random 747-8 info from a reliable source:

747-8 delivery schedule:
2017: 3
2018: 5
2019: 4
2020: 2

All options (14) will likely be taken on the 747-8. 777F orders also soon, it will slowly phase out the MD-11 internationally. Boeing "paper tiger" -8 sim to be shipped to ANC next year. All crews to remain in ANC. The -8 will also fly trans-Atlantic, a first for the 747 fleet.

I'll find out from HR in early January whether they've dropped the 1,000 PIC turbine requirement as is rumored...

This will be announced today. 1000 PIC will be preferred but not required.

Due to the number of FOs upgrading to CPT on this bid, it guarantees unfilled FO vacancies. From this I assume they are filling these positions based on need and training availability.

Great news, you're right. From the chief pilot hotline:

New PIC Requirements - To align our hiring processes with industry standards, we will change our current turbine PIC requirements of 1000 hours to a preferred status beginning in January, 2017. This change will better equip us in meeting our future pilot hiring needs, and it will allow us to accept applications for those who do not meet this current requirement.

As a reminder, your recommendations matter. If you know someone you think is a good pilot and is the type of person who will fit in well with the rest of our pilot group, please let us know. The recommendation form is located here on AirUPSers.com. In addition to the 300 new pilots we will be hiring, we also have flight qualified supervisor positions for those interested in additional leadership opportunities.

2017 UPS Hiring
 

Too bad the company wasn't willing to align first year pay with industry standards, too...

I called up crew planning, and they told me I was seat locked for another year. The mock bid has me being awarded 74Y FO...I guess we'll see what happens. The computer that runs the mock bid may not be programmed to look for that.

What is the "signing bonus of $40,000" listed on the APC UPS page? Was that for the contract signing? (seems so)

Absolutely yes. It has nothing to do with new hires, sorry.

Are there any ways to increase first year pay? (if no open time ban of course) ... picking up extra reserve days, etc? or no.

You can but it's kind of a waste of time for the money paid out. Best way is to fly international trips if you want a boost in pay. There was some talk about driving a uber but for the most part I don't recall anyone working 2 jobs during year 1 when I went thru. The Deuce Bigalow market is apparently pretty weak in Louisville as well....