Hi
I've been researching taking up writing again this last few days as I always enjoyed it in years past, however I am finding myself a little concerned regarding the number of scam sites out there. I have no interest in working for any of these. I have a Ph.D, which I wrote myself, experience of working in both the Public Sector and also the Private Sector for the last 10 years and I also taught undergraduates whilst studying. There doesn't appear to be a niche within these companies for someone like me. At least not so far, which is why I have registered here to ask for some assistance.

I am British, graduated from a British University, and resident in Britain, and so many companies claim that people like me are who they hire, however the websites do not read as though they have even been written by someone with English as a first language. The rates also seem very low too, so I cannot see how they can be staffed with MSc. or Ph.D level writers. Or is this the Industry rate?
I haven't read this forum extensively yet, but sufficiently so far to appreciate that no-one will direct me to reputable companies. I did find one company I liked the look of, however I did not graduate in the South so that one is not an option particularly. So many sites provide an impression of credibility on first viewing, however when I look more closely at them, it is beginning to feel like peeling back the layers of an onion and finding it's not an onion inside. I've found a couple which do not appear to be located in the country which they claim, several which have been extensively criticised in forums for poor service to both writers and also students, and also a couple who don't appear to even pay their writers.
Therefore, I am beginning to wonder if I am wasting my time and efforts on this idea. There are so many dubious companies to filter through that I am beginning to doubt that I will find what I am looking for. How can it be so difficult to find a reputable company?
So, I am asking please, if there are any obvious pointers to look for when reading these websites which would speed up my research? I expected to find scams and sharp practice yes, but I did not expect to find it with such grim regularity. Is there a thread on here somewhere which I could be directed to which has key indicators to look for please which will help me tighten the search criteria?
Thank you in advance for any suggestions you have or threads you can point me to.