CA Public Health Microbiologist trainee

Hello, I am a student at UCD and am finishing up my PhD in microbiology. I wanted to know if anyone else has pursued a career in PH Microbiology post doctorate. I’m currently running into the issue where the locations I’d like to apply to are internal applicants only. Some references have mentioned that they mainly look for lab assistants and I would be over qualified for those positions. Has anyone found a way to get into these programs? If anything, I understand I can just apply for the training in other areas.