Trying to get in from STEM

I've just starting putting in some more serious effort into my job search these past few weeks, got a few interviews for finance jobs (market analyst, financial analyst, investment operations associate, etc.) but no offers yet. I want to potentially try and get on the IB track, but I don't know if I have the background for it. I got my BS in physics from a decently rated state university, and I am finishing up my first year in the PhD program in economics at a local uni, though I likely plan to "master out" next year once I get the requirements. I'm really interested in finance and have been reading textbooks in my free time to build up a knowledge base. In terms of work experience I have been working part-time as an analyst at a government consulting firm for almost a year now. What sort of positions should I shoot for and what should I avoid? Are there any specific certifications that I should get to help out my resume? Is D.C/NoVA. a decent place for getting into finance?