How can I track the profit and cash position of each job?

Start with the agreed price, approved variations and a realistic cost budget. Code materials, subcontractors, plant and labour to the same job so the report captures what was actually used. Labour costs should reflect relevant employer costs as well as basic wages, and overheads need a consistent allocation approach if you want to see the fuller margin. Compare revenue recognised for the work completed with the matching costs, using the accounting policy that applies. Then estimate the cost still needed to finish. That forecast helps identify a job whose final margin is deteriorating, even when the invoices issued so far appear profitable. Avoid counting the same cost in both direct costs and overheads.

Alongside the profit report, show invoices raised, money received, supplier payments due and expected future billing. Include deposits, payment terms, retentions and relevant VAT or CIS movements, because these can change the bank position without changing the underlying job margin in the same way. Review the forecast with the people delivering the work so delays and unapproved variations are identified early. A simple consistent report is more useful than a detailed system nobody updates. CASS can help set up job coding and reporting in your accounting tools, reconcile it to the accounts and give you a regular view of which jobs need action on costs, billing or collection.