on-the-ground reporter; news reporter; legman
A reporter who goes out to gather information and conduct interviews, as opposed to a desk editor or commentator.
He is an on-the-ground reporter who rushed to the scene of the incident.
News reporters flocked to the mayor's press conference.
記者 is a general term for any reporter or journalist, while 取材記者 specifically emphasizes the role of gathering material in the field.
ジャーナリスト is a broader term for a journalist, often including writers, editors, and commentators, whereas 取材記者 focuses on the act of newsgathering.
Compound of 取材 (しゅざい, 'news gathering') and 記者 (きしゃ, 'reporter').